Booklists

Alexander is a Jewish boy during World War II and is being held in a camp. To survive, he toughens up and vows to make friends with nobody. He is given the job of caring for the soldiers' horses, where he is ordered to break in the commander's new horse, who is scared and damaged. Usually read by students in Years 9, 10 or above.

For Marie-Laure, blind since the age of six, the world is full of mazes. The miniature of a Paris neighbourhood, made by her father to teach her the way home. The microscopic layers within the invaluable diamond that her father guards in the Museum of Natural History. The walled city by the sea, where father and daughter take refuge when the Nazis invade Paris. And a future which draws her ever closer to Werner, a German orphan, destined to labour in the mines until a broken radio fills his life with possibility and brings him to the notice of the Hitler Youth. In this magnificent, deeply moving novel, the stories of Marie-Laure and Werner illuminate the ways, against all odds, people try to be good to one another. Usually read by students in years 9, 10 and above.

The icon-maker and angel-summoner Liliath, long believed dead, has woken from her century long sleep to pick up the threads of a plan that has already destroyed one kingdom and may yet destroy another. To succeed, Liliath must bring together Agnez the musketeer, Simeon the doctor, Dorotea the mage, and Henri, one of the Cardinal's clerks...and take them into utmost danger. Set in an alternative seventeenth century where angels can be summoned to do the bidding of those with a talent for magic, Angel Mage is an action-packed story of angels, heroes, gunpowder and high magic. Usually read by students in Year 9, 10 and above.

The soldiers she saved called her the Angel of Waterloo. The husband she loved and lost called her Hen. The patients she treated in secret called her Auntie Love. She was Henrietta Bartlett, a surgeon's daughter, a survivor of the Napoleonic Wars. But now the battlefield is just a blood-soaked memory, and Hen dreams of peace, a home, and a society that allows women to practise medicine. On the other side of the world, the newly founded colony of New South Wales seems a paradise. But Europe's wars cast long shadows .. Usually read by students in years 9, 10, or above.

Mary and her sister, Jane, always longed to be carried off by a handsome poet. The reality of life with Percy Shelley and Lord Byron is a combination of romance and tragedy. Adult themes around their liberated behaviour may offend some readers. Usually read by students in Years 9, 10 or above.

On 6 November 1939, Anna's father had to go away for a few hours. He left shortly after eleven o'clock and did not come back again. Seven year old Anna is locked out of the apartment and alone. She is hungry and scared, and unsure who she can trust or who she can turn to. Usually read by students in Years 9, 10 or above.

A simply written, moving account of Australian and New Zealand soldiers' dramatic experiences at Gallipoli, which includes extracts from their letters and diaries, along with graphic photographs. Usually read by students in years 9, 10 and above.

Siki rises to the rare position of girl-warrior in an Apache tribe. She witnesses the horrors of the Indian wars against the Mexicans and the invading White Eyes. A sometimes violent and very honest story of courage, integrity, betrayal, love, hope and despair as Siki struggles to belong and learns the truth of her own story. Usually read by students in years 9, 10 and above.

Lottie collects dead creatures and lovingly cares for them, hoping to preserve them, to save them from disintegration. Her father understands - Lottie has a scientific mind, he thinks. Her aunt wants it to stop, and she goes to cruel lengths to make sure it does. And her mother? Lottie's mother died long ago. And Lottie is searching for a way to be close to her. Usually read by students in Years 9, 10 or above.

In Jharia, India,Valli spends her days picking up coal and fighting with her cousins. Her family won't let her go to school and there's never enough food. When Valli discovers that her 'aunt' is a stranger who was paid to take her, she leaves Jharia and begins a new life, surviving on the streets of Kolkata. A chance encounter with a doctor may change her life but Valli must decide if she trusts enough to accept help. Usually read by students in Years 9, 10 or above.

In 1941, fifteen year old Lina is preparing for art school and looking forward to summer. When the Soviet secret police invade her home and forcibly remove Lina, her mother and brother, they must fight for their lives. They are transported via cattle trucks from Lithuania to remote Siberia in a harrowing, violent journey. It is also a story of incredible courage and strength. Includes violence and cruelty. Usually read by students in Years 9, 10 or above.

