Booklists

When the Bat's away, the Cat will play. It's time to see how many lives this cat really has . . . Two years after escaping Gotham City's slums, Selina Kyle returns as the mysterious and wealthy Holly Vanderhees. She quickly discovers that with Batman off on a vital mission, Batwing is left to hold back the tide of notorious criminals. Gotham City is ripe for the taking. Meanwhile, Luke Fox wants to prove he has what it takes to help people in his role as Batwing. He targets a new thief on the prowl who seems cleverer than most. She has teamed up with Poison Ivy and Harley Quinn, and together they are wreaking havoc. This Catwoman may be Batwing's undoing. Usually read by students in years 9, 10 and above.

Tristan is heading to Mars, part of the colonising first fleet from Earth. He and his girlfriend, Izzy, are reality television stars for a reason - like their namesakes, Tristan and Isolde, their love story is destined for heartache. But it is the mysterious sabotage, aboard the spaceships hurtling towards Mars, that offers the most captivating aspect of the plot.

Explore the human body from head to toe. Lots of interesting facts and details about how our bodies works for us.

Sixteen year old Liza expects to make her debut in 1830s London but, when her parents die, she is left penniless and must enter service. She becomes a maid to young Princess Victoria. Liza slowly adjusts to her new life and the temperamental, lonely princess. Liza befriends a young boy and a newspaperman to confront the public slander surrounding the princess. Includes some adult themes and violence. Usually read by students in Years 9, 10 or above.

In a world where bees are extinct, the quickest, bravest kids climb fruit trees and pollinate the flowers by hand. All Peony wants to be is a bee - dancing along the high branches and helping her gramps and sister scratch out a living. Life on the farm is a scrabble, but there is enough to eat and a place to sleep, and there is love. Then Peony's mother arrives to take her away from everything she has ever known. Will Peony's grit and quick thinking be enough to keep her safe?

Two very different men share an ambition to discover a tomb that nobody else believes is there. It takes many years to locate the burial place of the boy king and many more to uncover the treasures hidden therein.

Two children are living in a community in an underground cave because The Counsellor has dropped toxic waste on the earth above.

A study of the role of women in Roman and medieval periods in history.

Australian history joins with science to bring the world of the explorer to life. Each chapter contains an historical section plus a related project and some quirky but interesting facts. Trying to stay alive and keeping an eye on the weather are just as applicable today as they were two hundred years ago. Tales of tragedy, conflict and death, loyalty, amazing perseverance and wonderment.

Ever wondered what all those tiny bugs are that you see when you look very closely at a rosebud on a rosebush? Ever wanted to be able to identify a bird just from hearing its song? Want to learn how to keep a pet ant lion? All that and more is to be found within this informative book. Features personal accounts from the author's experiences with many of the species mentioned.

A fascinating account of the battle for the Kokoda Track in 1942 where 550 men of the 39th Militia Battalion slowed, and eventually stopped, the advance of 6000 experienced Japanese troops across the massive Owen Stanley Ranges.

Lennie is leaving the security of life at home to attend a day school in Sydney. She is full of excitement but life outside her secure house with her younger sisters throws up all sorts of challenges, She finds a best friend in Mabel Jones, a fellow pupil and begins to develop her talents as a writer. A charming tale of life as a teenage girl in Sydney in the late 1800's.

In tiny Miller's Flat, Mike is stuck at the caravan park helping his mum when he'd rather be with mates. One day, he meets feisty, city girl, Kirsty, who is trying to run away. Together, they escape their boredom and create their own world on a remote beach, beachcombing for treasures and imagining stories about pirates and washed up bodies.

Virginia has fallen out of love with her boyfriend, Froggy, and her brother has been arrested for a crime that the whole family thought was behind them. Virginia is struggling to cope with all this, but then she meets Sebastian. They decide not to talk about anything personal, just to hang out for the summer having fun. But soon they discover that they can't run from the truth forever. Usually read by students in Years 9, 10 or above.

Seth Parrot lives in a dung-covered house with his brother and not so ex-hippy parents. Seth dreams of muscular girls and knows lots of quirky facts, more from reading teenage girls' magazines than from listening to his eccentric dad.

Kevin, the troll, is crafty and cranky, mysterious and moody and he wants children pie for his seven-hundredth birthday. When trolls and humans make contact, amazing events occur.

Thomas Timewell is sixteen, living in England in 1828, where body-snatching is rife, cut-throats are about and terrible novelists are absorbing the lives of wealthy women with nothing better to do. Contains some horror and mature themes. Usually read by students in Years 9, 10 and above.

Siggy learns the pitfalls of alcohol abuse and not considering the consequences before embarking on what looks like a good idea at the time. Growing up in a sleepy coastal town full of characters, with the girl he loves only a long bike ride away, Siggy is on a quest for the perfect girlfriend. He also has to survive the cool kids at school and build family ties with a mum, an arty sister and a potential stepfather. Usually read by students in years 9, 10 and above.

Adam is assistant manager at his parents holiday park, where, after the death of his grandfather, his grandmother has started scaring off the visitors and his parents have started fighting. Once he stops getting into embarrassing situations involving public nudity and work out what's so funny about two tigers on a beach, then maybe he can hope to figure out Samantha.

At an embarrassing stage of life, Dominic is burdened with a worrying mother, a father who fancies his teacher, an annoying sister and an embarrasiing friend. Dominic is practising Buddhism and resorts to emailing his estranged uncle for support.

When their families mysteriously disappear, Swift and Hawk, teen experts in AI and robotics, are recruited into the top-secret Mobius Programme. Plunged into a life-and-death rescue mission, Swift and Hawk race from London to an isolated, sinister island in the North Atlantic, straight into the hands of a deadly enemy...

Luca Mason knows exactly who he is and what he wants: In six months, he's going to be accepted into the Australian Ballet School, leave his fancy private high school, and live his life as a star of the stage - at least that's the plan until he falls down a flight of stairs and breaks his foot in a way he can never recover from. With his dancing dreams dead on their feet, Luca loses his performing arts scholarship and transfers to the local public school, leaving behind all his ballet friends and his whole future on stage. The only bright side is that he strikes up unlikely friendships with the nicest (and nerdiest) girl at his new school, Amina, and the gorgeous and popular school captain, Jordan Tanaka-Jones. As their unlikely bonds grow stronger, Luca starts to wonder: who is he without ballet? And is he setting himself up for another heartbreak? Usually read by students in years 9, 10, or above.

Noah is in love with his online best friend. Which is a huge problem, for the following reasons- 1. His crush has no idea. 2. Noah only knows him as his gaming avatar. 3. There's zero chance they'll ever meet in real life. So, when Noah sees an opportunity to secretly meet his crush, he takes it. Even though he'll have to join the cast of a local production of Chicago with his self-obsessed mother. Even though he'll need to lie to his best (and only) friend. And even though he'll have to sing and dance in front of actual people. Because love is worth the risk. And, really, what could possibly go wrong? Usually read by students in Years 9, 10 or above.

Twelve short, engaging stories send readers on some humorous, tough and thought provoking journeys. The stories suit a wide range of reading abilities.

William is evacuated to the countryside during the bombing of English cities in World War II. Mr Tom takes him in and turns his sad life around.

Set in post-war Britain in 1949, fourteen year old Henry has no friends and misses his war-hero father. He resents his stepfather and stepsister, and escapes by going to the cinema, his passion. When Henry develops an old camera film, he uncovers a mystery and events spiral until Henry's life resembles the drama of the big screen.

Elena Rudina lives with her dying mother in the impoverished Russian countryside. One day, a train arrives carrying untold wealth, a cornucopia of food, and Ekaterina, a girl of Elena's age. When the two girls' lives collide, an adventure begins that includes mistaken identity, a monk locked in a tower, a prince travelling incognito and a wise-cracking Baba Yaga, a witch who lives in a house perched on chicken legs.

Paper, gunpowder, silk, porcelain, stirrups for riding horses and many other wonderful and extraordinary things were first used in China. Read about the rise and fall of dynasties, the superstitions and beliefs of the people and the famous people who are part of the great story of China.

The plight of a young girl who, because of traditional Chinese beliefs, is rejected by her family at birth.

A young girl is thrown out of her home by her cruel stepmother onto the dangerous streets of Shanghai. She takes refuge in a Martial Arts Academy and becomes part of a new family. A secret mission changes her life dramatically. Usually read by students in Years 9, 10 and above.

Following a fall, and in hospital where Chinese Cinderella sees a copy of an ancient painting. She is haunted by vivid dreams that seem strange, yet somehow familiar, recalling a life lived eight hundred years ago during the Song Dynasty. Hypnosis is used, leaving open the concept of reincarnation.

Jake helps her new step-sister and step-brother to protect an alien from another dimension.

Laura has premonitions and senses what is about to happen. She is encouraged to 'change over' and become a witch so that she can help save her brother from an evil spirit. Usually read by students in Years 9, 10 or above.

Athena finds a box covered with green material. Inside it, she sees a dream world which draws her and her cousins in.

A child begins to receive strange messages and learns about a family legacy.

Kidnapping and suspense highlight this story of two children who have to rely on courage and resourcefulness to escape from a bleak house.

Seventeen-year-old Audrey Rose is like no other 'lady' of her time. Living in London during the 1880s, she would rather sneak out to her forbidden uncle's laboratory to study forensic medicine than drink tea and discuss what is considered more polite conversation with whoever her father believes she should be socialising with. When Jack the Ripper brutally strikes, Audrey Rose and her uncle are thrown into the case, but things just don't add up. Does she know the killer? Can Audrey Rose stop him, or will her meddling put her right in line to be the next victim? Usually read by students in years 9, 10 and above.

Based on a true account of a young refugee girl's determination to overcome the loss of her legs in a Mozambique landmine accident. A deeply moving and unforgettable story.

"I am restless, my feet need to fly." Amber is trapped - by her father's rules, by his expectations, by her own fears. Now she's ready to fight - for her mother, for her sister, for herself. Freedom always comes at a price. Run, Rebel is a trailblazing verse novel that thunders with rhythm, heart and soul - perfect for fans of Sarah Crossan, Elizabeth Acevedo and Rupi Kaur. Usually read by students in years 9, 10 and above.

In Java in the fourteenth century, the villagers are fearful of Mbah Merapi, the rumbling volcano that overshadows their lives. Kancil, the lowliest kitchen servant, knows the real danger is human but she is fatherless and mute. She will lose everything if her identity is revealed. But, Kancil must warn the villagers of the danger they are facing.

Titania, the Fairy Queen, and Oberon, King of Fairies, fall into a quarrel about who should have charge of a little changeling boy. Oberon and his servant, Puck, cast a spell which causes Titania to fall magically in love with Nick Bottom, a weaver who has been given the head of a donkey. Oberon sees the error of his ways and seeks a way to reverse the spell and restore harmony.

