War

I believe that Homer is definitely the most valuable and important member of the group. He makes all the core decisions and judgements. He has saved the group numerous times out of tight situations by his practicality and thoughtfulness.

Homer at times may seem like an mischievous, and uncaring guy but this side of him is only a mere pretence of the true leader, thinker, planner, and inspirer.

"It was the same with Homer, the way for all those years he'd been hanging a big sign around his neck, and like a fool I'd kept reading it." Page 44

Homer is also a very rational person and thinks deeply about the possible outcomes of decisions before committing to them. His planning of taking down the bridge was carefully thought out and it worked completely.

Along with all of these remarkable qualities, he is also extremely caring and encouraging. When people are feeling miserable and depressed he always reassures them with a kind word.

"I stopped in front of the Mackenzies' porch and stood there, trying to find the energy to lift my foot and get off the bike. I stood there for a long time. I knew eventually I'd have to raise that leg but I didn't know when I would be able to do it. Finally Homer said kindly, 'Come on Ellie', and I was ashamed of my weakness and managed to stumble off the bike and even wheel it into the shed." Page 94

The narrator, Ellie Linton is also a precious member of the group. She is a rugged, hardy teenager who initiates much of the planning of the group.

All of the ideas that are made by Ellie are considered thoroughly before continuing with a plan or decision.

She astounds everyone, including herself at her courage and willpower. At the showgrounds, she bravely walks to the forefront to glance at some the tents and guards who were patrolling.

Robyn Mathers is another extremely helpful and caring person who is ready to do anything for her friends. She is a strong, athletic, and graceful character who has tremendous energy and stamina. She is so selfless that she risks her own life to help Lee escape into the restaurant. She knows basic first-aid uses it on Lee's injury several times.

"Then she ran to Lee, heaved him onto her back, across her shoulders, and carried him through the shattered door, kicking out bits of glass as she went.

.......carrying Lee, she staggered along the five buildings to get to the restaurant. The old door at the back, facing the carpark, has been broken open, so she got in there