Friendship in Tomorrow when the War Began

Friendship plays a significant role in the novel ‘Tomorrow when the War Began’, John Marsden has used narrative techniques to show how treasured and important the groups friendship is. He uses first person narration to express the story from Ellie's point of view.  She explains her story through her thoughts and emotions whilst herself and the group are experiencing war. The book teaches that in uncertain times, friendships can become even more important, the self-affirmation, comfort and love provided by friends strengthens the will to survive. Towards the end of the book, the group decides to blow up the bridge in Wirrawee, one of aspects that the group feared was their safety especially Ellie and Fi’s. “The only thing that Homer had left out was the way he’d wept when he’d found us both safe. I saw the sweetness of Homer then, that he’d had as a little guy, but which some people probably lost as a teenager.” The author demonstrates that the group care for one another’s wellbeing and they truly value the friendly and loving relationship they have with each other.

Predominantly the groups friendship and support for one another, becomes a primal theme within the novel. Even though they contend with each other and don’t always agree with each other’s ideas or opinions, they are always there for each other, even in a matter of life and death.  During the novel the group becomes very close and start to work together as a team. At the end of the book, the group is faced with an immense problem. Corrie has been shot and she needs medical attention straight away but the group can’t afford to be seen by the enemy. “Kevin stood. ’No,’ he said. ‘No. I don’t give a stuff what’s rational and logical. Corries my  mate and I’m not going to dump her and run. It has to be me or ellie because we are the only drivers, and Ellie, if you don’t mind , I want to do it.” John Marsden has used short sentences to build up tension, to indicate that Kevin is showing a brave and courageous quality. He demonstrates the care and love Kevin has for Corrie and how Kevin has grown as a person to become an equal member of the group. The book also displays to the reader that the group’s friendship is so strong that they are willing to sacrifice themselves for each other.