Booklists

Ten year old Ali is a refugee. Accompanied by his grandmother, Ali had to flee his home country of Afghanistan to avoid the conflicts caused by war. In his own words, Ali documents his feelings of alienation, separation and suffering, and the thread of hope that helped him overcome his ordeal.

In this book you'll meet twelve amazing Australian women who have changed the world, in small ways and large. Some of them are world famous, like Annette Kellerman and Nellie Melba. Some of them are famous in Australia, like Mary Reibey and Edith Cowan. And all of them deserve to be famous, and admired. They represent the warriors, artists, business owners, scientists, singers, politicians, actors, athletes, adventurers, activists and innovators of Australia.

From atoms to Xrays and from the Big Bang to the Internet, brilliant breakthroughs by successful scientists have changed the world again and again. Dip inside this intriguing book to read the stories of 100 scientists and their amazing discoveries!

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.

Did you know that Ben Simmons was born in Melbourne, and was picked FIRST OVERALL in the NBA draft? Did you know he is a triple-double machine, and the first Australian to ever win Rookie of the Year? Did you know that Ben loves animals and playing video games? Ben is a TOTAL legend, and this book will tell you all about him.

Ben Hall, sometimes referred to as the 'gentleman bushranger', was the son of poor ex-convicts. Initially, he was hard-working and respected, but he was influenced by notorious bushranger, Frank Gardiner. Ben Hall and his gang committed hundreds of robberies, many of which were violent. For a time, Hall had the support of the public, who respected his daring and courage and admired him for outwitting the police.

From Australian sporting legends to international superstars, these women are at the top of their sporting games. Find out what inspires them and how they got to be the champions they are.

One day, a stranger arrives in Camille's town. He has a straw hat and a yellow beard. The man turns out to be the artist Vincent van Gogh. This is an introduction to the great painter, seen through the eyes of a young boy entranced by his painting.

In 1869, a small town was outraged by the hold-up of the local bank by a masked villain, calling himself 'Captain Moonlight'. He turned out to be the new lay preacher, Andrew George Scott. On his release from prison, Moonlight led a ragged bunch of young desperadoes to stage a siege, ending in a shoot-out and the death of a policeman. Find out about his life, from his birth in Ireland to his death on the gallows.

Two men were known as Captain Starlight. The first, Frank Pearson, left his practice as a doctor, stole a horse and began a bushranging spree, ending in a shoot-out and a policeman's death. He had so many aliases that his real name is unknown. The second 'Starlight' was Henry Readford who stole one thousand head of cattle. Find out about the lives of these two bushrangers, known for very different reasons.

Frederick Wordsworth Ward, known as 'Captain Thunderbolt' was a bushranger who plagued New South Wales for almost seven years. Thunderbolt was intelligent, charming and a great storyteller who enjoyed much public support despite his crimes. Although a horse thief and highway robber, Thunderbolt has become something of a romantic figure. Many legends abound, however, the truth is quite a different story.

Caroline Chisholm was a woman of incredible spirit, courage and compassion. Despite a privileged upbringing, she had a strong sense of social justice and was directly responsible for improving the lives of young female migrants to Sydney; finding work and housing for women and families; improving the standards on board the migrant ships and reuniting convicts with their wives and children.

Young Paul joins his father, artist Paul Cezanne, on a painting expedition in the mountains of southern France. The artist enjoys painting portraits of his apple-cheeked son but most of his paintings are landscapes of the mountain country where they are camping. The local people think the paintings are poor and laugh at his efforts. But, a picture dealer from Paris, who happens to be in the region, believes Cezanne's paintings are wonderful. Soon, Cezanne becomes famous and wealthy.

Craig Shanahan always dreamed of being a chef, but he was almost completely blind. Craig didn't let that stop him from following his dreams, cooking up a storm and opening his own cafe.

As a young girl, Helen Porter wanted to sing on the stage and she pursued her dream of being a great opera star. She changed her name to reflect her Melbourne heritage and, in 1987, made her operatic debut. She went on to sing in all the great opera houses in Europe and became Australia's first great diva. During World War I, she held many fundraising concerts for the war effort.

