Space Case

One of the most central themes to Space Case is the ability to find creative solutions to problems. This theme is reflective of the young adult novel genre as well as common in mystery novels; protagonists have to challenge themselves to be innovative in order to resolve conflicts and discover new ideas or clues. Each of the adolescent characters in Space Case comes up with inventive ways to address problems they face, and their persistence is what allows them to resolve interpersonal conflicts and the larger mystery of Dr. Holtz’s death.

Though Roddy and Kira both overcome several different issues, Dash is primarily characterized as the person who has to find the most creative solutions to his problems. The need for creativity is illustrated mostly in scenes where Dash evades violence in order to stand up for what is right. In one of the first scenes where this theme emerges, Dash walks in on the Sjoberg siblings bullying Roddy in the rec room. Using his quick wits, Dash moves more skillfully through the low gravity environment in order to beat Patton and Lily at their own game. Dash not only retrieves Roddy’s goggles but also causes the siblings to crash together, effectively using their own bodies against them.