* The Power of Imagination and Escapism: The story centers on Trisha, a young girl who finds solace in her love for the Boston Red Sox and their star player, Tom Gordon. When lost in the woods, Trisha uses her imagination to create a fantastical world around Tom Gordon, which helps her cope with fear and isolation. This theme explores the power of imagination, both as a source of comfort and a potential escape from reality.
* Survival and Resilience: Trisha faces the harsh realities of being lost in the wilderness. Her journey highlights the importance of self-reliance, resourcefulness, and the ability to adapt to challenging situations. This theme emphasizes the human spirit's resilience in the face of adversity.
* The Nature of Fear and Hope: The story delves into Trisha's inner struggles with fear, loneliness, and the unknown. However, it also emphasizes her hope for rescue and her determination to survive. The theme explores the interplay between fear and hope, showing how one can fuel the other.
* The Complex Relationship Between Parent and Child: Trisha's parents, particularly her mother, struggle to deal with their daughter's independence and her tendency to retreat into her own world. The story examines the dynamics of parenting, the difficulties of communication, and the importance of understanding a child's perspective.
* The Power of Nature and the Wilderness: The wilderness is a prominent character in the story, both beautiful and dangerous. Trisha's journey highlights the fragility of human life in the face of nature's power and the importance of respect for the environment.
While these are some of the major themes, The Girl Who Loved Tom Gordon also touches on themes like faith, loneliness, and the search for identity. The novel ultimately leaves the reader to grapple with the complexities of these themes and their implications for human experience.