Marie dreams of becoming the most famous ballerina in the world. When she joins the ballet school in Paris, she notices a fierce man sitting at the side, sketching the dancers. The man is the painter, Edgar Degas, and his clay model of Marie does, indeed, make her the most famous dancer of all.

In 1928 girls don't drive cars, let along race them. Until two fearless and intrepid best friends make history, racing across Australia and beating the land speed record... with Barney the dog in tow. The amazing true story of Jean Robertson and Kathleen Howell who helped map Australia.

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.

Handsome, clever, charismatic and dangerous, Frank Gardiner inspired many young men to abandon the drudgery of their work and turn to highway robbery. He led the infamous robbery at Eugowra Rocks, escaping and running a successful public house until his controversial arrest. Respectable citizens petitioned successfully on his behalf and Gardiner was released early from gaol, amid a storm of controversy.

When Marianna goes to Frida Kahlo's house to be painted by the famous Mexican artist, she is scared. The beautiful lady keeps exotic pets and she's heard that Frida keeps a skeleton in her bedroom. But, as Frida paints Marianna, their friendship grows. Frida talks about her life while Marianna discovers how love, determination and courage can give you wings to fly.

In 1956, with the excitement and pride of his home town Melbourne hosting the Summer Olympic Games and the tensions around the world dominating the news, 8-year-old student John Wing wrote an urgent letter suggesting how to change the Closing Ceremony and bring all nations together as one. A remarkable feat to reflect the pride of his country and one of the friendliest places on earth.

Beatrice knew that as a girl she wouldn't be quite like other engineers - and she wasn't. She was better. Still, it took hard work and perseverance to persuade the Royal Aircraft Establishment to give her a chance. But when World War II broke out and British fighter pilots took to the skies in a desperate struggle for survival against Hitler's bombers, it was clearly time for new ideas. Could Beatrice solve an engine puzzle and help Britain win the war?

As a boy, the author, David Cox, lived on a sheep station in the dusty outback of Queensland. His lessons came in a brown envelope but, out of doors, his dad was his teacher. David learned the stockman's skills of breaking in and riding horses, mustering sheep and cattle, and how to survive the hardships of drought. When they were out riding, his father would tell interesting stories about old times and characters.

With his mother, ten year old Hamid flees Eritrea to escape the war and the government threats to his family. In his own words, Hamid reveals the hardships and suffering experienced by refugees, trying to rebuild their lives. With little understanding of the language and culture in a new country, Hamid's life is very challenging. Even when things start to get easier, the horrors of the war are never far from his thoughts.

Hattie lives just outside of nowhere, right next door to no one at all. Her house is red and has its own name. There are jabbering ducks in the duck house and hens that wander and poop in her mother's flowerbeds. Hattie has a dog called Tacka and own stripy outdoor cats, Havana and Stick. Hattie has been waiting forever for school to start. She's looking forward to it so much, she might burst.

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.

A young, out of work seventeen year old Queenslander rides out into the centre of Australia on horseback to find adventure. He returns with meal bags of rubies and fantastical tale of an Australian gold reef bigger than any ever seen. This is the story of Harold Lasseter and the financed exploration party who returned over thirty years later and what they found.

In 1936, hunted and trapped by European farmers, the last few Tasmanian Tigers take refuge in the forests of Tasmania. But even after the last-known tiger dies alone and neglected in a zoo, people claim to have sighted this amazing creature. No one can prove it still exists, until a determined searcher and modern science provide a glimmer of hope.

In 1848 the famous explorer Ludwig Leichhardt sets out on an epic journey. His aim is to cross Australia from east to west, but he never reaches his destination and no one from his expedition is ever seen again. Countless search parties set out to look for the expedition but no trace is ever found. Until a young boy is given an artefact with an incredible story...

