Tomorrow, When the War Began Theme of Foolishness

In general, we're super impressed with the teens in Tomorrow, When the War Began. They're dealt an incredible tough hand, and they really rise to the challenge, not only managing to keep themselves alive, but also successfully fighting back against the invading soldiers. It's all top-notch stuff. Still, though, the Hell gang isn't immune from making mistakes. Some of the things they do are foolish, plain and simple, usually because they're unable to see a problem from all angles or anticipate all the possibilities. Fortunately, the kids get lucky a few times—but not every time.

Questions About Foolishness

  1. What's the most foolish decision the teens make? Why do they make it and why do you think it's so foolish?
  2. Are any of the characters habitually foolish? What does this reveal about the group dynamic?
  3. What's the luckiest moment the teens have, the time when they act most foolishly but pull something off anyway? Are they aware of how lucky they are? What does this tell you about them?

Chew on This

Try on an opinion or two, start a debate, or play the devil’s advocate.

No one's particularly foolish in this book; they're all just young and trying to make sense of something super confusing.

Ultimately, the Hell gang only survives thanks to luck.