The Storm is a deadly force that surrounds the city and curses everyone in it. Vesper Vale and her ex-revolutionary father must evade both the storm and the queen's soldiers by using dangerous experimental magic. When her father is captured, Vesper must find a way to infiltrate the elite squad of soldier-sorcerers, lead by the powerful Prince Valca. When Vesper learns there's more at play within the deadly Storm, she must risk everything to fight - including her heart. This book contains adult themes, including depictions of death and violence. Usually read by students in years 9, 10, or above.

Josephine, a second generation Australian from an Italian family, seeks to find her way during her HSC year. Usually read by students in Years 9, 10 or above.

Despite her brother leaving for the Otherworld, Liobhan, a young warrior bard is determined to complete her training as an elite fighter on Swan Island. She is devastated when her comrade Dau is injured and loses his sight in a training bout. Blamed by Dau's family, she agrees to accompany him home to Oakhill as a bondservant for one year. But Oakhill is a place of dark secrets. Dau battles demons of despair whilst the vicious Crow Folk threaten both worlds. It will take a great deal of skill and a touch of the uncanny to give them hope of survival. Usually read by students in years 9, 10 and above.

Liobhan has always dreamed of being a Swan Island warrior. She is a talented musician with exceptional strength and fighting skills which make her the perfect candidate to be a warrior bard and spy. Whilst posing as travelling musicians, Liobhan and her brother Brocc, must find a precious harp that is an ancient symbol of kingship. If the harp is not played at the upcoming coronation the heir will not be accepted and the kingdom will be thrown into turmoil. They can trust no one. Is there a political plot to stop the prince from becoming King or is there something else, something otherworldly at work here? Usually read by students in years 9, 10 and above.

A story that features civil rights for women.

A girl, who is mad about motor bikes, finds happiness in a run-down bike shop. Usually read by students in Years 9, 10 or above.

In 1901, Robert Scott made his first trip to Antarctica. This is the incredible story of Scott's adventures and the animals he saw along the way.

Two young women a century apart are mysteriously connected. While 21st century Lizzie abandons old friends and makes reckless choices, 20th century Evie's dreams are torn apart by WW1. Lizzie and Evie will discover strength and courage from unexpected places. Usually read by students in years 9, 10 and above.

1943. World War II is raging across Europe and on the Pacific front. Kit Sutherland is hiding a huge secret when she is unexpectedly recruited to work as a young codebreaker at Arlington Hall, a US Signals Intelligence facility. When Kit's roommate doesn't return home from a dance, it sparks a search that ends in a gruesome discovery. And soon it turns into a horrifying pattern: Government girls are being murdered in Washington, DC. Kit joins forces with three other girl codebreakers, Dottie, Moya and Violet, and as they work to crack the killer's code, two things become terrifyingly clear: the murderer they're hunting is getting closer every moment... and Kit's own secret could put her in more jeopardy than she ever imagined. Usually read by students in years 9, 10, or above.

It is 1982 and the FBI studies serial killers in order to know how they operate, why they do the things they do and more importantly how to spot the clues and be able to catch them. But how do you study teenage serial killers? Which teenage serial killers are willing to talk to the FBI professionals? That's where teenagers Emma and Travis come into play. Both victims of serial killers in their own ways, they've been asked to take part in a program of interviewing young serial killers and trying to help study them. But what happens when they get caught up in an active case, what happens when they get caught between two serial killers? Usually read by students in years 9, 10, or above.

September, 1982: Three months after the showdown with Simon Gutmunsson in St Elizabeths Hospital for the Criminally Insane, Emma Lewis has retreated to college life in Ohio, and the support of her family and her therapist. But Emma has a unique gift for hunting killers, and the FBI wants her back. Travis Bell is on track to make a career in law enforcement. But the FBI unit's latest case is testing all his skills, and in Emma's absence, Travis has accepted help from Kristin Gutmunsson, Simon's eccentric twin sister, to track a dangerous new target. Compelled to prevent more tragedy, Emma reaches out once more to Simon Gutmunsson to save the copycat's next victims -- but as always, Simon knows more than he's telling... Can Emma and Travis conquer a killer in the most horrifying situation they've ever faced? Usually read by students in years 9, 10, or above.

Vicky was the daughter of a great warrior, Kathleen, who had escaped the clutches of the queen. She was protected by gargoyles and the people who loved her mother. After an unexpected turn, she needs the help of those people more than ever. She is sent to the school her mother went to: Corvis, and finds new friends and secrets to her past. Can she repair the wrongs that have been made in the past and will she have to do it all alone?

A sweeping fantasy chronicling a courageous girl's sometimes violent fight for freedom in a world ravaged by war and religious fanaticism. Tackles themes such as religion and terrorism as well as unconventional love. Usually read by students in Year 10 and above.

A quick-fix guide to general knowledge and trivia. Everything you needed to know, and maybe didn't even know to ask, explained with wit and clarity. Usually read by students in Years 9, 10 or above.

Marina's face is shockingly scarred. She has not spoken since her father threw acid at her mother, hitting Marina instead. As part of a writing assignment, she has to keep a journal. In it, she deals realistically with her post-traumatic stress. Usually read by students in Years 9, 10 or above.

In a Year 9 boarding school dormitory, introspective Laura pours out her observations of friends, family, her frustrations and successes, her thoughts and feelings in her writing. She also befriends Marina who readers met in 'So much to tell you'. Usually read by students in Years 9, 10 or above.

The first book in the Tomorrow series. A group of teenagers return from a camping trip to find their town invaded and their parents imprisoned. They must mature quickly, deal with teenage angst and become combative to ensure their own survival. Usually read by students in Years 9, 10 or above.

Winter is 16. She has just returned to her family home. She has not been here since she was four years old, when both of her parents died within six months of each other. Some of the locals are happy to see her. Others are not. Her decision to return, to restore her family home, and to settle down is met with some joy and some hostility. Getting to the bottom of why people feel the way they do will reveal things about her past she might wish she had never known. Usually read by students in years 9, 10 and above.

Josh and his family have moved from a nice city house, to a boring street in the country. There are dangerous strangers in his backyard and bullets flying past his ears. At his new school everyone thinks he is hopeless and he has no clue about sport, like cricket, but they are in for the shock of their lives.

Everyone wants a safe place, a place to share with people they love and to call home. Torn from everything they know and love, a young boy and his family struggle to survive the harsh realities of living life as refugees. A harrowing read for refugees from other lands, a disturbingly thought-provoking read for those of us who have always lived in peace and with plenty.

A sophisticated picture book depicting the invasion and multiplying of the rabbits. The threat that this poses is symbolic of the coming of white civilisation to Australia.

Thirteen-year-old Matthew is miserable. His journalist dad is stuck overseas and his mom has moved in his one-hundred-year-old great-grandmother to ride out the Covid pandemic. But when Matthew finds a tattered black-and-white photo in his great-grandmother's belongings, he discovers a clue to a hidden chapter of her past - one that will lead to a life-shattering family secret. Set in alternating times that connect the present day to the 1930s and the US to the USSR and the Holodomor - the horrific famine that killed millions of Ukrainians, which the Soviet government covered up for decades.

Alan Marshall's classic autobiography shows how someone who contracted polio at the age of six, in 1908, and was permanently crippled can still lead a fulfilling life.

Eight short stories that provide a window into the little known world of teenagers growing up in different parts of the Arab world, including Iraq, Tunisia, Egypt, Lebanon, Syria and Jordan.

The son of a zookeeper, Pi Patel has an encyclopedic knowledge of animal behavior and a fervent love of stories. When Pi is sixteen, his family emigrates from India to North America aboard a Japanese cargo ship, along with their zoo animals bound for new homes. The ship sinks. Pi finds himself alone in a lifeboat, his only companions a hyena, an orangutan, a wounded zebra, and Richard Parker, a 450-pound Bengal tiger. Soon the tiger has dispatched all but Pi, whose fear, knowledge, and cunning allow him to coexist with Richard Parker for 227 days while lost at sea. When they finally reach the coast of Mexico, Richard Parker flees to the jungle, never to be seen again. The Japanese authorities who interrogate Pi refuse to believe his story and press him to tell them "the truth." After hours of coercion, Pi tells a second story, a story much less fantastical, much more conventional--but is it more true? Usually read by students in years 9, 10 and above.

The inspirational sailing adventure of Jesse Martin's solo voyage around the world.

The age of man is over, reintroducing dinosaurs to Earth was an unsurprisingly bad idea. while the Survivors rebuild a society in underground bunkers, some wonder if there is more to what's left than this? Sky Munday breaks free from her compound to face the surface, the dinosaurs and maybe even to find her missing father. Who will kill her first, her former compound community, or the reptilian predators above?

Felipe is fat. And he doesn't need anyone to remind him, which is, of course, what everyone does. He's been waiting for summer: a break from the classmates who tease him incessantly. His plans include catching up on TV, finishing his TBR pile, and watching YouTube tutorials. But then Felipe's mom invites Caio, the neighbour kid from apartment 57, to spend 15 days with them while his parents are on vacation. Felipe is distraught because A) he's had a crush on Caio since, well, for ever, and B) Felipe has a list of body image insecurities and absolutely NO idea how he's going to entertain his neighbour for two full weeks. Suddenly, the days ahead of him that once promised rest and relaxation end up bringing a whirlwind of feelings, forcing Felipe to dive head-first into every unresolved issue he has had with himself - but maybe, just maybe, he'll manage to win over Caio, too. Usually read by students in years 9, 10 and above.

1969. While astronauts are navigating to the moon, Sharnie is navigating her way through her first year in high school (just). She wonders if the world will change when man walks on the moon. However much Sharnie wishes things would stay the same, change is coming. She feels less included in the life of her older sister, Cas, who is growing up and growing away from her. Family life gets rocky as her patriotic dad discovers Cas has met a returned soldier and is intent on making a stand about conscription and Australia's involvement in the Vietnam war. At school, Sharnie's only friend Mia is also drifting away from her towards her nemesis, Ellie. She usually finds comfort at her grandma's but Grandma is becoming forgetful lately and Sharnie is worried. Although it is hard, will Sharnie be courageous enough to moonwalk, to find her own way?

A prose-verse novel, set amidst the chaos and brutality of the Victorian goldfields in the 1800s. The narrator, traumatised by a fire in which her family died, and her mangy dog, Ratwhiskers, are befriended by a Chinese boy. Posing as a boy, she flees to the Chinese camp, pretending to be Chinese and taking a new name.

Discover what life is, how it works and why Biology is more exciting today then ever before...

Birdie and her dad love being up in the sky in their Tiger Moth plane, Peggybelle. That is, until a terrible accident makes it a matter of life and death, and Birdie finds herself flying the plane alone.

Set in the panic and confusion of a wartime attack, two boys from different cultures must rely on each other to survive in the desert. Usually read by students in Years 9, 10 and above.