The (unauthorised) biography of you, and the story of all of us. Charting from the Big Bang to birth, Philip Bunting takes us on a journey back to the start of time (in about the time it takes to eat your breakfast!) A hilarious, and beautifully illustrated book, designed to raise more questions than it answers.

Jazz always knew she was different from other kids. She had a girl's brain and a boy's body. This is her story. Based on the real-life experience of co-author, Jazz Jennings.

Australian Football League (AFL) legends, Adam Goodes and Michael O'Loughlin, are blood brothers and great mates. They are also two of the best footballers ever to play for the Sydney Swans. Between them, they played over six hundred and fifty games, and kicked over nine hundred goals. Find out what Goodesy and Magic were like when they were kids, what kind of scrapes they got into at school, and what it was like to go from being normal teenagers to AFL superstars.

Zoro is a little boy in seventeenth century Italy, long before airplanes flew in the sky. But, Zoro is also an apprentice to the artist and inventor, Leonardo da Vinci, who is experimenting with a revolutionary flying machine.

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 this book from the highly acclaimed Little People, BIG DREAMS series, discover the incredible life of J. R. R. Tolkien, author and forefather of the fantasy genre.

Meet Ada Lovelace, the British mathematician and daughter of poet Lord Byron. From her early love of logic, to her plans for the worlds first computer program, learn about Ada's life in this beautifully illustrated biography.

Learn all about Agatha Christie, who taught herself to read at the age of five, on her journey to becoming the most famous crime writer of all time. This inspiring and informative little biography comes with extra facts about Agatha's life at the back.

Discover the life of Alan Turing, the genius code cracker and father of theoretical computer science and artificial intelligence.

Learn about the incredible life of Albert Einstein, the inspiring theoretical physicist, in this book from the bestselling Little People, BIG DREAMS series.

Find out about Amelia Earhart, whose strong will and self-belief helped her overcome prejudice and technical problems to become the first female flyer to fly solo across the Atlantic Ocean.

Little Andy was the tiniest and palest child of the Warholas, a humble couple from Slovakia who lived in Pittsburgh. Sketchbook glued to his hand, he loved every minute of drawing, but he was too shy to show his work to others, even to his family! As an adult he showed the world that the ordinary objects could POP, and founded a cultural movement. This moving book features stylish and quirky illustrations and extra facts at the back, including a biographical timeline with historical photos and a detailed profile of the inspiring artist's life.

Little Anne was born in Germany to a liberal Jewish family. But when the Nazis came into power she was forced to go into hiding with her family. With innovative illustrations and extra facts at the back, this empowering series celebrates the important life stories of wonderful women of the world. From designers and artists to scientists, all of them went on to achieve incredible things, yet all of them began life as a little child with a dream.

The fourth of five children, Aretha was born in Tennessee and took the stage at an early age in her father's church choir. She went on to become the best-selling rhythm and blues singer of all time, and the first woman to be installed in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. This moving book features stylish and quirky illustrations and extra facts at the back, including a biographical timeline with historical photos and a detailed profile of the broadcaster's life.

Discover how Astrid Lindgren grew up to become one of the world's best-loved authors, and the creator of the irresistible Pippi Longstocking.

In the Little People, Big Dreams series, discover the lives of outstanding people from designers and artists to scientists. All of them went on to achieve incredible things, yet all of them began life as a little child with a dream. This book follows the life of Audrey Hepburn, from her early life during World War Two, to ballet school, her acting career and UNICEF work. This inspiring and informative little biography comes with extra facts about Audrey's life at the back.

From the moment his father gave four-year-old Ayrton Senna a go-kart, he was in love with racing. Showing promise from an early age, Ayrton would go on to take the Formula One world by storm, winning championship after championship and becoming one of the greatest drivers in the sport's history. Off the track, he championed education for the underprivileged in Brazil, his home country. This inspiring book features stylish and quirky illustrations and extra facts at the back, including a biographical timeline with historical photos and a detailed profile of the superstar driver's life.

