What theme is reinforced by Lily and Zach's cross-racial relationship?

• A. It shows that boundaries cannot be crossed
• B. The possibility of friendship and love across racial boundaries
• C. It causes inevitable conflict
• D. It demonstrates that relationships must stay within one race

Answer: (B)

The idea being tested is that relationships can cross racial lines and still be meaningful. Lily and Zach’s bond shows that friendship—and even a potential romance—can develop across racial boundaries when people treat each other as individuals with feelings and humanity. Their connection challenges the town’s rigid segregation and offers a hopeful view that understanding, empathy, and genuine care can bridge divides, even in a society that tries to keep people apart. This makes the theme about the possibility of friendship and love across racial boundaries the best fit. The other options misstate the takeaway: the story doesn’t argue that boundaries can’t be crossed, that conflict is inevitable, or that relationships must stay within one race.