how does the authuor present the themes

The theme of death is presented throughout the novel in order to illustrate to the reader that death itself is something we cannot prepare for.

Another of the novel's themes is self-discovery. The author presents this theme through the changes that occur in his characters. Miles, in particular, grows out of his shyness and learns to look beyond himself.

Green also uses the character of Miles to present the theme of guilt. Mile's guilt over leaving his family, missing Thanksgiving, and even his reaction to Alaska's death all illustrate the theme of guilt.