Meet Billie Jean King, the tennis star who has dedicated her life to breaking barriers both on and off the tennis court. This moving book features stylish and quirky illustrations and extra facts at the back, including a biographical timeline with historical photos and a detailed profile of the amazing sportswoman's life.

In this book from the critically acclaimed Little People, Big Dreams series, discover the inspiring story of this iconic singer-songwriter, poet and artist.

In this book from the critically acclaimed, multimillion-copy bestselling Little People, BIG DREAMS series, discover the life of Bruce Lee, the martial artist and Hollywood film star.

Once there was a humble boy from Yorkshire, England called Tom, who was born with his feet firmly on the ground. His determination and courage saw him and his comrades through the worst crisis the world had ever known: World War Two. So when a new crisis struck in 2020, just before his 100th birthday, Captain Tom knew just what to do. Aiming to raise $2,000 for the UK's National Health Service by walking 100 laps of his garden, his story soon became known all over the world, with people donating so much that he quickly raised over $54 million! Captain Tom's story shows us that, by coming together, we can dream bigger than ever, and that when the going gets tough, you just have to keep on walking.

Meet Charles Darwin, the scientist who changed the way people see the world. Although he didn't do very well at school, Charles Darwin was passionately curious about wildlife, humans, and plants. After a journey to South America, he developed his landmark theory: that all living things are related. Today, he is regarded as one of the most brilliant scientists who ever lived, and a hero to those who dare to think differently.

Find out about Coco Chanel, from her early life in an orphanage, where she was a genius with needle and thread, to her time as a cabaret singer, hat maker, and, eventually, international fashion designer.

Meet Corazon Aquino, the first female president of the Philippines. As a young woman and wife, she and her family felt compelled to speak out against the unjust leader who was ruining their country. Showing bravery, reliability, and honesty, she led the revolution that ended the dictator's rule and went on to become the president of the Philippines. This moving book features stylish and quirky illustrations and extra facts at the back, including a biographical timeline with historical photos and a detailed profile of the politician's life.

Meet David Attenborough, the inspiring broadcaster and conservationist. Little David grew up in Leicester on the campus of a university, where his father was a professor. As a child, he spent hours in the science library, collating his own specimens and creating a mini animal museum. When he was old enough to go to university, he studied science and zoology -- but what he wanted most of all was to be close to the animals he was studying. So, he started working in television, visiting animals in their natural habitats, and telling the world the untold stories of these animals. This moving book features stylish and quirky illustrations and extra facts at the back, including a biographical timeline with historical photos and a detailed profile of the broadcaster's life.

As a child, young David had a head full of songs and ideas. He was inspired by the pop and mod scenes in Britain to pick up the saxophone. After earning his stripes in some of the coolest bands in London, David splashed onto the solo scene. His songwriting talent and musical skill made him one of rock and roll's all-time greatest artists.

Meet Dolly Parton, the singer-songwriter and businesswoman. Little Dolly grew up in Tennessee in a family "as poor as dirt." She started performing at an early age, singing on local radio and television. After graduating high school, she moved to Nashville to pursue her singing dreams. Her managers wanted her to sing pop, but she followed her heart to sing and write country songs. Her heart was right -- Dolly became a musical superstar, but she never forgot where she came from. She now uses her wealth to give back to people, children, and animals in need. This moving book features stylish and quirky illustrations and extra facts at the back, including a biographical timeline with historical photos and a detailed profile of the singer's life.

This inspiring book features stylish and quirky illustrations and extra facts at the back, including a biographical timeline with historical photos and a detailed profile of this athlete and actor's life.

Meet Ella Fitzgerald, one of the most influential jazz singers of all time. This mini biography charts Ella's life, from her early singing days on the streets of Harlem, to her success as a jazz legend, with the message: 'It's not where you come from, but where you're going that counts.' This inspiring story of the First Lady of Song features a facts and photos section at the back.