The infamous Black Jack Anderson, Australia's most notorious pirate, was a towering black American holed up with his evil-doing gang in the treacherous seas and islands off the south west coast of Australia. The fascinating details of his life and times; his mistresses, the treachery, bloodshed and escapes are as compelling as his personality, with his resourcefulness, power and passion. Usually read by students in Years 9, 10 or above.

In 1950s Germany, the war is over but, for the resistance, the fight continues. Death camp survivor, Yael, who has the power to skinshift, to change her appearance at will, is on the run after shooting and killing Hitler. But, the truth of what happened is far more complicated and the consequences are deadly. As Yael and her comrades move into enemy territory, trying to turn the tide against the New Order, dark secrets reveal dark truths. Sequel to Wolf by Wolf. Includes violence. Usually read by students in Years 9, 10 or above.

After the shipwreck of the Batavia off Western Australia in 1629, a cabin boy and a soldier were involved in a grisly, notorious mutiny. Most mutineers were hanged but the two men were marooned on the mainland, becoming Australia's first European settlers. No trace of them was ever found. Later European explorers reported seeing Aboriginal Australians with blue eyes. This novel suggests what might have happened in between. Usually read by students in Years 9, 10 or above.

The Kosa empire roils in tension, on the verge of being torn apart by a proletarian revolution between magic-endowed elites and the superstitious lower class, but seventeen-year-old Toma lives blissfully disconnected from the conflict in the empire with her adoptive family of benevolent undead. When she meets Vanya, a charming commoner branded as a witch by his own neighbors, and the dethroned Tsar Mikhail himself, the unlikely trio bonds over trying to restore Mikhail's magic and protect the empire from the revolutionary leader, Koschei, whose forces have stolen the castle. Vanya has his magic, and Mikhail has his title, but if Toma can't dig deep and find her power in time, all of their lives will be at Koschei's mercy. Usually read by students in Years 9, 10 or above.

In Tuscany, 1096 AD, Luca sees demons. He keeps quiet about what he sees to avoid another exorcism. He also has dreams that sometimes predict the future. When Luca dreams his father's murder, he vows to stop it coming true. Suzan has dreams too. Consigned with her mute mother to a life in a convent, Suzan has a vision of a boy with an ancient book that holds some inscrutable power. He will take her on an adventure that leads to places beyond their understanding. Usually read by Years 9, 10 or above.

It is 1939 in Nazi Germany. Death has never been busier and will become busier still. Liesel has just buried her brother when she picks up a book, partially hidden in the snow by his graveside. This is her first act of book thievery and the beginning of a love affair with books and words. When Liesel's foster family hides a Jewish man in their basement, Liesel's world is both opened up and closed down. A sombre theme that includes some violence. Usually read by students in Years 9, 10 or above.

Bruno is the naive, nine year old son of the Commandant of Auschwitz concentration camp. Through his covert friendship with Shmuel, a young Jewish boy, Bruno becomes aware of the cruelty and suffering. A touching, disturbing story. Usually read by students in Years 9, 10 or 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.

Sophie, the diarist, is sixteen and lives in a crumbling castle on the tiny island kingdom of Montmaray with her tomboy sister, her nearly perfect cousin and the completely mad King. She loves it. The war woes of Europe rage about them, sometimes terrifyingly touching their lives, as they struggle to survive. With love interests, humour, suspense and secrets. Usually read by students in Years 9,10 or above.

There are steps that must be done, and once done, another step awaits. The last step, after six years of minute planning by her grandmother, is a bus ride away. In A-ma-ri-lo her baby brother has to be waiting. In her imaginings, he is always waiting. Usually read by students in years 9, 10, or above.

Moa has spent his life toiling on the Frontier sugar cane plantation fearing the vicious whips the overseers. When he hears of an uprising, he is ready to be a cane warrior and fight to free his people. He is still only a boy and will have to confront terrifying tasks to survive and succeed. Usually read by students in years 9, 10, or above.

In Austen's society, there are two outcomes to love. Either your heart is broken or your love is returned leading to a lifetime of child-bearing and preserve-making. Find out whether Jane Austen ever met her real life Mr Darcey. Usually read by students in years 9, 10 and above.

This story follows two very different battles for independence, that of slave girl, Isabel, and the American War of Independence. Presents a realistic view of prejudice and slavery in 18th century America and includes some violence. Usually read by students in Years 9, 10 or 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.

