O'Dell's novels are often concerned with the place of women in society. Sacagawea is another of his female characters who exhibits an ability to exert influence over her world, rather than remain in the shadow of masculine dominance. Although her husband Charbonneau is hired as the guide and interpreter for the expedition, it is the advice and guidance of Sacagawea that the expedition leaders come to trust and value. The feminist theme of the novel is clear as Sacagawea proves to be the equal of the expedition members. Her commitment to the expedition and its success motivates her to endure the hardships of the trail and to ignore those who would reduce her to a secondary role.

The loyalty Sacagawea shows for her tribe is also of social value. Remembering the words of the black man, Ben York, who told her that living in the white...