Booklists

This striking alphabet book shows an Australia with many dimensions. As a country, it has a lot to offer but Australia needs to confront its history and current greed; to stop leaning on old cultural institutions and symbols; and to welcome and tolerate differences. Usually read by students in Years 9, 10 or above.

This book is about Gallipoli, the place, and what happened on Gallipoli Beach, from the ANZACS first landing in April to their retreat in December 1915. Images, memorabilia, illustrations and photographs enrich the recount of the months that followed the landing. Includes images that may trouble some readers. A challenging read; usually read by students in Years 9, 10 or above.

Trying to understand his haunting nightmares, Dr Trotter returns to Preston, where he grew up, to the watertower, where he played as a child. The mystery lies beneath the surface of the deep, still waters. Dark sequel to 'The Watertower'. Usually read by students in Years 9, 10 and above.

A woman takes her only child to live in seclusion so that he should be spared the terrible things that happen in life. She cares for him and is happy. But, one moonless night she dies. The art is sombre but highly original. Usually read by students in years 9, 10 and above.

Jack and Hoshi are soldiers on opposite sides who meet on the Kokoda Track during World War Two. Graphic illustrations enrich this sensitive, realistic and harrowing story of the personal tragedy of two soldiers and their loved ones at home. Usually read by students in Years 9, 10 and above.

A beautifully illustrated and innovative book, full of fanciful whimsy that takes us to a place where we might think about ourselves and our society. 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.

Through annotated illustrations, journals, maps and dreamscapes, Peter Sis shows what life was like for a child, on the Communist side of the Iron Curtain, who believed whatever he was told. As news filtered in from the West, Sis learned about rock'n'roll, blue jeans and read banned books. The Soviet invasion meant this freedom was short-lived but Sis's eyes had been opened. Usually read by students in years 9, 10 and above.