Mileva's family tree includes resistance fighters and patriots, and she was raised on the values of brotherhood and unity. Marko was born into a family where love is earned, not given, and was branded early on as a troublemaker and a lost cause. Despite their differences, the two grow to become best friends. Yet as the 1990s approach, Yugoslavia begins to crumble and ethnic tensions arise. No longer inseparable, their different cultural backgrounds force Mileva and Marko apart. Through tragic events Mileva struggles to make sense of her identity as she attempts to salvage all that is left of the life and love she once had. Usually read by students in years 9, 10 and above.

The last thing Jacob Portman saw before the world went dark was a terrible, familiar face. Suddenly, he and Noor are back in the place where everything began - his grandfather's house. Jacob doesn't know how they escaped from V's loop to find themselves in Florida. But he does know one thing for certain: Caul has returned. After a narrow getaway from a blood-thirsty hollow, Jacob and Noor reunite with Miss Peregrine and the peculiar children in Devil's Acre. The Acre is being plagued by desolations - weather fronts of ash and blood and bone - a terrible portent of Caul's amassing army. Jacob and his friends will face deadly enemies and race through history's most dangerous loops in this thrilling page-turner, the final adventure in the beloved Miss Peregrine's Peculiar Children series. Usually read by students in years 9, 10, or above.

The world knows the name William Shakespeare, but what of the man behind the name- the husband, lover, son and poet? Was he happy with his riches? Who was the woman he truly loved? And could the acclaimed playwright put down his pen forever to become a gentleman? Written by Australian Children's Laureate Jackie French and based on new documentary evidence, this story is a fascinating glimpse into a life that might have been and a story that has never been told. Usually read by students in Years 9, 10 or above.

When two rival journalists find love through a magical connection, their fate depends on their facing the depths of hell......together. The first book in a new duology, begins with an epic enemies-to-lovers fantasy novel, filled with hope and heartbreak whilst fighting a war, and the unparalleled power of love. Usually read by students in years 9, 10, or above.

Ardavan is a young Parthian soldier whose mother was a Roman. After the disastrous Battle of Carrhae, many Roman soldiers lie dead on the battlefield and the survivors must serve Parthia as mercenaries. Able to communicate with both sides, Ardavan is raised to a special position where he and the beautiful Shara must survive in a world of intrigue and plots. Usually read by students in Years 9, 10 or above.

Ellie's recount of harrowing experiences in a concentration camp. Taken at thirteen years of age, from her beautiful home and imprisoned in Auschwitz and Dachau as part of Hitler's final solution, she emerges a year later, looking like a sixty year old. Usually read by students in Years 9, 10 or above.

Sara, a strong and resourceful young woman, escapes with her father from Carthage by sea to face the hostile Roman navy and pirates. The naval tactics, medicine and international relations of the third century, and the insights into trades such as jewellery and sword-making, are an exciting backdrop to their perilous voyage and the political intrigue they encounter. Usually read by students in Years 9, 10 or above.

Living one hundred years apart, two seventeen year old men are artists and share a love of painting. In 1915, Maurice enlists to fight in World War l and his story allows us to see the brutality and futility of war, as well as the friendship and loyalty that develops. A century later, it is Maurice's diary, preserved in a tin box, that saves his deeply-troubled nephew, Oliver, from entering a downward spiral. Usually read by students in Years 9, 10 and above.

Lucas' grandfather has died and his mother decides they should stick with their plan to spend summer in his home, even though he is no longer there to enjoy their visit. A chance encounter with Caitlin from next door, a girl he only vaguely remembers from his childhood summer visits, reveals the stark truth that his grandfather's past is a mystery he may wish he hadn't revealed. And when he and Caitlin are faced with a life or death situation, Lucas finds himself being compared to his grandfather for all the wrong reasons. Usually read by students in Years 9, 10 and above.

As nations scramble to avert war, Sophie FitzOsborne and her eccentric family shelter in England. In keeping with high society expectations, Aunt Charlotte wants to marry off Sophie and Veronica. Toby is charming and lazy, Henry is driving the governess mad and Simon and Veronica's battle of wills continues. Sophie tries to keep her family together, when everything is falling apart. Usually read by students in Years 9,10 or above.

The epic battle between man and monster reaches its greatest pitch in the famous story of Frankenstein. In trying to create life, the young student Victor Frankenstein unleashes forces beyond his control, setting into motion a long and tragic chain of events that brings Victor himself to the very brink. How he tries to destroy his creation, as it destroys everything Victor loves, is a powerful story of love, friendship... and horror. 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.

