woah. this is amazing ronni. such a nuanced and in depth analysis of the series. i definitely haven't thought these concepts through as you have, so i appreciate your insight. i was so excited when marsden came to woden plaza one day and i got him to sign my books. it's an amazing series. i remember reading the sex scene between ellie and lee when i was in year 6. funny how that's the most memorable part ;) now marsden has started his own school in victoria, i'd love to visit one day.