A theme in a literary work refers to the <em>main idea</em> that is developed through the narrative or the <em>underlying meaning</em> of the work. It can be expressed directly or indirectly and it often refers to ideas that deal with internal or external conflicts.
A) Perky is one of those adjectives that sounds like what it means: cheerful and lively. Language like this helps bring color and depth to a reading and makes it come alive.