In much the same way Nix's character Sabriel never gives up in her search for her father, Tal also continues to search and hope he will find his father alive. The need for a strong male role model in families separated by divorce is an everyday occurrence. In some ways, Tal's decisions represent the trouble a younger teen can get into without parental guidance, since in Tal's case his mother is as good as absent.

Tal's attempt at thievery opens the door to a discussion of right and wrong and extenuating circumstances. With many states enforcing a "three strikes" law, Tal's attempt, had he been caught, could be considered strike one. And since his Great-Uncle Ebbitt mentioned the possibility to him, readers need to consider the power and influence even distant family members can have on a teen.