In Cairo, fifteen year old Aaron makes a living gathering garbage. But, Aaron has dreams of a better life, which includes Rachel who looks after the ponies that pull the stinking garbage carts. Aaron's skill at sorting glass is the only thing that keeps him alive. His mother is dead and his stepfather and stepbrother bully him. Aaron makes a choice that changes his life. Usually read by students in Years 9,10 or above.

Australia's gold rushes of the nineteenth century produced tremendous wealth and population growth for the struggling Australian colonies. People from all walks of life made the perilous journey to the goldfields, returning either fabulously wealthy or demoralised and broke. It was a time of huge political, social and cultural change. Includes diaries, journals, letters, official reports, newspaper articles of the time. A challenging read. Usually read by students in Years 9,10 or above.

As an Aztec maiden, Itacate is destined to a lifetime of submission and domestic drudgery until the Spanish invaders come and violently turn her world of savage blood sacrifices and cultural boundaries upside down. Her strength of character, great skill in her father's profession and her love for a young invader help her endure tragedy and hardship in a harsh adult world. Usually read by students in years 9, 10 and above.

My name is Johannes and this is the story of how an evil ogre named Hitler swallowed Frau Marks, Helga and I. But we survived. Now we need to learn how to live, and love again. Usually read by students in Years 9, 10 or above.

Nicki Greenberg's adaptation of The Great Gatsby brings to life the grand and crumpled dreams of F. Scott Fitzgerald's unforgettable characters. In the exquisitely realised setting of 1920s New York, a throng of fantastical creatures play out the drama, the wry humour and the tragedy of the novel. Usually read by students in years 9, 10 and above.

Fifteen year old Khalid isn't too excited about visiting his family in Pakistan but his Mum and Dad want him to go with them. For Khalid, a living nightmare begins. He is kidnapped and forced to go to a place no teenager should ever see, a place where torture and terror are considered normal. Usually read by students in Years 9, 10 or above.

Three women from very different backgrounds meet on the long sea voyage from their homeland of England to Sydney. They quickly bond in an unlikely friendship. Indulged and wealthy, Kat Fitzhubert, has been sold in an arranged marriage to someone in the new colony. Lady Viola Montefiore is a dark skinned lady that her family has kept hidden and then shipped to the new colony. Titiana Boot is as broad as a carthorse and as useful. Jackie French defies the myth of colonial women in the 1850s as merely wives, servants, or petty thieves. Instead she portrays them as businesswomen, farmers, bushrangers and illegal brewers. All of this happens as the convict colony reinvents itself into a land of gold rushes and illusive riches. Usually read by students in years 9, 10 and 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.

Alexa, the headstrong teenage daughter of a landowning family in 475 England, dreams of breeding fine horses. When she meets Artorius, a boy who dreams of victory, fighting the barbarians from horseback, Alexa finds allies to help extricate herself from her mother's plans. She finds herself in an uncertain, bloodthirsty world, where life has little value when measured against power and wealth. Usually read by students in Years 9, 10 or above.

Two tales twist together at 203 Liberty Street, Newtown. In 1985, sixteen year old Evie and her family move into a new home, which appears to be haunted. Evie dreams of running footsteps, shouting voices and loud banging. Fifty years previously, during the Great Depression, Lizzie and her family live at number 203. Her family faces eviction and the local communist movement barricades the house. The final chapters reveal the connections between the past and the present. Usually read by students in Years 9, 10 or above.

Ivy, a common, laudanum addict living with thieves and scoundrels, is a stunner, a term for an artist's model and beauty. After embarking on a life of crime in London, she is sold out by her adopted family and falls victim to a pre-Raphaelite painter's jealous mother. 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.

Based on the experience of real-life Auschwitz prisoner Dita Kraus, this is the incredible story of a girl who risked her life to keep the magic of books alive during the Holocaust. Usually read by students in years 9, 10 and above.

In Melbourne, in 1943, Mirabel is seventeen. She's leaving school, designing drsses and falling in love. Then, fate intervenes, her forbidden affair is discovered and JJ is posted back to China where a civil war is raging. Despite all warnings, Mirabel sets off for Shanghai and travels through great danger to find her true love. Usually read by students in Years 9, 10 and above.

