Tomorrow, When the War Began - Plot Summary and Analysis

Introduction

• Title: Tomorrow, When the War Began
• Author: John Marsden
• Setting: Rural Australian town, wilderness area known as Hell

Main Characters

• Ellie: Main protagonist, narrates the story
• Corrie: Ellie's friend, initiates the camping trip
• Homer: Friend in the group, takes on a leadership role
• Lee: Another friend, Ellie has romantic feelings for him
• Fiona: Part of the group, Homer shows interest in her
• Robyn, Kevin, Chris: Other friends in the group
• The Hermit / Bertram Christie: A mysterious historical figure linked to Hell

Plot Summary

Initial Scenario

• Corrie and Ellie plan a camping trip to Hell.
• They convince their parents and invite friends Homer, Lee, Kevin, Robyn, and Fiona.
• They miss the Commemoration Day Show, a local annual event.

Strange Happenings

• The group notices jets flying over them at night.
• Upon returning home, they discover their town has been invaded.
• The town is deserted, Ellie's dogs are dead, and her parents are missing.

Discovering Invasion

• The friends deduce that the town was invaded during their absence.
• Corrie's father's fax hints at a possible war; urges hiding.
• They see the entire town is held captive at the Showground.

Escaping and Surviving

• Ellie, Corrie, and Kevin evade soldiers by blowing up a lawnmower.
• Homer and Ellie search for Robyn and Lee; Lee is injured.
• They rescue Lee using a stolen bulldozer.
• Chris joins the group as they retreat to Hell.

Understanding the War

• The group learns through radio about the war's regional equality motives.
• Robyn discusses the moral ambiguities of the war.

Personal Conflicts

• Ellie deals with her feelings for Lee and Homer.

Discovering the Hermit's Story

• Ellie and Lee find the Hermit's hut and learn about his tragic past.

Planning to Fight Back

• The group decides to blow up a bridge to hinder enemy movements.
• They execute the plan amid gunfire, likely destroying the bridge.

Conclusion

• The group returns to Hell after Corrie is shot.
• Kevin takes her to the hospital; the group plans to continue resistance.
• Ellie reflects on their unity and the importance of sticking together.

Themes

• War, Law, and Morality: The conflict challenges moral values and legal norms.
• Family, Friendship, and Love: Relationships are tested under pressure.
• Coming of Age: The characters mature rapidly due to traumatic events.
• Writing and Storytelling: Ellie's narration provides structure and reflection.

Symbols

• Hell: Represents both a physical and emotional state, linking to the Hermit's story.

Important Quotes

• These are not included in the summary, but are crucial for understanding character motivations and themes.

Final Thoughts

• The story illustrates resilience and the struggle for survival amid unexpected and tumultuous circumstances.
• It explores deep philosophical questions about justice, war, and personal growth.