Homer Yannos is Ellie's closest childhood friend, with whom she has an endearing brother/sister relationship. Throughout the novel, Ellie recounts pleasant memories of playing in the neighborhood with Homer, highlighting the drastic ways their lives have changed since the battles began. Prior to the war, Homer had been a somewhat irresponsible, immature leader, but the stress of war has proved Homer to be a very confident leader. Homer is described as short, strong, and dark due to his Greek heritage.