Karim and his seventeen year old brother, Jamal, live with their family in Ramallah, Palestine under Israeli military occupation. During the war, Karim meets Hopper, a teenager living in a refugee situation and, together, they fight to claim a little piece of ground for their sporting matches. Yet, even this is claimed by Israeli tanks and the boys experience a fight for their lives. Usually read by students in years 9, 10 and above.

Told from the perspective of the elder of two daughters, this novel deals with the emotional struggle of an ex-Vietnam War nurse, and the ongoing impact of the war on her family. Usually read by students in Years 9, 10 or above.

Milad decides to go on one sea voyage to save his family's fortunes and embarks on a journey where he will find sea-battles, pirates, treasure, spies, perils and love. As part of a Phoenician fleet in the service of King Solomon, he experiences danger on the high seas and in deepest Africa, but he also finds the truest of friends in unexpected places. 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.

With the overthrow of the Shah in Iran, the very conservative, religious government controls every facet of life. Fifteen year old Farrin must keep quiet about her mother's political activities and lavish lifestyle. When Farrin meets funny, outgoing Sadira and they fall in love, the relationship takes a dangerous turn. It is against the law to be gay, the punishment is death. Some violence, 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.

In 1789, the new colony in Sydney is established. Nanberry is an Aboriginal boy who is raised by Surgeon John White and witnesses the struggles of the colonists to survive in the wilderness. Follow Nanberry and his white brother as they make their way in the world, as well as the young convict woman who becomes a lady in her own right. Usually read by students in Years 9, 10 or above.

Three teenagers flee their homes for different reasons and are desperate to get to England. They entrust their lives to a people smuggler and quickly learn that he can't be trusted. Follow each of their journeys as they seek asylum. Based on the true experiences of children caught up in the refugee jungle of Calais and striving to find a place for themselves in the world. Includes adult themes and violence. Usually read by students in Years 9, 10 or above.

Drita, an Albanian, and Zoran, a Serb, become friends but this is Kosovo, and Serb-Albanian tension is rising. They find their families are now enemies and they are forced to meet in secret. They are about to begin a fight for their lives. Usually read by students in Years 9, 10 and above.

Hilly and her brother, Egg, were promised sunshine, plenty of food and someone to look after them. When they arrived from England, they were separated. Hilly was sent to a cruel orphanage in Adelaide. Includes mature themes and some strong language. Usually read by students in Years 9, 10 and above.

Billie Jo describes the difficulties of rural life in Oklahoma during the dust storms of 1934 and 1935, the brutal reality of her mother's death, her own injuries and her father's illness. Billie Jo's story is dark and intriguing, with a trace of hope. Usually read by students in Years 9, 10 or above.

This story depicts the injustice and brutality of life for a young girl under Taliban rule in Afghanistan. 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.

The gripping story of a young girl's journey in search of her family somewhere in war-ravaged Afghanistan, and of her courage and compassion in the face of many shocking hardships along the way. Usually read by students in Years 9, 10 or above.

New York violin prodigy Etta loses everything one night when she is pulled through time to 1776 to the midst of a fierce sea battle. Etta discovers that the powerful Ironwood family are looking for a long lost object that could remake the future, and they think Etta holds the clue to finding it. Along with the swashbuckling privateer Nicholas, who has his own painful history with the Ironwood family, Etta must embark on a perilous journey across centuries and continents to piece together the clues and stay one step ahead of the Ironwood clan. Usually read by students in Years 9, 10 or above.

During the Plague in London in 1665, Rachel fears for her life and that of her missing cousin when, one day, he fails to return. Robert's side of the story is also told. Contains violence and gruesome facts in context. 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.

For Gretchen Muller, Hitler is her friendly uncle who has always been there for her and her family since the death of her father. But, as Hitler's hold over Germany strengthens, he will be forever changed in Gretchen's eyes. She will do anything to uncover the truth, with the help of a young Jewish reporter. Contains some violence. Usually read by students in Years 9, 10 or 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.

At 15, Lene is questioning everything. She is sick of the compulsory League of German Girls meetings, and everyone being made to fight for a final victory that never seems to come. She is in love with Ludwig, who lives upstairs and listens to enemy broadcasts. Like Lene, he rejects the war and the endless Nazi indoctrination. When Ludwig is ordered to the Eastern Front, can Lene and Ludwig hold on to their promise to one another and resurface from the darkness of the abyss in post-war Berlin? Usually read by students in years 9, 10 and 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.

