Community
The main theme portrayed in the novel is the theme of community. Beartown is a small town with a close-knit community where everyone knows everyone. The town is on its deathbed and the only hope they have is the ice hockey team. It could be said that the success of the hockey team equates to the town’s survival, so it is the main focus of the entire community. The conflict in the novel arises when this sense of community is threatened by the survival of an individual.
Unfairness and toxicity
When Maya comes forward with the truth of what happened with Kevin, the entire community is set against her, demonizing her and uplifting their star hockey player. This is not only because she threatened the survival of the town by coming out with the truth, but also because she is a woman, and the masculine toxicity that comes with the hockey culture is prevalent. The unfairness of the treatment of Maya by the community is a reflection of the community as a whole.
Parenthood
The novel shows many types of parenthood and the meaning of being a parent. Maya’s parents are supportive of her after she comes out with the truth about what happened, indicating that her wellbeing comes first. Kevin’s father also shows support for his son, but his is on a toxic side, with supporting his son instead of criticizing his vile acts he enables his toxic behavior. Amat’s mother, Fatima, is a representation of a healthy parental guidance. She criticizes her son for succumbing under pressure and not wanting to reveal the truth, and urges him to do so, which represents a healthy relationship and healthy parental guidance.
