When the War Began Series: A Thrilling Adventure by John Flanagan
Contents
What is When the War Began Series?
The When the War Began series is a young adult fantasy adventure series written by John Flanagan, an Australian author. The series follows the story of a group of teenagers who embark on a perilous journey to save their town and the world from invading forces.
About the Author
John Flanagan was born in 1944 in Sydney, Australia. He was a teacher, a businessman, and an avid reader before he took up writing. His most famous works include the Ranger’s Apprentice series and the Brotherband Chronicles. Flanagan’s writing career spans over two decades, and he has written many bestselling novels for children and young adults.
The Main Characters
The main characters in the When the War Began series are a group of teenagers who have grown up together in a small town in Australia called Wirralie. Here are some of the key characters:
- Ellie (Ellender): The protagonist of the series, Ellie is a 14-year-old high school student who loves exploring the bush and playing basketball. She is resourceful, determined, and loves her family.
- Corporal Andy Allen: Andy is Ellie’s best friend and a school dropout who has joined the army cadets. He is charming, confident, and has a love-hate relationship with authority.
- Kirra (Kirrabilli): Kirra is Ellie’s younger sister who is still in primary school. She is playful, mischievous, and loves to play pranks on her sister.
- Jeff: Jeff is Ellie and Kirra’s younger brother who is around 7 years old. He is curious, imaginative, and loves to get into mischief.
The Plot
The series begins on a seemingly ordinary day, but as the story progresses, Ellie and her friends discover that their town, Wirralie, has been invaded by an unknown enemy. The invasion is sudden, and the town is cut off from the rest of the world. Ellie’s family, including her brother and sister, are hiding in their bushland hideout, and Ellie’s only clue to finding her family is a cryptic message left by her grandfather.
Ellie’s journey takes her and her friends through the Australian outback, facing numerous challenges, including:
- Avoiding the invading forces and their hidden dangers.
- Battling with wild animals and harsh terrain.
- Figuring out the source of the invasion.
- Helping her family members who have been injured or captured.
- Coming to terms with the reality of war.
Themes
The When the War Began series explores several themes that resonate with readers of all ages, including:
- Friendship: The relationships between the main characters, particularly Ellie and Andy, are deep and meaningful. They learn to rely on each other and trust their instincts to survive.
- Adaptability: Ellie and her friends adapt to the harsh conditions and unexpected situations, showing the importance of resilience and adaptability.
- Power of Human Spirit: Despite the bleak circumstances, Ellie and her friends never lose hope. They find the strength to keep going and fight for their loved ones.
- Coming of Age: The series touches on the themes of puberty, love, and finding one’s identity, as the main characters navigate adolescence in the midst of a war.
Bullet Points: Key Takeaways from the Series
Here are some key takeaways from the series:
• The series blends fantasy and realism, making it an engaging and thrilling ride for readers.
• Ellie’s resourcefulness and quick thinking often save the day, demonstrating the importance of initiative and resourcefulness.
• Andy’s charisma and leadership skills are instrumental in keeping the group together and motivated.
• Kirra and Jeff add comedic relief, providing lighter moments in the midst of chaos.
• The series explores the effects of war on individuals, families, and communities, highlighting the importance of emotional intelligence and communication.
Awards and Recognition
The When the War Began series has received numerous awards and recognitions, including:
• ABIA Award: The first book in the series won the Australian Book Industry Award for Book of the Year in 2005.
• Inky Award: The second book won the Inky Award for Young Adult Literature in 2006.
Conclusion
The When the War Began series is an exciting and inspiring adventure that explores themes relevant to young adults and older readers alike. With well-developed characters, engaging plots, and themes that resonate with readers, this series is a must-read for anyone who enjoys fantasy and adventure. Whether you’re a fan of John Flanagan’s work or looking for a thrilling new series to devour, When the War Began is a great choice for anyone seeking an unforgettable journey.
