The idea of self-acceptance is the significant factor in the "coming-of-age" theme. Throughout Truman Capote's semi-biographical novel, Joel is on a journey to accept his homosexuality.

After his mother passes away, Joel moves to Mississippi to live with a father he does not know. He is introduced to a cast of characters and, through each one, learns more about himself. It is a story about the growth of Joel and his search for love and meaning. Joel is affected with learning that other voices need to be heard and other rooms need to be visited in order to find understanding in this world. Each of us has a story that deserves an ending of reconciliation within ourselves.

The "coming-of-age" theme is so significant because after all he has experienced on Skully's Landing, Joel matures and makes peace with his own identity.