Louis and Thomas are on holiday in Sarajevo, enjoying the privileges of life in a diplomat's family. But, when a bomb explodes and the heir to the Austrian Empire is assassinated, Europe descends into war. Louis travels to the front as a war correspondent. In northern France, he witnesses the war's first battles and the beginning of trench warfare. Louis' friends join the war effort too, with and against each other.

Year 6 schoolgirls must deal with issues of bullying.

Sam comes from a family of boggle hunters, although he is unaware of this when he is sent to stay with his English relatives. Computer games are Sam's passion and he cannot believe his eyes when he receives an invitation to become part of the role-playing game, 'Grim's castle'. Parallel stories ensue with Sam being led through a dangerous game and cousin Jenny searching for her missing parents. Fantasy and magic weave throughout this exciting quest.

Tattercoat's only friends include Pug, the gooseherd, and Malkin, the serving maid. They devise a way to smuggle Tattercoat in to a birthday ball from which her grandfather has excluded her.

A group of teens are abducted into the land of the Korrigans. The human world continues to search for the group, who have now been separated into the two worlds. The heroic journeys of all the characters are akin to those journeys of the literature of old.

An English theatre troupe travelling in the New Orleans area, in a world of voodoo, black magic and gangsters, are dragged into a suspenseful mystery that involves murder, blackmail and intrigue. Usually read by students in Years 9, 10 or above.

Hugo and his father have come to Australia to research life in the gold fields. When the coach they are travelling on is bailed up by a bushranger, they decide to find out all they can about bushrangers. Little does Hugo know that when he befriends fifteen year old Ned Kelly, he is much closer to bushrangers that he expected. His comfortable travels with is father are about to lead to exciting and dangerous places.

Hopewell Shakespeare craves adventure and he joins the crew of a notorious buccaneer hunting for the Lost Island of the Lord of Alchemists where dreams come true. Usually read by students in Years 9, 10 or above.

Java is the setting for this story about an Indonesian family and an old mystery surrounding Nick's grandmother.

Millie Osborne is an errand girl for King's company, the famous troupe of actors who, beset by misfortune, have decided to put on a spectacular performance of Hamlet to announce their comeback. When mysterious Oliver Parry arrives to audition for Hamlet, Millie is intrigued and wonders why he is so secretive. She investigates and Millie uncovers secret identities, betrayal, lies, revenge and, perhaps, even murder.

In joining the Hitler Youth, Dieter finds belonging with other young men, and escape from his proud step father. Sasha and her family, having moved with her family from Sydney to France so her father can report on the war, find themselves under rule by the surging German army. Both have secrets to keep on the complex playing field of war and resistance, but as these two characters circle closer to each other, they need to decide if trust is possible.

Daisy and George find themselves caught up in a world of mystery and glamour when they try to unmask the jewel thief before it's too late.

Short stories from a range of authors using characters from the life and times of the legendary King Arthur. Each tells the story of a turning point or magical moment in the early life of that character and the consequence for the future.

In 1947, Bilal is shields his dying father from the truth about the violence that is threatening India and their formerly peaceful community. With determination and help from friends, Bilal persuades others to collude with him in this deception, even printing false pages of the local newspaper. Bilal just wants his father to die in peace but that means Bilal has a complicated relationship with the truth.

The trials of high school start to feel like modern day witch hunt for Samantha Mather, who has all the wrong connections to Salem's past. To say Sam is unwelcome in Salem would be an understatement. She is the target of the Descendants, a mysterious group of girls whose ancestors were persecuted in the Witch Trials. Complicating her life further is Elijah, an inconveniently handsome resident ghost, and her cute new neighbour, Jaxon. When a centuries old curse is rekindled, Sam finds herself in the centre of it. Can she stop history repeating itself?

In a Victorian farming community, Emmie's mother takes on Bertha to help with the chores and the two girls become friends. Emmie discovers Bertha's terrible secrets and their lives intertwine. Based on true events and containing adult themes. Usually read by students in Years 9, 10 and above.

A collection of ten, strange stories, including one about a person who swam so much, he grew fins.

Yvonne Edwards, a highly respected Aboriginal artist and community leader, was just six years old when the first bombs of the nuclear tests at Maralinga were detonated in Australia in 1956. The tests continued until 1963 and their consequences profoundly affected her family and the community.

Asmir and his family are trying to escape from the war in Sarajevo.

Four teenagers who are all born on the same Valentine's Day begin to disappear. As the bodies mount up, Pearl Linford has to work out what is happening before it happens to her. Finn Blacklin also shares a Valentines birthday and is the sworn enemy of Pearl. Finn is also the Valentine and a Seelie fairy changeling swapped for a human boy at birth. The Unseelie have come to kill the Valentine but they do not know who it is. Pearl must use all her wits to protect herself. Finn must come to terms with his newfound heritage. There is explosive chemistry too between them that must be dealt with.

About a teenager, for teenagers. Dara's is an extraordinary voice and vision, a celebration of beauty and wonder with a powerful connection wot the natural world. 'Spring light and warmth are spreading across the mountains and into me. I have embraced the darkness but now this feeling of light is intoxicating, explosive and alive.

Tessa needs to be perfect, the perfect daughter, with the perfect marks and the perfect body. But, there is a fine line between being in control and being controlled, in Tessa's effort to achieve perfection. Contains mature themes and some language in context. Usually read by student in Years 9,10 or above.

A thought-provoking way of looking at world history and our place within it. About 10,000 years ago marks a major turning point in the history of life on Earth for humankind as people settled down and built towns and cities. Importantly, during this period, they began to record their activities and achievements. But 10,000 years ago is difficult to imagine - what if our calendar were condensed into just 100 days, where each day equals 100 years? How many days ago were the first cities built? When did the population explosion happen? When did we decide to write things down and when did books appear? Did writing change the way we share ideas? This book asks questions big and small, leaving readers wondering if all the changes have been for the better, and what does it mean for our future.

Red Liston entertains the reader with diary entries about his teenage exploits.

Gabriel is apprenticed to a stonemason, a cruel master. When the opportunity presents itself, he runs away to join a troupe of travelling mystery players.

Lacey Chu dreams of working for the company behind the revolutionary 'baku' a customisable smart pet that replaces the mobile phone but functions as a pet. To fulfil her dream she must be accepted into the Profectus Academy but her financial situation and family background seem to be standing in her way. That is, until she comes across Jinx; an incredibly advanced cat baku who goes beyond the functions of normal baku to forge an extraordinary bond with Lacey and paves the way to the possibility of her dreams coming true. Until Jinx misbehaves that is...Usually read by students in Years 9, 10 or above.

A young Aboriginal boy is travelling back to his home on the mission to attend the funeral of a cousin.

In this story of reconciliation and courage, Boori is determined to carry on his late brother's tradition of storytelling and performing. Usually read by students in Years 9, 10 or above.

When a boy has bullies, a scary monster lurking about at night, and a strange noise outside his window to contend with, the last thing he expects is for a little green tree frog to be his saviour. But he names the frog Girragundji and together they learn how to be brave and face the world together.

A colourful, engaging picture book containing a collection of poems about living in an Aboriginal community.

Wren is a planner, but breaking news of a comet hurling towards Earth leaves her careful itinerary in tatters. Left behind after her senior-year trip to London she meets cute Prince Theo, the British crown prince. Wren and the Prince are soon forced into the highest-stakes journey of them all, racing through Europe to get her back home before the end of the world. Usually read by students in years 9, 10, or above.

An anthology covering a wide range of human experiences.

Any three titles read from this series can be included as official Challenge books; up to five more titles can be included as your personal choice books. To see the individual book titles and their PRC ID numbers, go to the Series lists on the Booklists page, on the website. Or, you can search for a series name or the individual titles by using the Search function on the top left hand corner of the screen.

Young Dow Amber is no sailor. But driven by a strange sea-longing he ventures down to the great grim bay known as the Claw. He hopes there to learn of seafaring, but he finds only a fearful people who scarcely sail at all, for fear they have been cursed.

At long last a captain of his own ship, Dow Amber is determined to venture beyond the final frontier, the still, stagnant waters of the Doldrums, in search of a New World. With Nell finally by his side, he is hopeful they can start again, far from politics, betrayal and war. But, none who have sailed the Ocean of the Dead have returned to tell the tale. Before long, an old enemy appears, bringing new dangers. The fleet will either sail to certain death or to glorious new life beyond the treacherous Doldrums. The final book in the Ship Kings series.

Dow Amber has set sail at last upon the battleship, Chloe, but he wonders if an outsider and an enemy can ever truly belong in the Ship Kings' world. In the icy wastes, Dow must take his fate in hand, discover whether he is truly destined to be a mariner and determine whether the mysterious scapegoat girl, Ignella, is a friend or foe.

Dow Amber, an intrepid sailor, has been unhappily biding his time in the backwaters of the Twin Islands, while war rages on the high seas, between his brave, inventive rebels and the tyrannical Ship Kings. When an enemy sailor brings news of captured allies, Dow is driven to a daring escape plan. But, he doesn't realise the cost of escape and how troubling the thirst for revenge can become.

In 2012, Combat Engineer Curtis McGrath was serving in the Australian Army in Afghanistan when, in the line of duty, he stepped on a land mine. Just months later, Curtis was up and walking on prosthetic legs, motivated by the opportunity to march with his unit in their welcome-home ceremony. Kayaking gave him a new sense of purpose and a year later, Curtis captained the Australian team at the inaugural Invictus Games in London, founded by Prince Harry for wounded, injured or ill veterans. Then, within four years of his injury, Curtis won gold at the Rio 2016 Paralympic Games. Now a ten-time world champion gold medallist, Curtis is passionate about the power of sport to transform lives, he's ready at last to share his extraordinary story, and how he has approached every setback and challenge with courage, resilience, humour and grit. Usually read by students in years 9, 10, or above.

Saffy and Rose have a near death experience on the moors involving a party balloon. Indigo is trying to sort out everybody's love life including his own. More importantly, Caddy has found true love and is about to marry and live happily ever after. Usually read by students in years 9, 10 and above.

Any five titles read from this series can be included as official Challenge books; up to five more titles can be included as your personal choice books. To see the individual book titles and their PRC ID numbers, go to the Series lists on the Booklists page, on the website. Or, you can search for a series name or the individual titles by using the Search function on the top of the screen.

Any five titles read from this series can be included as official Challenge books; up to five more titles can be included as your personal choice books. To see the individual book titles and their PRC ID numbers, go to the Series lists on the Booklists page, on the website. Or, you can search for a series name or the individual titles by using the Search function on the top of the screen.

It's tough being the youngest and Rose is feeling lonely. The family is busy doing their own things and Rose comes home to a quiet, empty house every day. School is no longer a peaceful place either because of her new, irritating teacher, Mr Spencer. Rose is having a difficult time with reading and is deeply disappointed when no-one has time to shop for a Christmas tree.

