Essay

We see the implementation of a new leadership form due to the significant changes in each character and their morals as an affect of this unexpected war. The discovery of their circumstances demand that the gang look for new ways of dealing with their situation and new leaders. Through new emerging leaders at different stages in the text, they look to each other for advice, guidance, support and decision making. There are new skills to learn, different strengths to draw on and new talents to foster. Yet while they all develop new skills of their own, Homer is the character who is the most unlikely leader, “ That was Homers genius.   He combined action with thought and planned a head”.   Ellie’s hyperbole in describing the initial “wild and outrageous” Homer, clearly contrasts her initial thoughts of him.   This clever technique not only reveals his transformation throughout the novel, but how leaders often emerge unexpectaly in the face of adversity. ‘we’ve got to stick together....... I don’t won’t to end up alone like the hermit.   “Ellie’s metaphore symbolises the significance of her new relationships, not just with this group, but her family and nation.   Their discovery of the Hermits home and their growing understanding of his story helps remind them of the importance of family relationship, providing the impetus (motivation) for their desine to resist the invading forces.   Young readers will engage with their relevant theme, as the relationship are consistantly evolving due to the uncertainty condition of the war.

In order to survive, Marsden has cleverly revealed that Ellie and her friends needed to develop new skills.   It was the unforseen war that forced them to change themselves, their morals, develop leadership skills and recognise how important their relationships are to their being their decision to “start thinking of themselves as guerrillas” was a result of many arguments.   Young readers can not only relate to this moral dilemma but understand the...