What are the motifs in Montana 1948: A Novel by Larry Watson?

Prejudice is a recurring idea in the story.

Prejudice

David notes that most people in Montana are prejudiced against the Indians of the region. This prejudice seems to be accepted without any real consideration and it takes a great deal to break through it to any reasonable level. A major example of this theme can be seen in the fact that there were many victims Frank has sexually assaulted but none of them came forward until Wesley begins working on the case. The victims, all Indians, are likely reluctant to make an accusation because the natural prejudice of the region means they probably won't be believed. Another example is seen in the fact that David recounts statements from his grandfather that indicate the adults of the family were aware that Frank had engaged in sex with several Indian girls, and that the objection seemed to be the fact that the young women were Indian.