Indigo dreads returning to school where his sensitive nature makes him a target for bullies. Enter Tom, from America, who is living with his English grandmother to avoid dealing with his divorced parents and Indigo's feisty sister, Rose. Usually read by students in Years 9, 10 and above.

Life hasn't been easy for Permanent Rose but shoplifting will only complicate it further. Lots of family secrets are uncovered, with sadness turning to forgiveness, and Rose is at last reunited with the person she loves. Usually read by students in years 9, 10 and above.

Saffy feels like an outsider until her family's actions and efforts on her behalf make her feel very loved, in this, our first meeting with the delightful, Casson family children.

Any three titles read from this series can be included as official Challenge books; up to five more titles can be included as your personal choice books. To see the individual book titles and their PRC ID numbers, go to the Series lists on the Booklists page, on the website. Or, you can search for a series name or the individual titles by using the Search function on the top left hand corner of the screen.

In Broome, a small pearling town in the heart of an ancient land, Ubby, a smart, street-wise Aboriginal girl, is the leader of a rag-tag gang, known as the Underdogs. The gang's efforts to locate Sai Fong, the Dragon Summoner, have been halted by the ambitious pearling master, Paul Donappleton. Old myths and smoky legends from an ancient scroll begin to take on new meaning and it becomes a race to unravel the truth.

It is the late 1940s and Broome, a small pearling town in the heart of an ancient land, is still recovering from WWII. Ubby and her gang of Underdogs cross into the Forbidden Zone on the Broome coastline in a desperate bid to locate their missing friend Sai Fong who has disappeared without a trace. What they encounter is worse than anything they could ever have imagined. To survive, the Underdogs must call upon the local gangs to unite, solve the mystery of the Dragon Summoner, and make contact with the mysterious Phoenix Dragon to fight the battle of all battles against an evil and unearthly enemy. What is at stake is the future of humanity itself. The third and final installment in the Ubby's Underdogs graphic novel series.

In Broome in the 1940s, the pearling town is recovering from World War II. Ubby, a street-wise Aboriginal girl, leads a rag-tag gang known as the Underdogs. When Ubby recruits Sai Fong, a Chinese girl off the boat from Shanghai, they are thrown into a series of bizarre adventures full of myths and legends, and secrets never before exposed.

Rebecca Tobler 09/23 In the scorching summer of 2033, Gilbert Black is accused of being a firebug, just like his mother was thirteen years previously. That night a fire starts on his family's farm. A fire with a tunnel in the centre of it. And that's when things start to get really weird. Pulled repeatedly back and forth through time, Gil finds himself at all the big Australian bushfires from the last two centuries. He searches across the years, determined to unlock the secret to his family's legacy. Gil can't change the past, but can he learn from it in time to return home and save his family from the biggest inferno ever known.

It's 1979 and the sky is falling. Skylab, that is. Somewhere high above Frankie Avery, one of the world's first space stations is tumbling to Earth. And rushing back with it are old memories. Things twelve-year-old Frankie thought she'd forgotten. Things her mum won't talk about, and which her little brother Newt never knew. Only ... did he? Does he? Because as Skylab circles closer, Newt starts acting strangely. And while the world watches the sky, Frankie keeps her own eyes on Newt. Because if anyone's going to keep him safe, it's her. It always has been. But maybe this is something bigger than splinters and spiders and sleepwalking. Maybe a space station isn't the only thing heading straight for calamity.

Jena's life as leader of the line, gathering mica from deep inside the mountain, is hard. But, it is all she knows, accepting everything that her community leaders tell her. After an unfortunate accident, Jena discovers a small polished stone, which brings forth buried memories from her past. These memories disrupt everything and everyone around her.

Living in the desert country of Damar, shared by the Homelanders and the secretive magical Hillfolk, orphaned Harry Crewe is kidnapped by Corlath, the Hillfolk king. He intends to train her in the arts of war until she is a match for any of his men.

Presents the fictional diary of thirteen year old Nzingha, a sixteenth-century West African princess, who loves to hunt and hopes, one day, to lead her kingdom against the invasion of the Portuguese slave traders.

Thirteen short stories about being thirteen years old written by thirteen different authors. Includes spoilt birthday parties, peer pressure, embarrassing parents, finding your identity and being true to yourself.

Bayview High is just about recovered from the death of gossip king Simon Helleher a year ago. Now there's a new copycat in town who isn't ready to forget him just yet. A school-wide game of Truth or Dare seems fun, right? But this game is lethal. Choosing the truth may reveal your darkest secrets, but accepting the dare could be dangerous - or even fatal. The teenagers of Bayview must work together once again to find the culprit, before it's too late... Usually read by students in Years 9, 10 or above.

Ever since Simon died in detention, life hasn't been easy for the Bayview Crew. First the Bayview Four had to prove they weren't killers. Then a new generation had to outwit a vengeful copycat. Now, it's beginning again. At first the mysterious billboard seems like a bad joke: Time for a new game, Bayview. But when a member of the crew disappears, it's clear this 'game' just got serious - and no one understands the rules. Everyone's a target. And now that someone unexpected has returned to Bayview, things are starting to get deadly. Simon was right about secrets - they all come out in the end. And Bayview has a lot it's still hiding. Usually read by students in years 9, 10, or above.

On Thursday afternoon, five students at Bayview High walk into detention. Bronwyn, the brain, is Yale-bound and never breaks a rule. Addy, the beauty, is the picture-perfect homecoming princess. Nate, the criminal, is already on probation for dealing. Cooper, the athlete, is the all-star baseball pitcher. And Simon, the outcast, is the creator of Bayview High's notorious gossip app. Only, Simon never makes it out of that classroom. Before the end of detention, Simon's dead. And according to investigators, his death wasn't an accident. On Thursday, he died. But on Friday, he'd planned to post juicy reveals about all four of his high-profile classmates, which makes all four of them suspects in his murder. Or are they just the perfect patsies for a killer who's still on the loose? Everyone has secrets, right? What really matters is how far you would go to protect them. Usually read by students in Years 9, 10 or above.

When Zelder translates three ancient spells she becomes the target of the sinister swordsman called the stalker. She and her brother, would-be swordsman Corram, must cheat death to stop the whole world being destroyed.

Get even follows four high school students , Bree, Olivia, Kitty and Margot who have nothing in common however someone wants to get revenge on them. This fast pace revenge story has lots of twists and turns and chapter cliffhangers.

Brontide is a coming of age story about four boys and their lot in life. Recounted through storytelling sessions at their school over a period of five days, these boys chronicle their lives. They are at times demanding, occasionally rude, always funny and unexpectedly profound. The boys like to challenge themselves and the rules, and soon realise that not everything goes to plan. Usually read by students in years 9, 10 and above.

A British family is forced to flee to Australia to escape criminals in England. This six-part thriller is exciting and suspenseful.

Stories of ghostly fiction. Usually read by students in Years 9, 10 or above.

Adam hears the tales of bravery even before the war broke out. As many did in that time he wanted to be a part of the war, not for the glory but as part of the Merchant Navy. The sea is his home and thus contains the highs and lows of any home. We follow Adam through real storms at sea along with political ones not of his making. Tempered by the sea he learns the value of trust and the friends that trust is found in and through.

More adventures of Wayne Wilson. Wayne's sister is engaged, his hideous young cousin and wonderfully eccentric grandfather come to stay and his best mate seems to upstage him on every occasion, leaving Wayne's love life in tatters.

In 1628, Veronica and her brother flee for their lives into the German woods after their father is burned at the stake. At the dawn of the eighteenth century, Scottish maid Katherine is lured into political dissent after her parents are butchered for their beliefs. In present-day Australia, Paisley navigates her way through the burning torches of small-town gossip after her mother's new-age shop comes under scrutiny. A powerful historical novel about three young women caught in the hysteria of their own times.

Awkward and allergic to the sun, sixteen year old Finbar never gets the girl. When he notices that the female students at his school are obsessed with a vampire romance novel, Finbar seizes the opportunity. He'll become a vampire. Or at least fake it. When he meets the one girl who just might like him for who he really is, he finds that his life as a pseudo-vampire is more complicated than he expected. Usually read by students in Years 9, 10 or above.

After his father mysteriously goes missing, thirteen year old Simon is invited to follow in his father's footsteps by joining a team that experiments with time travel.

Miki is entrusted to return a piece of embroidered fabric and a silk ribbon to Aiko and inherits a bossy little pixie called Nameless. Miki must unravel clues from the past to save the day.

A funny and fascinating story of contemporary Australia with a moving tale of survival in Hiroshima at the end of the Second World War. When Josh breaks his leg, he is rescued by his kind but mysterious neighbour, Mrs Murakami.

Danika Glynn is used to struggling to survive. When the tyrannous king launches an attack on her city, she risks her life in a daring escape and joins a crew of refugees, who seek Magnetic Valley, a legendary safe haven. Danika also grapples with her burgeoning magical abilities and, when she meets the mysterious Lukas, she must balance her feelings against her crew's safety.

Any three titles read from this series can be included as official Challenge books; up to five more titles can be included as your personal choice books. To see the individual book titles and their PRC ID numbers, go to the Series lists on the Booklists page, on the website. Or, you can search for a series name or the individual titles by using the Search function on the top left hand corner of the screen.

Danika and her crew of escaped refugees are seeking the safety of the Magnetic Valley and trying to evade the king's most lethal hunter. They must cross the smugglers' territory, the Borderlands, which are lawless and steeped in ancient magic. When one of the crew is badly wounded, Danika seeks the smugglers' help and accepts a bargain that might prove deadly. But, it is Lukas who hides the most dangerous secret.

Danika Glynn and her crew of refugees finally reach the Magnetic Valley. But, they don't know whether it will provide the safe refuge and land of freedom they imagine. When a runaway girl is shot down before their eyes, Danika and her friends realise that this new land is no paradise. They must try to fit in at all costs, even if revealing their secrets will mean a death sentence.

Chester is searching for clues about his father and why he disappeared. But, when he's caught illegally connecting with the Song as he plays his beloved fiddle, Chester is sentenced to death. Only a licensed Songshaper can bend music to their will. Susannah knows the secrets of The Hush, where there is no music, only deadly Echoes that will steal your soul, and she has plans for Chester.

Pearl and Vally Cole live in a bookshop. And not just any bookshop. In 1893, Cole's Book Arcade in Melbourne is the grandest bookshop in the world, brimming with every curiosity imaginable. Each day brings fresh delights for the siblings: voice-changing sweets, talking parrots, a new story written just for them by their eccentric father. When Pearl and Vally learn that Pa has risked the Arcade - and himself - in a shocking deal with the mysterious Obscurosmith, the siblings hatch a plan. Soon they are swept into a dangerous game with impossibly high stakes: defeat seven challenges by the stroke of midnight and both the Arcade and their father will be restored. But if they fail Pearl and Vally won't just lose Pa - they'll forget that he and the Arcade ever existed.

