O'Dell infuses The Black Pearl with a sense of mystery and the supernatural by placing familiar themes in an unfamiliar setting. Situated in coastal Mexico, the story unfolds in a world steeped in religion and superstition, where hope and desperation coexist. O'Dell vividly transports readers into this locale and introduces them to its rich folklore. The novel underscores the universal nature of human experience, illustrating that young people across the globe have similar dreams, character flaws, and challenges as they journey toward maturity.