Meet Elton John, the piano wizard who rocketed to stardom with his music. As a child, Elton started playing his grandmother's piano in Harrow, London. He could pick tunes out by ear and was soon attending lessons at the Royal Academy. After answering an advertisement in a newspaper, Elton teamed up with a lyric-writing buddy: Bernie Taupin. The rest was history. Elton's songwriting talent, musical skill, and dazzling outfits have made him one of the all-time greats. This moving book features stylish and quirky illustrations and extra facts at the back, including a biographical timeline with historical photos and a detailed profile of the musician's life.

As a child, Emmeline Pankhurst was shocked at the inequality of men and women that she saw all around her. When she grew up, she never stopped fighting for women to get the vote, inspiring other women to demonstrate, go on hunger strike and protest for the cause. This inspiring and informative little biography comes with extra facts about Emmeline's life at the back.

Meet Ernest Shackleton, the fearless Antarctic adventurer. When Ernest Shackleton was young, he longed for a life of adventure. After a career in the Merchant Navy, he joined a landmark expedition to try to reach the South Pole for the first time in history. Although he had to go home early, he never gave up. His own expeditions set new records for the closest anyone had ever been to the South Pole, and he is remembered now as a courageous and inspirational leader. This exciting book features stylish and quirky illustrations and extra facts at the back, including a biographical timeline with historical photos and a detailed profile of the intrepid explorer's life.

In this book from the critically acclaimed, multimillion-copy bestselling Little People, BIG DREAMS series, discover the life of Evonne Goolagong, the inspiring indigenous Australian tennis player.

Find out about Frida Kahlo, whose desire to study medicine was destroyed by a childhood accident. Frida began painting from her bed and produced over one hundred and forty works, culminating in a solo exhibition in America.

As a child, little Georgia viewed the world differently from other people. She roamed outdoors with her sketch book, while other girls played. As an adult, she painted all day. From New York City to New Mexico, she was influenced by the landscapes of her environment. With stylish and quirky illustrations and extra facts at the back, this empowering series celebrates the important life stories of wonderful women of the world. From designers and artists to scientists, all of them went on to achieve incredible things, yet all of them began life as a little child with a dream.

When young Greta learned of the climate crisis she stopped talking. She couldn't understand why people in power were not doing anything to save our Earth. One day she started striking from school in her 'School Strike for Climate'. Soon, lots more young people joined her in a global movement that shook adults and politicians alike. She had found her voice and uses it to inspire humans to action with her powerful message: "No one is too small to make a difference."

Meet Hans Christian Andersen, the father of fairy tales. When Hans Christian Andersen was a little boy, he treated storybooks as jewels to be treasured. He wanted to perform on stage, but was always cast as the troll. Luckily, through theater, he found a love for writing. He wrote about both the ordinary and fantastic, in stories like "The Ugly Duckling" and "The Little Mermaid," never talking down to children. This enchanting book features stylish and quirky illustrations and extra facts at the back, including a biographical timeline with historical photos and a detailed profile of the writer's life.

Little Harriet was born into slavery in Maryland and laboured in the fields from the age of 12. But as an adult, she escaped, freeing herself before returning back to lead hundreds of enslaved African Americans to freedom with great bravery and courage. Harriet sacrificed so much of her life for others, eventually working for the army in the Civil War and then promoting women's voting rights until she retired in Auburn, New York. With stylish and quirky illustrations and extra facts at the back, this empowering series celebrates the important life stories of wonderful women of the world.

Little Jane grew up in a big family that loved learning and she often read from her father's library. In her teenage years she began to write in bound notebooks and craft her own novels. As an adult, Jane created stories that shone a light on the English upper classes and provided a witty social commentary of the time, creating a new dialogue for female characters in books.

As an adult, Jane travelled to Tanzania to study chimpanzees in a new way - by living with them in their habitat. This is how Jane made many discoveries that people had missed. With stylish and quirky illustrations and extra facts at the back, this empowering series celebrates the important life stories of wonderful women of the world. From designers and artists to scientists, all of them went on to achieve incredible things, yet all of them began life as a little child with a dream.

In this book from the critically acclaimed, multimillion-copy bestselling Little People, BIG DREAMS series, discover the life of Jean-Michel Basquiat, the graffiti street art movement pioneer.

