How can a reader identify the theme of a story?

Identifying the theme of a story involves engaging with the broader messages and lessons conveyed through characters, their actions, and the events that unfold throughout the narrative. By analyzing these elements, a reader can uncover recurring ideas or insights that express the deeper meanings intended by the author. The theme often emerges from the challenges characters face, the decisions they make, and the consequences of those decisions, which collectively highlight important truths about life, society, or human nature. This analytical approach helps to provide a more comprehensive understanding of the story, beyond surface-level details.