Why/how is theme important to understand the book Eyes of the Emperor written by Graham Salisbury?

Keep in mind here that theme means a
core subject or main idea of the book.  This particular novel, as a work of young adult
fiction, draws on a couple of universal social and historical
themes.

The book is similar to Snow Falling on
Cedars (Gutterson) and All Quiet on the Western Front in
its realistic portrayal of political and historical events/realities which shed a
negative light both on our countries government, and the institution of
war.

Some themes which contributed to this negativity in
Eyes of the Emperor
include:

• The a graphic focus on the
  prejudice which exists in America's history (specifically here, for Japanese American
  soldiers in WW2).


• Human destruction (emotional and
  physical) as a result of the military.


• The struggle to
  maintain a sense of pride and basic humanity in the eyes of adversity and
  prejudice.

Some of the more positive themes
which are also present in the book
include:

• Comaraderie and relationships which are
  built only through enduring a similar struggle.


• The
  growth and change which occurs as the result of overcoming adversity and
  challenges.