In this book from the critically acclaimed, multimillion-copy bestselling Little People, BIG DREAMS series, discover the life of Jesse Owens, the great track and field star.

Meet John Lennon, the boy from Liverpool who dreamed of peace. When John Lennon formed a band while still in school, he couldn't have known they were about to change music forever. With their exciting new sounds, rebel attitudes and gift for songwriting, everyone went crazy for The Beatles. Today, John is remembered not just as a musical icon, but as a champion of world peace. This inspiring book features stylish and quirky illustrations and extra facts at the back, including a biographical timeline with historical photos and a detailed profile of the legendary Beatle's life.

Little Josephine grew up in St Louis, Missouri during segregation. But Josephine loved to dance and perform and dreamed of being on stage. When she grew up, Josephine defied expectations and left for Paris, where audiences fell in love with her. She fought against segregation her whole life and kept going with style, whatever was thrown in her way. With stylish and quirky illustrations and extra facts at the back, this empowering series celebrates the important life stories of wonderful women of the world. From designers and artists to scientists, all of them went on to achieve incredible things, yet all of them began life as a little child with a dream.

Meet Kamala Harris, the first woman, first Black person, and first South Asian American to be elected Vice President of the USA Little Kamala used to accompany her parents to civil rights marches in California, tied to her sister's stroller so she wouldn't get lost. From an early age, she dreamed of becoming a lawyer to help people in need. At university, Kamala felt like she could do anything and everything. She earned a law degree to make sure the most vulnerable were protected by justice. Kamala's life was full of firsts, including becoming the first woman, Black woman, and South Asian American to be elected Vice President. As Kamala stated to little girls everywhere in her speech- she may be the first but she won't be the last.

Discover the life of King Charles!

Discover the life of Kylie Minogue, the Australian princess of pop!

From the critically acclaimed Little People, BIG DREAMS series, discover the incredible life of Lucy Maud Montgomery, the famous Canadian author of Anne of Green Gables.

Discover the life of Laverne Cox, the actress and trans pioneer.

Discover the incredible life of Sir Lenny Henry, the multi-talented comedian, actor, writer and activist.

In this book from the highly acclaimed Little People, BIG DREAMS series, discover the incredible life of Leo Messi, one of the worlds most skilled and celebrated footballers

Meet Lewis Hamilton, seven time Formula One world champion!

Discover the life of Louis Pasteur, the French chemist and the father of modern medicine.

Meet Louise Bourgeois, the inspiring French-American sculptor and installation artist. When Louise was a little girl, her mother died. She learned to express her feelings through drawing -- and when she grew up, she turned these drawings into sculpture, confronting her own fears through art. This moving book features stylish and quirky illustrations and extra facts at the back, including a biographical timeline with historical photos and a detailed profile of the artist's life.

Discover the life of Mae Jemison, scientist, astronaut and the first ever black woman in space.

As a young teenager in India, Gandhi led a rebellious life and went against his parents' values. But as a young man, he started to form beliefs of his own that harked back to the Hindu principles of his childhood.

Meet Malala Yousafzai, the incredible activist for girls' education and the youngest Nobel Prize laureate.

Discover the incredible life of Marcus Rashford, the world-famous footballer and campaigner against child hunger.

Maria grew up in Italy at a time when girls didn't receive an equal education to boys. But Maria's mother was supportive of her dreams, and Maria went on to study medicine. She later became an early years expert - founding schools with her revolutionary educational theories and changing the lives of many children. This moving book features stylish and quirky illustrations and extra facts at the back, including a biographical timeline with historical photos and a detailed profile of the educator's life.

Learn all about Marie Curie, whose love of learning helped her to revolutionise the fight against cancer with her discovery of radium and polonium. This inspiring and informative little biography comes with extra facts about Marie's life at the back.

Meet Marilyn Monroe, the iconic movie star.

