The quote "If you work hard enough, you will do anything you want" serves as a theme to October Sky, because this story deals with the determination of a small town boy with big dreams. This quote comes from a letter his inspiration, Dr. Wernher von Braun, sent to him. This boy, Sonny, faces many obstacles in achieving his future ambitions. He works hard to overcome these obstacles. This book shows that anyone in any situation can do anything they want to if they set their mind to it.