The theme of coping with loss runs throughout the book and colors every misadventure the three protagonists find themselves in. It is only through confronting the deepest losses, finding the ability to trust again, and accepting that some tragedies cannot be undone that the main characters are able to move on and find new hope in life.

All three girls have suffered significant losses: Raymie and Beverly’s fathers have both abandoned their families, and Louisiana is an orphan. Within the remaining family units, there are more subtle losses each girl suffers. Raymie’s mother is so devastated by her husband leaving that she is emotionally unavailable, leaving Raymie without her support. Beverly’s mother abuses her, so not only has Beverly lost a father whom she idolizes, but she has lost the one place where should be safe, at home with her mother. The death of Louisiana’s parents has also resulted in her losing her family home. Her granny, whom Louisiana lives with, is a wonderful lady, but they live in poverty, always keeping one step ahead of authorities whom Granny is convinced are trying to put Louisiana in an orphanage. For Granny, who has already lost her husband and one of her children, loosing Louisiana would be too much to bear.