Who here understands what really happens in Robert Cormiers book I am the Cheese?
Masterplots II: Juvenile and Young Adult Fiction Series © 1991 by Salem Press, Inc. Essay by Frankie Hendrixson Kinnard Themes and Meanings The title I Am the Cheese gets its meaning from the children’s song “The Farmer in the Dell.” Adam’s father tells him how lucky the family is to have a song of its own. They frequently sing the song in its progression to the conclusion— “the cheese stands alone.” It is this line that suggests the theme of the book: Adam Farmer stands alone. Strong family ties are evident throughout the story. Adam’s father submits to the plan to change his identity and his life in order to protect his family. Adam’s mother clearly loves her husband and her son, and she gives up any life she might have had for fear of bringing attention to the family. Adam feels strong love and loyalty to his father and his mother. Under questioning, even though he is given truth serum, he sublimates some details because he thinks there is a chance that his father may be alive, and
