Craven presents the plight of the Native American with great sensitivity. Her narrative reflects a deep insight into, and an abiding respect for, the Kwakiutl. She argues that all North American white people must share in the guilt for white society's mistreatment of Native Americans, but she urges that this guilt be used constructively to understand and help salvage what remains of Native American culture.

I Heard the Owl Call My Name emphasizes how important it is for people to understand and accept the ways of different cultures, different religions, and even different species found in nature. It shows that seemingly irreconcilable differences can also be resolved by finding a creative compromise, or "bridge building."