What is the theme in "Montana 1948"?

A number of themes are found in "Montana 1948." Some themes include justice versus loyalty, the consequences of the abuse of power, the collapse of family structures, race relations and coming of age.

"Montana 1948" is a coming-of-age tale in which a 12-year-old boy named David is forced to grow up quickly after witnessing disturbing events. Recounting events 40 years later, he describes his transition from a naive boy who believed in people's goodness to a worldly, wise man who learns difficult adult themes, such as the racism against whites by Native Americans, the use of power to commit heinous acts like rape and murder and having to make difficult choices to uphold the law over family loyalty.