Yann Margoza, a gypsy boy with supernatural gifts, raised by a dwarf, Tetu, is pursued by the sinister, truly-evil Count Kalliovski who holds half the French aristocracy in his power. Yann meets Sidonie, the unloved daughter of the Marquis of Villeduval. Suddenly, all their lives, present, past and future are intertwined against the momentum and violence of the French Revolution. Usually read by students in years 9, 10 and above.

For three sisters growing up in Australia in the 1950s, the news is full of the Petrov affair and spies. Their ordinary lives are juxtaposed with their parents' marriage, their father's attempted suicide and the big events of the adult world. Usually read by students in Years 9, 10 or 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.

The war is far from over. Roman is missing, lost behind enemy lines, with no memory of his past, or Iris. He begins to write again, but this time for the enemy. When a strange letter arrives through his wardrobe door he strikes up a correspondence with a penpal who is both mysterious and familiar. As their connection deepens, the two of them will risk everything to change the tides of the war. Usually read by students in years 9, 10, or above.

In Germany, in World War II, Jenny's father is taken prisoner by the Americans and her brother is killed. When the mother of her Jewish friend, Rafael, is taken by the Gestapo Jenny's family hides him. The story traces the dangers facing Jenny and Rafael, and their eventual escape. Adult themes, violence, coarse language. Usually read by students in Years 9, 10 and above.

Life for Kit Lovell has not been easy. She never knew her father, a renowned sea captain who drowned after his ship sank. Kit's grandmother dies and she and her mother are evicted from their home in England. When Kit's mother agrees to marry a man she has never met, they embark on a treacherous and monotonous journey to the far flung colony of South Australia. Usually read by students in Years 9, 10 or above.

London society supplied many inspirational ingredients for William Shakespeare, helping him become one of the greatest writers of the English language. Usually read by students in Years 9, 10 and above.

Makepeace Lightfoot lives during harsh times. During the English Civil War she has to travel to live with her paternal family after the death of her mother. Makepeace has inherited more than most from her father's family. She has to learn to defend herself from ghosts. The struggle to make a life for herself in 17th century England with strict religious rules could be the hardest struggle of all. Usually read by students in Year 9, 10 and above.

Charley Goddard goes to fight in the American Civil War. Usually read by students in Years 9, 10 or above.

Issues of racism, love and family grief will appeal to more mature readers. 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.

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.

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.

Hekja's simple but happy life changes dramatically when her village is raided by Vikings and she is captured. Usually read by students in Years 9, 10 and above.

Teenage musician Rafael is sent to a Nazi concentration camp in World War II, where he pushes music to the side in his effort to just survive. 30 years later in Canada, he has a small family, where his daughter Annie struggles to find her place in the countryside. Another 30 years later, in Australia, Joe is uncertain about himself, his future and whether music fits in with him. Includes mature themes. Usually read by students in Years 9, 10 or above.

The world is at war. Sixteen-year-old Hilly is desperate to do something useful to the war effort, to help the boys on the front lines. So when she sees the poster recruiting for the Australian Women's Land Army, she jumps at the chance to make a difference. Traveling to farms across Queensland, Hilly encounters backbreaking work, adversity and romance, and may find she's capable of more than she thought possible. She is one of those girls with grit. Usually read by students in Years 9, 10 and above.

Henni and Leo unravel a mystery around the holiday house Henni so enjoyed staying in at Cauldron Bay. Henni finds herself in great danger as she tries to discover what happened to the Schmidt family. Usually read by students in years 9, 10 and above.

Two young friends are on opposite sides of a violent struggle between the workers at the mill, who have been driven to desperation by deprivation, and the owners of the mills trying to build successful businesses using modern technology. Usually read by students in years 9, 10 and above.

When Aster's brother dies, everything changes. Instead of marriage, she is sent to the high school in her brother's place. Aster is excited but, as a Christian, she is unprepared for the difficulties of attending a Muslim school in Pakistan. When Aster is accused of blasphemy, she is taken to jail. A social justice lawyer defends her and Aster's cousin starts an online campaign to free her. Usually read by students in Years 9, 10 and above.

The story of Muhammad Ali, formerly Cassius Clay, a legendary hero who was an American prize-winning boxer and heavyweight champion of the world. This rap version of Ali's life includes his religion, his marriages and graphic descriptions of his brutal fights with examples of his provoking and inflammatory language. Usually read by students in years 9, 10 and above.