A collection of different versions of folk and fairy stories designed to encourage secondary students to consider different points of view and the ways stories can change over time.

Maybe Archie Coombes has been watching too many horror movies. All of a sudden, the most ordinary things have taken on a sinister edge: a penny on a doormat. A man in a brown suit under a streetlamp. the persistent sound of an axe chopping in the middle of the night. He keeps telling himself hat this is Seaham, a sleepy seaside town where nothing ever happens. Or at least nothing did, until his dad's construction company opened up the cliff beneath the old - some say cursed - Langdon Place. Soon, though, he and his friends can't deny it: More and more of the adults in town are acting strangely. An ancient, long-buried evil has been unleashed upon the community, and it's up to the kids to stop it before it's too late...

Benjamin and Janie are trying to live a safe, normal life in America. But, they have the power to prevent nuclear disaster and sinister forces are circling. The advice of a mysterious, unscrupulous magician propels them into danger and towards the land of the dead. When their friend, Jin Lo, washes up on a remote island and finds herself on the trail of a deadly threat in China, they must somehow reach her to help.

In 1952, after her parents are identified as communists, Janie must move from Los Angeles to the safety of London. The war has ended but it's a tense time, and Janie is uncomfortable at her new school. She notices Benjamin, a curiously defiant boy, who dreams of becoming a spy. When his father, an apothecary, is kidnapped, Benjamin and Janie are embroiled in a plot involving real espionage and nuclear threats.

It's two years since Janie Scott last saw Benjamin Burrows, the mysterious apothecary's defiant son who stole her heart. Benjamin has been experimenting with a new formula, allowing him to communicate with Janie across the globe. When a mystery threatens them all, Janie, Benjamin and their friend, Pip, are thrown into a desperate chase around the world to find one another, while trying to unravel the mystery.

Any three titles read from this series can be included as official Challenge books; up to five more titles can be included as your personal choice books. To see the individual book titles and their PRC ID numbers, go to the Series lists on the Booklists page, on the website. Or, you can search for a series name or the individual titles by using the Search function on the top left hand corner of the screen.

The classic tale of Captain Ahab who has sworn vengeance on Moby Dick, the white whale that took his leg, told through the eyes of the sailor, Ishmael. Ahab's bitter hatred threatens to destroy everyone. Evocative drawings, the gorier practices of nineteenth century whaling and insightful notes on Melville's deeper themes compellingly invite readers to discover the full text. Usually read by students in Years 9, 10 or above.

Aspiring filmmaker and wallflower Twinkle Mehra has stories she wants to tell and universes she wants to explore, if only the world would listen. So when fellow film geek Sahil Roy approaches her to direct a movie for the upcoming Summer Festival, Twinkle is all over it. The chance to publicly showcase her voice as a director? Dream come true. The fact that it gets her closer to longtime crush, Neil Roy-aka Sahil's twin brother? Dream come true x 2. Usually read by students in years 9, 10 and above. When mystery man 'N' begins emailing her, Twinkle is sure it's Neil, finally ready to begin their happily-ever-after. The only slightly inconvenient problem is that, in the course of movie-making, she's fallen in love with the irresistibly adorkable Sahil. Twinkle soon realizes that resistance is futile: The romance she's got is not the one she scripted. But will it be enough? Usually read by students in Years 9, 10 or above.

Meet Dimple. Her main aim in life is to escape her traditional parents, get to university and begin her plan for tech world domination. Meet Rishi. He's rich, good-looking and a hopeless romantic. His parents think Dimple is the perfect match for him, but she's got other plans...Dimple and Rishi may think they have each other figured out. But when opposites clash, love works even harder to prove itself in the most unexpected ways. As joyfully refreshing as Rainbow Rowell, Jenny Han and Nicola Yoon, When Dimple Met Rishi is a frothy, funny contemporary romance told from the dual perspectives of two Indian American protagonists. While Dimple is fighting her family traditions, Rishi couldn't be happier to follow in the footsteps of his parents - could sparks fly between this odd couple, or is this matchmaking attempt doomed to fail? Usually read by students in Years 9, 10 or above.

Harry is tired of being the tall new kid with red hair, big feet, and freckles. The one with the dead sister who's voice follows her every where she goes. People tell her she's imagining Sissy, but they are wrong, surely she wouldn't be such a pain if Harry was making her up? When Harry's wish for a horse comes true and Marksman comes into her life she wonders if she should have wished so hard, because Marksman is big, huge even, and Harry wonders if she has taken on more than she can deal with. But could this challenge be just what she needs to learn the difference between standing out and standing up?

Fleur's recurring nightmare is being hunted through a dark forest by a sinister archer. When her mother inherits a fabulous book collection, they travel to France together. They are in the heart of King Arthur country, steeped with mystery and hidden wealth. Fleur meets Remy, the boy of her dreams, and it's love at first sight. But, Fleur's nightmare is just about to begin. Strong language in context and mature themes. Usually read by students in years 9, 10 and above.

No props. No music. No costumes. Just you, your words and a mic-you've got two minutes to make the crowd scream your name. Miles Merrill, spoken word artist and founder of Australian Poetry Slam, and award-winning teacher Narcisa Nozica will take you from novice to spoken word superstar in no time. Twenty years after Merrill introduced poetry slams to Australia, there's a national competition with a live audience of 20,000 people! With tips from stars of the Australian poetry slam scene, including bestselling author Maxine Beneba Clarke, this book will inspire you to slam your own poetry, Usually read by students in years 9, 10 and above.

Deklan 'Dek' Archer and his mates arrive at school to a tense atmosphere. 'Old Mate', Mr Henry, who has lived in town for a long time, has been found murdered. He had been selling grog on the black market for years. To add to these worries, the Year 12s, who were on camp, are now missing. The police think there is a link between the missing students and the murder. Dek and his friends are torn. Dek and Willum, his best mate, have an important football match that evening - professional recruiters are in town. Neither wants to let their coach down but they feel they must search for their friends. Deklan's grandfather, a renowned tracker with certain otherworld gifts turns up, and expects him to go bush. This choice will change Dek's life and family forever. A journey that moves deep in to an ancient landscape uncovers secrets, and the past, which is never far away, continues to call them. Usually read by students in years 9, 10 or above.

All Gianna Zales wants to do is compete at the cross-country finals, but there is something standing in her way- a science project. She has less than a week to collect and document twenty-five leaves, and she'll lose her spot on the team if she can't pull it off. With a forgetful grandmother, a hearse-driving father, a mean-girl running rival, and new feelings toward her best friend, Gianna wishes life would just leave her alone to finish the project. Can Gianna Z get the stroke of brilliance she needs to make it all work out?

When Farren's father goes missing at sea, all he wants is for his older brother to come home from the war in Gallipoli. But, when Danny returns, he has changed from the person Farren remembers. This is a story of two brothers' struggle to make their way in a difficult world. Mature themes and very strong language used in context throughout. Usually read by students in Years 9, 10 or above.

Following the death of his older sister in a car accident, a nine year old boy is surrounded by the grief of his family.

Finn comes to the city for his first big break as a stablehand at a large racetrack. Working with the horses he loves, Finn feels valuable for the first time in his life. But there's trouble at the track, and Finn finds it difficult to know who to trust.

Is Gilbert real or a ghost? Martin doesn't much care - at least he is helping to distract his brother from his illness. Usually read by students in Years 9, 10 or above.

We first meet Marc Jarvis and his best mate, Travis, as stereotypical sports-playing, girl-ogling sixteen year olds. As the book unfolds, we see beyond the exterior as Marc makes sense of his feelings and attitudes. His views about people, loyalty, friendship, love and its loss are challenged.

In one minute of silence, you can imagine a war long gone. You can share what the soldiers saw and felt as they fought. And if you try, you might be able to imagine the enemy and see that he is not so different from you.

A novel in diary form in which the youngest daughter of Czar Nicholas II describes the privileged life her family led up until the time of World War I and the tragic events that befell them.

Isabel strives to remain on good terms with her controlling half-brother, King Enrique, and her younger sibling, the rebel King Alfonso in this tale of romance. As matches are made and broken, the princess finally weds the man of her choice.

King Gustav II Adolf desperately wanted a son to become his heir. Upon his daughter's birth, the king declared she would be treated as a boy and, someday, be King of Sweden. Kristina describes learning fencing and horseback riding.

CINDER, a gifted mechanic in New Beijing, and she's also a cyborg. She's reviled by her stepmother and blamed for her stepsister's sudden illness. But when her life becomes entwined with the handsome Prince Kai's, she finds herself at the centre of a violent struggle between the desires of an evil queen - and a dangerous temptation. Cinder is caught between duty and freedom, loyalty and betrayal. Now she must uncover secrets about her mysterious past in order to protect Earth's future.

In this third book in the Lunar Chronicles, Cinder and Captain Thorne are fugitives on the run, now with Scarlet and Wolf in tow. Together, they're plotting to overthrow Queen Levana and her army. Their best hope lies with Cress, a girl imprisoned on a satellite since childhood who's only ever had her netscreens as company. All that screen time has made Cress an excellent hacker. Unfortunately, she's just received orders from Levana to track down Cinder and her handsome accomplice. When a daring rescue of Cress goes awry, the group is separated. Cress finally has her freedom, but it comes at a higher price. Meanwhile, Queen Levana will let nothing prevent her marriage to Emperor Kai. Cress, Scarlet, and Cinder may not have signed up to save the world, but they may be the only hope the world has.

In this stunning bridge book between Cress and Winter in the bestselling Lunar Chronicles, Queen Levana's story is finally told. Fans of the Lunar Chronicles know Queen Levana as a ruler who uses her "glamour" to gain power. But long before she crossed paths with Cinder, Scarlet, and Cress, Levana lived a very different story - a story that has never been told, until now.

Any three titles read from this series can be included as official Challenge books; up to five more titles can be included as your personal choice books. To see the individual book titles and their PRC ID numbers, go to the Series lists on the Booklists page, on the website. Or, you can search for a series name or the individual titles by using the Search function on the top left hand corner of the screen.

Cinder, the cyborg mechanic, returns in the second thrilling instalment of the bestselling Lunar Chronicles. She is trying to break out of prison - even though if she succeeds, she'll be the Commonwealth's most wanted fugitive. Halfway around the world, Scarlet Benoit's grandmother is missing. When Scarlet encounters Wolf, a street fighter who may have information as to her grandmother's whereabouts, she is loath to trust this stranger, but is inexplicably drawn to him, and he to her. As Scarlet and Wolf unravel one mystery, they encounter another when they meet Cinder. Now, all of them must stay one step ahead of the vicious Lunar Queen Levana, who will do anything for the handsome Prince Kai to become her husband, her king, her prisoner.

