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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

"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.

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 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.