A review by kikkrareads
The Dead of Night by John Marsden

5.0

The second book of the tomorrow series, begins about two weeks after Tomorrow When The War Began, ended. This book is no sloppy second though, and holds the story quite well, following the difficult journey that the now 6 teens are enduring as they face invasion. In this book, Ellie, Homer, Fi, Lee, Robyn and Chris are faced with new challenges, the fear of the unknown and are thrown into situations that no teenager should have to deal with.

One again, John Marsden wrote with the voice of Ellie. He was able to create her into a strong, independent girl with faults and hopes and dreams, just like anyone else. The story is set, yet again, in her journals, detailing and keeping record of the horrendous things that have seen and experienced. Many different issues and topics are dealt with in this book as well. Marsden, has made a situation so foreign from a majority of his target audience, relatable to many.

The path of self destruction is discussed within the story, especially when it comes to Chris, an intelligent, creative member of the group who is too self contained, and too sheltered from the others.

The topics of sexual relationships and physical relationships are explored more with Ellie and Lee as they question their romantic relationship and how far they would like to take it. Ellie also has many discussions with Fi about sex. These conversations are so easy to relate to, its almost as if Marsden is able to get inside the females mind when he wrote these scenes.

There is also, once again, the topic of what is right or wrong and how one should act. Throughout the book, death and destruction surrounds these teenagers, and they are left facing the issues of what they should or shouldn't do. When they come across adults, they are also left questioning whether or not they should rely on the adults or their own instincts.

I am so happy I decided to reread this series! I have been loving it all over again and learning more and more about old characters (who have, over time, become friends to me). Marsden is a brilliant writer with a talent for words and emotions.

A BRILLIANT read!