Fly Like an Eagle focuses on the contemporary issues of adoption and cultural diversity. As Barney admits to his adoption and decides to find out about his past, the author shows how family and friends deal with the knowledge. From Ace's immediate acceptance and curiosity, to Flo's attempts to distract him, to Nora's outrage, Murphy realistically depicts the complex emotions inherent in addressing this dramatic issue. Confronting this issue gives the novel a unique cultural depth and quality that separates it from the first two novels in the series.

As the author confronts the cultural diversity that springs up when Barney finds his roots, her keen sensitivity to these issues reflects in the characters reactions and maturation. Ace, although excited about the prospect of an Indian heritage, also fears the unknown ways of the culture, especially when Barney disappears to meet his father for the first...