The universe of the Lunar Chronicles holds stories - and secrets - that are wondrous, vicious, and romantic. How did Cinder first arrive in New Beijing? How did the brooding soldier Wolf transform from young man to killer? When did Princess Winter and the palace guard Jacin realise their destinies? With nine stories - five of which have never before been published - and an exclusive never-before-seen excerpt from Marissa Meyer's upcoming novel, Heartless, about the Queen of Hearts from Alice in Wonderland, Stars Above is essential for fans of the bestselling and beloved Lunar Chronicles.

Princess Winter is admired by the Lunar people for her grace and kindness, and despite the scars that mark her face, her beauty is said to be even more breathtaking than that of her stepmother, Queen Levana. Winter despises her stepmother, and knows Levana won't approve of her feelings for her childhood friend--the handsome palace guard, Jacin. But Winter isn't as weak as Levana believes her to be and she's been undermining her stepmother's wishes for years. Together with the cyborg mechanic, Cinder, and her allies, Winter might even have the power to launch a revolution and win a war that's been raging for far too long. Can Cinder, Scarlet, Cress, and Winter defeat Levana and find their happily ever afters? Fans will not want to miss this thrilling conclusion to Marissa Meyer's national bestselling Lunar Chronicles series.

Isabella Swan marries Edward Cullen and honours her commitment to become a vampire. The birth of their child places the Cullen family in great risk from the governing elite. Once again, Bella must look to her best friend, Jacob Black, for an unlikely allegiance which may save the day. Explores the consequences of power, the nature of love and loss, and the self-knowledge that comes from the journey into adulthood. Usually read by students in years 9, 10 and above.

Newborn vampires are terrorising the residents of Seattle and Bella again finds herself in grave danger. To help control the mounting chaos, Bella must try to bring the feuding vampires and werewolves together, and decide between her love for Edward and her friendship with Jacob. Usually read by students in Years 9, 10 or above.

Edward the Vampire loves Bella the human - we've followed the journey of Edward and Bella's love story through the 4 Twilight novels, now we can relive the journey through Edward's eyes. Find out how Edward felt when he first met Bella, find out how Edward fought to control his feelings both of love and violence. Midnight Sun also delves further into Edwards own history and how he came to be with the Cullen family. Usually read by students in years 9, 10, or above.

For Bella Swan, there is one thing more important than life itself, Edward Cullen. But, being in love with a vampire is even more dangerous than Bella could have imagined. Edward has already rescued Bella from the clutches of one evil vampire but, as their daring relationship threatens everything, they realise their troubles are just beginning. Usually read by students in Years 9, 10 or above.

When her mother remarries, Isabella Swan moves to sunless Forks in Washington to join her father. On her first day at school, Bella is drawn to the incredibly beautiful Edward Cullen, not knowing that he and his family are vampires. They try not to prey on humans but Bella is particularly irresistible. Bella soon realises that falling in love with a vampire can be extremely dangerous. Usually read by students in Years 9, 10 or above.

Any three titles read from this series can be included as official Challenge books; up to five more titles can be included as your personal choice books. To see the individual book titles and their PRC ID numbers, go to the Series lists on the Booklists page, on the website. Or, you can search for a series name or the individual titles by using the Search function on the top left hand corner of the screen.

Set in South Africa, orphaned Sam has to leave his affluent life in the city, his computer, his trendy clothing and his pride, to live with his aunt in a village at the back of beyond. He has to sleep on the floor in a one-roomed hut, sharing with his aunt and cousins. Sam must work out where he belongs.

Excellent book outlining the tips and techniques involved in creating cartoons. Includes links to a website for extra information, pictures and templates. Written in an easy to follow manner allowing even lesser artistic types to gain skills.

Skip is an outsider, a quiet observer, who draws pictures to make sense of the world. When war grips the city in which Skip and his mismatched family are surviving, they are forced to shelter in an empty fun fair, scavenge for food and live on their imaginations.

Alice has been twelve for a long time. Ever since she was assaulted, something inside her is broken. She has acquired brain injury and her words are slow and slurred. Alice writes poems to express what she can't say and leaves them in unexpected places for others to read. Sixteen year old Manny, once a child soldier back in his country, appears to be adapting to his new life. He has a poem and knows it off by heart. Alice and Manny weren't meant to meet each other. Mature read. Usually read by students in Years 9, 10 or above.

The butterfly is a symbol of transformation. It reminds us that we are all able to change. We can make choices and we are in control. We can choose to replace the messages that shout 'You are not enough' - not hot enough, thin enough, talented enough, popular enough. This story encourages girls to question the limiting messages our culture keeps pushing: that a girl's greatest worth is her looks, and beauty comes in only one size and shape. It inspires and empowers girls to find their strength and be true to their own hearts and minds.

Not into you? Too into you? What happens when feelings aren't mutual? When to stay and when to go? Can't handle the heartbreak? Or maybe just sick of being single? In this guide, Dannielle Miller and Nina Funnell will help you navigate your way through the often complex world of relationships. Their combination of professional expertise and personal stories delivers a book that is like the best chat you could ever have with your friends, filled with good advice that is smart, but also warm, funny and never judgemental. And determine your love-ability with the help of quizzes, Q&As, compatibility tests and true love checklist.

Blamed for the death of his mother, carrying a terrible secret from Grade 5 and in trouble with the police, Clem is now in a school for toxic teenagers. Encouraged to write Clem goes deep into the trauma that has defined his life. Issues of bullying, child abuse, family dysfunction, drugs, grief. Street language used in context.

When Claudia accidentally eavesdrops on the epic breakup of Paige and Iris, the it-couple at her school, she finds herself in hot water with prickly, difficult Iris. Thrown together against their will into a class production of A Midsummer Night's Dream, along with the goofiest, cutest boy Claudia has ever known, Iris and Claudia are in for an eye-opening senior year. Usually read by students in Years 9, 10 or above.

They say the thirst of blood is like a madness - they must sate it. Even with their own kin. On the eve of her divining, the day she'll discover her fate, seventeen-year-old Lil and her twin sister Kizzy are captured and enslaved by the cruel Boyar Valcar, taken far away from their beloved traveller community. Forced to work in the harsh and unwelcoming castle kitchens, Lil is comforted when she meets Mira, a fellow slave who she feels drawn to in a way she doesn't understand. But she also learns about the Dragon, a mysterious and terrifying figure of myth and legend who takes girls as gifts. They may not have had their divining day, but the girls will still discover their fate... Usually read by students in years 9, 10 and above.

Rodney has powers to be a 'switcher' who can travel between parallel worlds. One world is highly developed and the other is almost medieval. The story follows the adventures across both worlds.

Eleven minutes passed before Delaney Maxwell was pulled from the icy waters by her best friend, Decker. By then, her heart had stopped beating and her brain had stopped working. Delaney is declared officially dead. Then, she starts breathing and the doctors are mystified. Outwardly, Delaney has completely recovered but she knows something is wrong. Delaney finds herself drawn to the dying.

It's an ordinary morning at school in rural Kashmir when the silence of dawn prayers is ripped apart by gunfire. Freedom Fighters are raiding his village and Rafiq is the first boy to cross the chalkline into a life of brutality and violence. Rafiq's memory of his family has been all but obliterated by his forced training, indoctrination and terrorist actions and is unrecognisable as the boy who left the village. Includes violence. Usually read by students in Years 9, 10 or above.

Eran has grown up to be a passionate citizen, concerned with his community and the world. He can also be an angry young man, something he is sure he inherited from his stern and serious mother. A protest Eran organises takes an ugly turn and a viral video unlocks many secrets which Eran's mother has kept locked away. Eran is certain that his quick and fiery temperament come from his mother, but the truth forces Eran to see beyond what he has inherited and look to who he chooses to be. Usually read by students in Years 9, 10, or above.

Everyone thinks they know what Jacob O'Leary can and can't do, and they're not shy about telling him either. But, no one, not even Jacob, knows what he's truly capable of. When a shocking and mystifying crime leaves his small country town reeling, and fingers start pointing at a young Muslim boy at his school, Jacob is convinced the police have accused the wrong guy. He's determined to prove it, and himself, to everyone. Challenging book; usually read by students in Years 9, 10 and above.

Karl and his wild young brother are taken in by their aunt, after their mother abandons them. Usually read by students in Years 9, 10 or above.

Luke is interested in guns and hunting but it is the emotional crossfire between his divorced parents that has him trapped. Usually read by students in Years 9, 10 or above.

Dougy's sister, Gracey, is chosen for the State Athletics Championships but it leads to violence. It is up to Dougy to save his family from the racist war that ensues and the mysterious Moodagudda. The first book in a trilogy.

It's school holidays and Gracey is coming home to Cunningham, a remote country town. Everything looks different, even frightening. When her brother, Dougy, finds three aboriginal bones, a chain of events causes Gracey to reconnect with her Aboriginal heritage. Includes coarse language and adult themes. Usually read by students in Years 9, 10 and above.

Josh feels lost in his rapidly coming adult world. His family are haunted by the disappearance of his older brother, Michael. Josh's relationship with his girlfreind is full of teenage angst and tension. His holiday job in the lost property department with the philosophical Clive reveals that adult emotions are just as complex. Josh decides he must bring Michael home no matter what. Some strong language used in context. Usually read by students in Years 9, 10 or above.

Margot Baumann has left school to take up her sister's job in the mailroom of a large prison. But this is Germany in 1944, and the prison is Sachsenhausen concentration camp near Berlin. Margot is shielded from the camp's brutality as she has no contact with prisoners. But she does handle their mail and, when given a cigarette lighter and told to burn the letters, she is horrified by the callous act that she must carry out with her own hands. This is especially painful since her brother was taken prisoner at Stalingrad and her family have had no letters from him. So Margot steals a few letters, intending to send them in secret, only to find herself drawn to their heartrending words of hope, of despair, and of love. This is how Margot comes to know Dieter Kleinschmidt - through the beauty and the passion of his letters to his girlfriend. And since his girlfriend is also named Margot, it is like reading love letters written for her.

Young Lucien, the little boy Silvermay raised as her own, must be freed of his magic. It's not just for his sake, as Lucien might destroy the whole kingdom.

A skateboarding story with a twist.

When she laid eyes on the strange couple, young village girl Silvermay, had no idea that her life would change so completely. All she knew was that the man was handsome and every girl in the town was looking at him. When the woman collapses, Silvermay is given the task of caring for her newborn child, and she is drawn into a voyage to save the child from a dark and bloody destiny, foretold in an ancient mosaic.

Any three titles read from this series can be included as official Challenge books; up to five more titles can be included as your personal choice books. To see the individual book titles and their PRC ID numbers, go to the Series lists on the Booklists page, on the website. Or, you can search for a series name or the individual titles by using the Search function on the top left hand corner of the screen.

Terry and Liam are concerned about the contents of the box they helped carry into the derelict house of the taxidermist. Liam feels their concerns were warranted when Terry disappears.

Silvermay has followed and assisted Tamlyn through many dangers to defeat the darkness of his soul and save baby Lucien from the evil magic inside of him. If Silvermay can save Tamlyn from himself, then together they may save Lucien from the horrors Coyle wants to inflict through Lucien.

