What is the theme in True Believer by Virginia Euwer Wolff?

Much of the novel deals with the theme of appearances versus reality, particularly as it pertains to the people in LaVaughn's life. LaVaughn grows up in the projects, where those outside her community, and even those within it, make harsh judgments based on their perceptions of the area. For example, no one within the community, and many outside of it, believe that the children have futures off the streets.