John Barton's death was a change in Josie's life that she had no control of. The journal style narrative allows the reader to see Josie's changing perspective of john as the novel progresses. Prior to johns death Josie believes John has it all as he is "School captain . greatest debater.good looking. popular" .
and according to Josie he is "the love of my life". After his death the first person narrative allows the reader to see Josie's emotions .At first she is devastated and can not under stand why someone who "never had any problems" would commit suicide. But after recovering from the shock of John's death, Josie is able to see beyond her anger and empathise with John "s feeling of isolation .The journal style reflection allows the reader to see Josie's changed perspective of john, as she realises "that wealth and social status don't equal happiness". .
Causes of change being combination internal and external is also shown by Marchetta through Josie. The use of episodic narrative and journalistic style enables the reader to see the causes of Josie's changed perspective towards her father clearly. Josie's father coming to live in Sydney was an external cause of change, as Josie had no control of his place of residence`. And Josie's initial reaction to this is hostile and antagonistic. Josie believes he has betrayed her mother and reigned on his role as a father. If she did not choose to make contact with him during the Carly Bishop incident with the science book, the relationship would not have grown. Through continued c association with Michael Josie changes her opinion. and becomes "proud to be an Andretti" The new relationship gives Josie increasing stability and security. .
The film "What women Want" directed by Nancy Myers and song "father and son" composed by Cat Stevens both share Marchetta's view which is the causes of change are both internal and external. The film what women want shows how Nick Marshall, a middle aged advertising agent changes from being a chauvinistic self centred person to one who is acutely aware of the emotions of others, particularly women.
