It would be difficult to find fault with the way Ann Clark handles the social issues in this novel. The one aspect that may be considered socially sensitive is Titu's abandonment of his infant son, Cusi. Clark simply presents the fact without making a moral judgment of Titu. Those readers insisting on retribution could say that Titu's eventual death is a just punishment. Others could dwell instead—as Clark does—on the positive relationship between Cusi and his adoptive father, Chuto. As a whole, the novel is remarkably instructive in the powers of love and loyalty.