A transition is defined as a process or a period of changing from one state or condition to another, but in every transition, an impetus or a catalyst always provokes it. A transition can be challenging and exciting but can result in growth, which leads to an individual experiencing a deepened understanding of themselves and others. These ideas are clearly portrayed in J.C Burke’s novel ‘The Story of Tom Brennan’ and in Kate Wood’s film ‘Looking for Alibrandi’

In ‘The Story of Tom Brennan’ J.C Burke expresses the challenges or obstacles that one faces when undergoing a transition through Tom’s first person narration, as feelings of guilt and denial can obstruct an individual’s ability to manage new phases of life. The Brennan family was forced …show more content…
The accident involving Daniel was the impetus for the transition that the Brennan family had to face. Initially in the novel, Tom is unable to cope with what has happened, as he feels responsible and guilty for Daniel’s actions, this is emphasised in the quote “Daniel Brennan was an accident waiting to happen. An accident waiting to happen” through the use of the bold font and the repetition. This feeling of guilt is hindering Tom’s ability and the Brennan family to move forward within the transitional process. Alienation and denial plays a role in hindering the movement through the transition particularly with Tess Brennan who struggles the most with her transition due to her close relationship with Daniel. After the accident, Tess is in huge denial as to what happened in the car crash as she questions herself and Tom about Daniel’s involvement in the accident. The quote “mum’s bent head revealed grey …show more content…
Initially in the film, Josie is embarrassed by her her Italian culture as shown at the beginning of the film with it being Tomato Day and Josie attempts to change the cultural Italian music to her music. Josie also has minimal respect for her grandmother, she views her Nonna as an annoying old person but as the film progresses; she begins to accept her heritage and gains more respect for her family members. The catalyst for this transition was inevitable as Josie’s father Michael Andretti went to Sydney. Josie’s initial reaction to her father was negative, particularly when Josie begins to speak to him in a rude tone at a family gathering. The dialogue between the 2 characters in this scene is significant as she tells him “Get real! Stop being polite you’re making me puke” which depicts her negative thoughts about her father. As the film progresses she has a healthier relationship with her father and finds a new found respect for her Nonna as shown at the end of the film with it being Tomato day again, where instead of being embarrassed about the tradition, she embraces it and asked her nonna to dance with her. This film portrays the idea that transitions can have a positive effect on individuals as it allows them to feel rejuvenated and have positive feelings