 For readers who do not have disabilities, experiencing a book through the eyes of someone who is disabled both fosters empathy and challenges readers to question society's connection between able-ness and intelligence.Another major theme in Draper's books, such as "Forged by Fire" and "Romiette and Julio", is race.In "Romiette and Julio", an African American girl and Hispanic boy begin dating, despite familial disapproval and threats from a local gang.