Acclaimed Australian author John Marsden, who wrote the popular young adult fiction Tomorrow books, has died aged 74.
The Alice Miller School, which Marsden founded, confirmed his death in a letter to parents. “He died at his desk in his home, doing what he loved, writing,” the statement said.
John Marsden.Credit: Michael Copp
A multi-award winning author, Marsden’s 1993 novel Tomorrow, When the War Began was a major hit that was adapted into a film and TV series.
The best-selling author’s established two schools in the Macedon Ranges north-west of Melbourne: the arts-based Alice Miller independent secondary college in Macedon and Candlebark School in Romsey.
Before setting up his own secondary colleges, Marsden taught at schools including Geelong Grammar in the 1980s.
Melbourne writer and broadcaster Daniel James paid tribute to Marsden’s impact on him after visiting his high school.
“I can honestly say that I wouldn’t be near the writer I am today if John Marsden hadn’t visited Euroa High School a couple of times,” James said. “He challenged us and gave us inventive exercises that have always stayed with me and sparked my curiosity. Vale.”
Climate 200 founder Simon Holmes a Court, who attended Geelong Grammar, described Marsden as a “standout” teacher.
“Very sad to hear of the passing of John Marsden,” he wrote on X.
