The most significant theme of the novel is war. Several other themes such as survival, cooperation, perseverance, community, and hope have been explored very efficiently in the novel.

The most of the action in the story takes place after the nuclear attack. After that attack, the characters have to constantly face the problems. However, they continue to hope that the things will be better in near future.

Although the major theme of the novel is war, it tells of optimism in the face of it. The message given by the novel is highly relevant even today.