The Running Dream

Perseverance is a constant motif throughoutthe novel. The theme is primarily embodied in Jessica, a young woman who survives a traumatic accident but at the significant cost of her leg and her sense of self. Despite the obstacles facing her, she finds the strength within herself to overcome her trials and learns more about who she truly is and what impact she can have on the world around her.

Growth and maturity are key components at work in this story. Initially, and understandably, Jessica reacts poorly and selfishly to her changed circumstances. But through her journey, she matures and begins to see the world beyond her tragedy, becoming a young woman capable of empathy and compassion for others. 

Self-confidence and self-esteem are themes dealt with realistically in the novel. Both elements are lost to Jessica after she loses her leg and feels that everything that makes her who she is has disappeared. She worries about what other people think of her, of what she looks like, of being known only by her disability. These qualities grow stronger in Jessica as she completes her quest, but she honestly acknowledges the constant struggle she will have to keep personal negativity at bay in her life.