When his village is attacked, Hauk Johanson has no choice but to step up and lead the young Vikings on a quest for revenge. But there is one problem the young Vikings have never fought in battle. Can Hauk and his friends master the skills of sword and axe in time? Will the Gods be on their side? And does Hauk have what it takes to lead when the fate of an entire village lies in his hands?

Dylan Kane has never met his father. But, he has met Kirsty Beale's step-father, a brute of a man, a bully, a living-room thug. KIrsty's family is tormented by his cruelty and she is desperate to live a normal life. Dylan and Kirsty's brother hatch a plan to make him stop. A gripping and powerfully moving story of a family stretched to breaking point and a portrait of a killer. A confronting, controversial topic with inherent violence. Usually read by students in Years 9, 10 and above.

When thirteen year old Andrew Ferguson goes to stay in an old house in Ireland, he is immediately plunged into the mysteries of Irish legend.

Lara Laylor is 15 and is struggling to find her sense of self. She's always been seen as Ashley's best friend or Hannah's sister. When hher History teacher Mr Grant gives her the assignment of researching the mystery of Adelaide's Somerton Man, she is instantly transported into another world. Lara becomes a detective as she tries to find out who this mysterious man was and why he died, anonymously, on a beach. As Lara researches, she is able to ignore some of the toxic friendships and crushes happening around her. However, she needs to grow up eventually and solve her own mysteries too. Usually read by students in years 9, 10, or above.

Grace was supposed to be spending schoolies with her friends, but they have become a little too judgemental for her liking, so she tags along with her brother Casper and his friends, Noah and Elsie. On their first night away, they meet Sierra, a mysterious girl with an interesting idea. She thinks that they should go and camp on an uninhabited island. The gang agrees, and the island time is one of interesting discoveries for all of them.

Gilgamesh's story retold by Gil, himself, is a gripping blend of narrative, fantasy, history and myth, dating from around 2000 BC. It follows his quest for everlasting life which pits him against Enki the Shag and takes him to the end of the world.

The Ravens sorority are witches. They need to protect themselves and their secret. After the last semester's disaster, they are determined to restore the balance and get back to being the ruling sorority on campus. When magic starts to go wrong, and a rival sorority is gaining power, their future could be in jeopardy. Scarlett, Vivi and their sisters need to protect their coven and Westerly from an unknown evil.

At first glance, The Ravens seem like typical sorority sisters. These girls are the most admired at Westerly College. Looks can be deceiving, and these are not just girls but a coven of witches. With a new intake of Littles and a painful secret returning to haunt them, the girls will need to put rivalry aside to save a fellow sister.

It's not easy being a teenage boy growing up in the tough neighbourhood of Glebe in the 1930s. It's even harder when your dream is to become an aviator, your parents are dead against it, and your girlfriend's father is the School Principal. But Joe has even bigger challenges he must face and obstacles to overcome in order to achieve his dream. He has come up with a plan and won't let anyone stand in his way.

In 1930s Glebe, Joe Riley has to be creative to make pocket money. He's watched his dad keep ahead of the law and he's sure that he can too. When his parents send him to a Catholic boarding school, Joe is homesick and lonely. He meets the darker side of human nature and is at odds with the school, especially Brother Felix. Expelled, Joe is sent to a reform school where life is tough. But, through working the land, Joe eventually finds inner strength, peace and true freedom. Mature themes. Usually read by Years 9, 10 or above.

On the run from the redcoats, the two young highwaymen, Will and Bess, find themselves in Scotland, blamed for a murder they did not commit. They are captured by smugglers and become embroiled in religious hatred and revenge that goes back for generations. Will and Bess will have to make decisions and choices that will test their courage to the limit.

William de Lacy, the high born son of a gentleman, is on the run for stealing money and a horse. These are hanging offences and Will and the mysterious Bess must be resourceful and brave enough to survive an eighteenth century highwayman's life.

Friendships and peer groups can cause problems and upsets in your teenage years. People can be confusing- until you understand how different personality traits, stresses and emotions affect their behaviours. Yours too! This book is for anyone who wants to know how friendships work and what to do when they don't. You'll find positive advice on how to make and keep friends, as well as positive strategies to help you through the tough times and make you feel more confident.

An autobiography of three generations of Sally Morgan's Aboriginal family that traces her search for identity. Usually read by students in Years 9, 10 or above.

The first part of Sally Morgan's My Place, presented as Sally's story of her school days, her family, growing up, going to university and trying to discover her place.

Annie, young Aboriginal girl, is taken from her family in the north of Australia and sent to an institution in the distant south. Away from everything she knows and everyone she loves, Annie must make a new life in a strange world. A sister-friend brings fresh hope.

The story of Jack McPee, an itinerant station and mine worker, from the Pilbara region of Australia.Usually read by students in Years 9, 10 or above.

In 1886 a mysterious travelling circus becomes an international sensation. Open only at night, constructed entirely in black and white, the Cirque des Reves delights all who wander its circular paths and warm themselves at its bonfire. There are contortionists, performing cats, carousels and illusionists - all the trappings of an ordinary circus. But this is no conventional spectacle. Some tents contain clouds, some ice. The circus seems almost to cast a spell over its aficionados, who call themselves the reveurs - the dreamers. And who is the sinister man in the grey suit who watches over it all? Behind the scenes a dangerous game is being played out by two young magicians, Celia and Marco, who, at the behest of their masters, are forced to test the very limits of the imagination - and of love. Usually read by students in years 9, 10 and above.

Billy doesn't think or act his age. His memories of his days as a Chelsea striker and his interests keep him younger than he seems.

Lorenzo is special. He seems to be able to communicate with animals. Which is odd, because he sometimes has problems communicating with people. Lorenzo has a particular bond with the flamingos that live in huge flocks on the marshes around his home in the Camargue. Lorenzo also loves music, and routine, and every week he visits the local town market with his mother. That's where he meets Kezia, whose parents own and run the wonderful carousel that captures his attention. Kezia shows Lorenzo how to ride the wooden horse, or cheval, as her mother plays the organ and in time they become firm friends. Life is good. But then the war intrudes, the Germans finally arrive and everything that Lorenzo and Kezia hold dear is threatened, even the flamingos. Yet, where there is life, there is hope and even amongst the occupying soldiers there are kind souls.

A moving tale of secrets and survival bound together by the power of music. When Lesley is sent to interview world-renowned violinist Paulo Levi, she is told that she can ask him anything at all -- except the Mozart question and that presents no problem at all because she has no idea of what that means.

On the battlefields of World War 1, young Private Thomas Peaceful looks back over his childhood. His memories of his loving family come vividly alive. But, every moment takes Tommo closer to something he cannot bear to think about. Usually read by students in Years 9, 10 and above. Usually read by students in Years 9, 10 and above.

For ten year old Will and his mother, going to Indonesia isn't just a holiday, it's a chance to put things behind them. At first, it seems just what they both need but, then, the tsunami comes crashing in. Oona, the elephant, that Will is riding on the beach, begins to run. When the tsunami has gone, Oona keeps on running. With only a bottle of water to sustain him, Will must learn to survive deep in the jungle.

A number of Michael Morpurgo's beautifully written short stories, each one preceded by insights from the author relating to the background of the story and how he came to write it.

The suffering, loss and futility of war are shown through the intensity of one child's experiences of the outbreak of the Spanish civil war when grandfather, Antonito, recalls his life.

We are facing a global emergency. Temperatures are rising. Mass species extinction has begun. The time for denial is over. It is time to act. This book contains letters from all of us: parents and children; politicians and poets; actors and activists; songwriters and scientists. They are letters of love, loss, hope and action to a planet in crisis. They are the beginning of a new story. They are an invitation to act.

This stage adaptation of Gleitzman's novel explores disabilities, friendship and families.

A script which is as funny as the book, covering the same issues of death, cancer, AIDS and love.

Exchange student Jenna has managed to get an appointment at New York's coolest hair salon, but when her teacher insists she stays at the boring Metropolitan Museum she stumbles into ancient Egypt.

A prophecy has been spoken. A monster has awoken. As the conquering hold of the United Regions continues to spread, time is running out for Lintang, Captain Shafira and the crew of the Winda to find allies in their quest for peace. But when they arrive in war-torn Kaneko Brown, the local rebels are too scared to help. The Vierzans have summoned a category ten mythie that devours the star of anyone who dares stand against them. Worse, the mythie has been prophesied to mean the end of Captain Shafira. Lintang must find a way to stop the most dangerous mythie in the guidebook or she'll lose her beloved captain forever.

The time has come to visit the forbidden island of Allay. But first Lintang needs to find her captain, and it seems the only way to get to the Winda is to join - then escape - the Vierzan navy. Only then will Captain Shafira set sail for Allay, where the crew of the Winda must uncover what really happened to the country's missing ruler. When disaster strikes, and Lintang is separated from her captain again, she and her friends must sneak through the heart of Allay, battle terrifying new mythies and overcome Captain Shafira's enemies to return to where they belong. Lintang was left behind once. She won't let it happen again.

Lintang dreams of having adventures on the High Seas. When a deadly mythie attacks the same day the infamous Captain Shafira visits her island, Lintang gets her chance, defending her village with the bravery that earns her a place on the pirate queen's ship. But they've barely left the island when Lintang discovers her best friend, Bayani, has stowed away. Telling Captain Shafira means betraying her friend, but keeping Bayani's secret risks everything...including their lives.

It is Shanghai in 1920. While on board the Expedient, Doug and Becca stumble across an amazing secret. What unfolds is a story of two young people caught up in an astonishing adventure and a story of an ancient order created to protect the world from evil. Book 1 of The Guild trilogy.

Becca and Doug are back at their old family home in India, where they discover research papers containing clues to the expedition route of their missing parents and the location the fabled Storm City. Soon, they are on a perilous journey to the Takla Makan desert, racing against the enemy by steam train, riverboat and airship across the Himalayas. Book 3 of The Guild Trilogy.

Battered by a typhoon, the Expedient is shipwrecked on a volcanic island in the Celebes Sea. There is no radio, no rescue and no escape. Doug and Becca MacKenzie's search for their missing parents must wait. When they unearth a strange riddle, Doug and Becca wonder if it holds the key to the dark secrets of the Guild and a means to escaping the island. Book 2 of The Guild trilogy.

Any three titles read from this series can be included as official Challenge books; up to five more titles can be included as your personal choice books. To see the individual book titles and their PRC ID numbers, go to the Series lists on the Booklists page, on the website. Or, you can search for a series name or the individual titles by using the Search function on the top left hand corner of the screen.

Georgia and Julius meet in an adolescent mental health unit and in a flashback format we gradually find out about the events that led them to both be there. This novel explores highly believable political events in London and Nigeria and explores how Georgia and Julius both ended up in way deeper than they liked. This story is focused on social media and how its impact influences us all. Usually read by students in years 9, 10, or above.

