What should a reader consider when looking for a theme? a. the author’s education and heritage b. the author’s direct statement of theme in the text c. the stated moral of the story, usually found at the end d. the charcters’ behavior, growth, and motivations

Theme in a story or writing is the main point, the general idea, the point of the writing. What is it about? That's what theme answers. 

Theme has nothing to do with the author other than obviously the author MADE the theme. It has nothing to do with the author's personal life. 

The authors direct statement of theme in the textNo. Authors don't TELL you directly WHAT the theme is unless they are doing a review. This is incorrect.

The stated moral of the story, usually found at the end. Fables have morals. They DO in fact mention the moral usually, but this isn't what you should necessarily LOOK for. 

What you should REALLY take into consideration are the characters! What motivates them? Maybe a family member or the death of a close friend keeps them going? Maybe they rely on other characters within the book! Characters develop over time, both for better and worse. You should take into consideration their actions, motivations, growth, and behavior. 

Your answer here is 100% D

~Hope this helps mate!