Velvet is an orphan who does scalding, back-breaking work in a Victorian steam laundry. She is desperate for a better life. When she is noticed by Madame Savoya, a famed medium, Velvet begins to work for her and is dazzled by the beautiful dresses and jewels. But, she soon realises that Madame is not all that she says she is, and Velvet's life is in danger. Some adult themes. Usually read by students in Years 9, 10 or above.

In 1833, Jack Ireland is Captain's cabin boy, aboard the Charles Eaton as it sails from England to Australia. On its return journey, passing through the Torres Strait, the ship is wrecked, forcing the crew and passengers to abandon ship on two hand-made rafts. The horrifying events that follow are well documented but the passage of time allows a less sinister explanation. Usually read by students in Years 9, 10 or above.

When Pearl Harbour is attacked in World War 2, Japanese Americans suddenly find themselves hated and treated as enemies in their own country. Follow the story of 14 Japanese Americans and their families as they try to navigate their way through a society that hates them and internment camps. Usually read by students in Years 9, 10 or above.

In the glittering society of nineteenth century Buenos Aires Inez Olivera has everything except the one thing she really wants; her parents who frequently leave her behind on their adventures to Egypt. Then she receives a terrible letter from her uncle explaining her parents have died in mysterious circumstances. Determined to uncover the truth, Inez sets sail for Egypt bringing only her sketch pads and an ancient ring that her father had sent her. But upon her arrival in Egypt the ring flares with ancient magic and Inez is thrust into a treacherous game that could threaten her life. Usually read by students in years 9, 10, or above.

The sixties are in full swing and, for sixteen year old Kathy, it's all about miniskirts, the Beatles and her fab new boots. But, the world is rapidly changing, her brother is fighting in the Vietnam War and her best friend is protesting against it. When the chance comes to dance with an entertainment troop in Vietnam, Kathy slips on her boots and leaves her convent school. She soon finds the reality of war is no song and dance. Usually read by students in Years 9, 10 or above.

When Madeleine is shipped off to stay with her eccentric grandmother for the holidays, she expects the usual: politics, early-morning yoga, extreme healthy food, and lots of hard work. Instead, Madeleine tumbles back in time to 1900, where the wealthy Williamson family takes her into their home, Lyrebird Muse. At a time when young girls have no power and no voice, set against a backdrop of the struggles for emancipation, federation and Aboriginal rights, Madeleine must find a way to fit in with the Williamson family's four sisters - beautiful, cold Bea; clever, awkward Gert; adventurous, rebellious Charlie; and darling baby Imo - as she searches desperately for a way home. Meanwhile, the Williamson girls' enchanting German cousin, Elfriede, arrives on the scene on a heavenly wave of smoke and cinnamon, and threatens to shatter everything... Usually read by students in Years 9, 10 or above.

After the St Bartholomew Massacre in 16th-century France, a sea captain vows to sail until he finds a world without persecution. Centuries later, his ship is seen each sunset by a girl on an island, and is tugged off course by her cries of distress. Usually read by students in Years 9, 10 or above.

The St Clairs are an adventurous flying family in Victoria post First World War and Kitty is inspired to fly just like her mother. After the tragic death of Kitty's mother, everyone rallies to help with her pain. Usually read by students in Years 9, 10 or above.

Marguerite's father is desperate for a son. Instead, he's stuck with a feisty, stubborn daughter who refuses to behave like a lady. Shaking off the strict expectations of court life, Marguerite roams free, learning to ride, to fence and to outwit the boys. But, the count of Flanders has plans for his wayward daughter. Some violence. Usually read by students in Years 9, 10 and above.

Experimented on during her time in a concentration camp, Yael has the unique ability to skin shift, to change her appearance at will. Now, ten years on since the Nazis won the war, Yael has just one mission, to kill Hitler. To get close to him, Yael must transform into Adele Wolfe, Germany's most famous female rider, and win the legendary Axis Tour, an epic, long distance motorcycle race from Berlin to Tokyo. Only the strongest and wiliest riders survive. Includes violence. Usually read by students in Years 9, 10 or above.

Young Nick faithfully records the ordinary human achievements that make extraordinary those of the company of the bark, 'Endeavour', on Captain Cook's first epic voyage. Usually read by students in Years 9, 10 or above.