Harry and Charlie are teenagers whose lives are shaped by a society that's shifting around them. He is a lonely Brit in his first term at a Las Vegas high school. She is an unlikely friend, who gets accused of mixing a batch of explosives that blew up a football player. The two of them are drawn together at a time when gene editing technology is starting to explode. With a lab in the garage anyone can beat cancer, enhance their brain to pass exams, or tweak a few genes for that year-round tan and perfect beach body. But in the wrong hands, cheap gene editing is the most deadly weapon in history. Killer T is a synthetic virus with a ninety per-cent mortality rate, and the terrorists who created it want a billion dollars before they'll release a vaccine.

Robin is a skilled archer but when his archery gets him in trouble with the leader of the town gangsters, he heads for the Sherwood Forest to stay alive. However, unlike his classic counterpart, this twenty-first century Robin uses his computer hacking skills to steal from the rich and give to the poor.

Written by Aunty Fay Muir, an Elder and Traditional Owner of Boon Wurrung Country. She is the senior linguist at the Victorian Aboriginal Corporation for Languages in Melbourne. This collection of definitions, words and phrases is titled Nganga, which is defined on page 84 as "a word from Boon Wurrung language, meaning to see and understand".

Three friends are living on a heap of trash, a lifetime of sifting rubbish. One day they find something extraordinary. From that moment on they are hunted without mercy. But they can't run forever. The reality of a slum society in the modern world combined with an action packed mystery.

When World War II is declared in 1939, Peter and his friend, Tony, put their ages up and enlist in the Australian army. Written as diary entries, giving a gripping and informative insight into their experiences in the Middle East, particularly at Tobruk. Provides a clear picture of the challenges and horrors of war. Usually read by students in Years 9, 10 and above.

Indiana Pacer, Chris Mullin, introduces this fascinating new guide to basketball. He draws on his wealth of experience in America's National Basketball Association to show beginners all aspects of the game.

Loads of information are packed into each title of this series about world inventors and innovative thinkers, including time lines, sidebars, a glossary, maps, rare photographs, and world-class writing that makes these books accessible and dramatic.

With seemingly impossible escapes and incredible feats of illusion, Harry Houdini lived a life so fantastic that it seems almost too amazing even for fiction. Beyond his on-stage magic, Houdini was an airplane pioneer, movie star and debunker of frauds. One of his greatest tricks was hanging by his ankles, wrapped in a straightjacket, and freeing himself in less than three minutes.

One of the great thinkers of all time, Thomas Jefferson helped shape America in its early years. He was the third President of the United States and is famous for writing the Declaration of Independence. He was also a scientist, inventor, farming pioneer and educator.

In 1860, Robert Burke, accompanied by William Wills and a party of explorers, was prepared to risk everything to become the first European to cross the Australian continent from south to north. A few months later, a tree bore a strange carving, Dig under 3 ft NW. Burke, Wills and five other men were dead. A compelling account of a journey that was in trouble even before it began.

Self-proclaimed fat girl Willowdean Dickson has always been at home in her own skin. Her thoughts on having the ultimate bikini body? Put a bikini on your body. When until Will takes a job at the local fast food joint, she meets Private School Bo -- a hot former jock. Will is unsurprised to find herself attracted to Bo. But she is surprised when he seems to like her back. Instead of finding new heights of self-assurance in her relationship with Bo, Will starts to doubt herself. So she sets out to take back her confidence by doing the most horrifying thing she can imagine: entering the Miss Clover City beauty pageant -- along with several other unlikely candidates -- to show the world that she deserves to be up there as much as any twiggy girl does. Along the way, she'll shock the hell out of Clover City -- and maybe herself most of all. Usually read by students in years 9, 10 and above.

When Australia supported Britain in its fight against Germany, young teacher Stan Moore was one of the first to join up, swapping the classroom for adventure in Europe. But the 11th Battalion was sent, with the newly formed Anzac Corp, to Gallipoli where Stan confronted the hard lessons of war. The conditions were dismal and death was everywhere. So, too, were times of humour and bravery.

Priscilla Daalman is training to be a Hollow Warrior - an elite monster hunter charged with killing evil beasts from another universe. But first, she has to deal with the Renegades, a rebellious group of outcasts who have declared war on the warriors and are unleashing deadly beasts across the globe. With everyone under attack by both Renegades and Hollow monsters, Priscilla decides the best way to fight is from within - so she cuts herself off from her girlfriend and family and becomes a spy in the Renegades' base. It's a bold plan - and one that doesn't account for her duplicitous ex-boyfriend, Dominic, being a leader of the rebellious group. As Priscilla struggles to remain undetected in the Renegade base, she realises Dominic has his own agenda - and she's part of it. And in order to stop him - and the Renegades - she may have to make the ultimate sacrifice... Usually read by students in Years 9, 10 or above.

Seventeen-year-old Priscilla Daalma's entire family are Hollow Warriors - legendary monster hunters charged with killing evil beasts from beyond our universe. She's desperate to live up to that legacy, but she's convinced neither she, nor her superpower - the ability to sense Hollow energy - is up to the task. But when Priscilla attempts a desperate ritual to enhance her abilities, she accidentally triggers a frightening new power: the power to summon monsters from the Hollow itself. Now, Priscilla must protect her loved ones from supernatural monsters, and also from herself. Because if her power gets out, all hell will break loose ... and Priscilla will risk losing everything. Usually read by students in years 9, 10, and above.

When his mother dies, Paddy runs away from school and stows on a ship sailing to Australia. In his new land, Paddy is willing to try anything and has many jobs until he finally discovers what he really wants to do.

Bridie starts a new life in a new country, a young, orphaned, Irish girl sadly separated from her brother. Working in the theatre on the Australian goldfields is a very hard life. Bridie finds a way to use her talents and meets her true love. Usually read by students in Years 9, 10 and above.

In the fifties, Colm McCabe is sent from England to an Australian orphanage. He suffers terribly under the cruel nuns and brothers. His faith shines through as he searches for self and family. Strong language used frequently in context. Usually read by students in Years 9, 10 or above.

Stories of children famous for their talent, fortunes, protests, rebellion, prayers, heroism or just for hanging on through oppression and war, such as a young Genghis Khan, a seventeen year old maths professor, the wolf girls and a chess genius.

Armistice Day, 11 November, 1918 is also Tiney's 17th birthday and heralds a change for all. The family eagerly awaits the return of their only son and brother and mourns with friends and relatives of those who will not return. Life in Adelaide during the war has not been easy for families, but for those returning life will never be the same. The following years bring the Spanish flu epidemic, broken families and the beginnings of new ones.

In 1910, thirteen year old Poesy Swift has the opportunity to join a travelling performance troupe, she's excited about seeing the world and leaving her drab life in Melbourne. But, the trip heads to India instead of America and, as India simmers with the tension of a crumbling Empire, the troupe is gradually torn apart by ill fortune, sickness and tension. Based on the true story of the Lilliputian Opera Company.

A collection of science fiction and fantasy writing, including six graphic stories, showcasing twenty exciting writers and artists from India and Australia. Dive into these stories and see how girls cope with the dangers of worlds gone mad. Every story is a journey and each story has its own magic. Includes some violence. Usually read by students in Years 9, 10 or above.

Cedar hangs out on the edges of the neighbourhood social circuit with her dog and best friend. Things change when she meets a boy called Kite and finds they have a lot in common. Together they form a circus troupe and put on a performance.

Spud is angry since her mother died. She is befriended by an old woman who helps her with her grief. A family drama that deals with relationships, friendship and loneliness. Usually read by students in Years 9, 10 or above.

A collection of fifteen monologues, written for students to be able to use in solo performances. Each monologue quickly establishes character, mood and themes relevant to students. In turn funny, confronting, surprising and touching. Some language and adult concepts. Usually read by students in Years 9, 10 or above.

This collection of eight plays includes information on the major elements of drama, explores different performance styles, plays with traditional tales and shines a light on contemporary Australian issues. Explores themes of friendship, racism, violence, sport, music and family relationships. Usually read by students in years 9, 10 and above.

Jonny has a faulty heart and his time is running out. Niamh has just lost her twin brother in a tragic accident. As their fates collide, soon Jonny is on the mend, but desperate to know more about his donor. When he tracks down Niamh, he only intends to find out about her brother, the first owner of his heart; but he doesn't plan on falling in love...A stunning, tear-jerking novel about grief, guilt, and the unpredictability of love.

Any three titles read from this series can be included as official Challenge books; up to five more titles can be included as your personal choice books. To see the individual book titles and their PRC ID numbers, go to the Series lists on the Booklists page, on the website. Or, you can search for a series name or the individual titles by using the Search function on the top left hand corner of the screen.

With an embarrassing Dad, a pregnant Mum, a loser brother and knicker-chewing dog, Cassidy feels practically invisible in her family. When she starts high school and is forced to wear her gross big brother's old blazer and old-lady lace up shoes, Cassidy wonders if life can get any worse. But, when her school has a test and she is marked as gifted and talented, Cassidy starts to have a little faith in herself. Surely the school didn't mistake her picked-at-random answers.

Cassidy can't wait to enrol at Dance and Drama Academy summer school. She's always dreamed of discovering her hidden talent. But, with auditions looming, Cassidy is gripped by stage fright. As big brother, Liam, keeps reminding her, she does have a knack for embarrassing herself. Cassidy is terrified that her stage debut will turn out to be an all-singing, all-dancing disaster.

When Cassidy starts an online petition for a uniform change, she is thrilled to be invited to join the school magazine as a reporter. The editor is the very popular Year 10 girl. But, her plans go pear-shaped when her investigations mysteriously end up online. Cassidy must find out who is leaking her top-secret gossip.

Millie lives in the bush with her mother and sister when, with the help of an old charm, she gains access to the past. There we meet Charlotte Atkinson, whose family is in danger of losing their beloved home, as well as their lives, due to marauding convicts, bushrangers and an abusive stepfather. The law is against Charlotte and her mother, but they're determined to survive. Usually read by students in Years 9, 10 or above.

When Claire finds an old star-shaped brooch covered in sequins, it hurtles her back in time to 1932, when Australia was in the grip of the Great Depression. When she gets a job in a circus, Claire makes friends with Rosina, Jem and a boy called Kit. When Kit is kidnapped, the others must try to save him. But, Claire is wondering just who Kit and Rosina really are. One is escaping poverty and the other is escaping wealth.

Join maverick inventor Steve Mushin as he tackles climate change with an avalanche of mind-bending, scientifically plausible inventions to rewild cities and save the planet. Jump into his brain as he designs habitat-printing robot birds and water-filtering sewer submarines, calculates how far compost cannons can blast seed bombs (over a kilometer), brainstorms bio-materials with scientists and engineers, studies ecosystems, and develops a deadly serious plan for future cities. A tour-de-force of extreme problem solving for anyone who loves big ideas.