Little Martin grew up in Atlanta to a long line of preachers: his dad was a preacher, his uncle was a preacher, his grandfather was a preacher...so maybe he'd become a great preacher, too. One day, a friend invited him to play at his house. Martin was shocked when his mother wouldn't let him in because he was black. That day he realized there was something terribly unfair going on. Martin believed that no-one should remain silent and accept something if it's wrong. And he promised himself that - when he grew up - he'd fight injustice with the most powerful weapon of all: words.

Meet Mary Anning, the first paleontologist, and daring fossil hunter. When Mary was little, her family was very poor. She used to help her dad to comb for shells and bones up high on dangerous cliffs. After receiving a book as a gift from a kind benefactor, Mary learned all about fossils. She continued to hunt for them and made the startling discovery of a complete skeleton of an ichthyosaur. Sadly, she wasn't allowed to study along with all the other men, but she carried on making her own discoveries -- including dinosaur poo! -- and advising the Geological Society when they needed help. It took a lifetime to receive recognition but we all remember her now as the mother of paleontology. This roar-some book features stylish and quirky illustrations and extra facts at the back, including a biographical timeline with historical photos and a detailed profile of the paleontologist's life.

When Mary Shelley was a little girl, she used to write stories beneath the trees in her garden. As an adult, Mary was inspired by this same imagination to create a ghost story, which became the famous novel: Frankenstein. This gripping book features stylish and quirky illustrations and extra facts at the back, including a biographical timeline with historical photos and a detailed profile of the novelists life.

Find out about Maya Angelou, from her early traumatic childhood to her time as a singer, actress, civil rights campaigner until she became one of America's most beloved writers.

Meet Megan Rapinoe, the world record-breaking soccer player and activist in this inspiring book, featuring stylish and quirky illustrations and a biographical timeline with historical photos and a detailed profile of the US co-captain's life.

Meet Michael Jordan, one of the greatest all-time basketball players.

Meet Michelle Obama, the iconic first lady, advocate, lawyer, and author. This empowering book features stylish and quirky illustrations and extra facts at the back, including a biographical timeline with historical photos and a detailed profile of the inspiring woman's life.

Meet Mindy Kaling, the actor, writer, producer, and director.

Agnes (later to become Mother Teresa) was born in Skopje, Macedonia. From an early age, she knew she wanted to dedicate herself to religion. She was fascinated by stories of missionaries helping people and wanted to do the same. She spent the rest of her life caring for the sick and poor around the world and is now remembered as Saint Teresa of Calcutta. This moving book features stylish and quirky illustrations and extra facts at the back, including a biographical timeline with historical photos and a detailed profile of Mother Teresa's amazing life.

Discover the incredible life of Mozart, world-renowned classical musician and composer.

When he was little, Muhammad Ali had his bicycle stolen. He wanted to fight the thief, but a policeman told him him to learn how to box first. After training hard in the gym, Muhammad developed a strong jab and an even stronger work ethic. His smart thinking and talking earned him the greatest title in boxing: Heavyweight Champion of the World. This moving book features stylish and quirky illustrations and extra facts at the back, including a biographical timeline with historical photos and a detailed profile of 'The Greatest's' life.

Discover the life of Neil Armstrong, the first person to walk on the moon.

Meet Nelson Mandela, South Africa's first Black president and his fight for equality. Little Nelson's given name was Rolihlahla, which means 'troublemaker' in Xhosa, his native language. But his rebellious nature would lead him to become one of the world's most inspirational civil right's leaders and anti-apartheid revolutionaries. Despite the many years of imprisonment and adversity he faced, Nelson remained victorious and was voted to become South Africa's first Black president. This inspiring book features stylish and quirky illustrations and extra facts at the back, including a biographical timeline with historical photos and a detailed profile of the activist turned president's life.

Discover the life of Nikola Tesla, the scientist and inventor whose groundbreaking inventions we continue to use today.

Discover the life of Olive Morris, the social justice activist and campaigner.

Meet Pablo Picasso, one of the world's greatest artists in the 20th century.

Meet Pele, Brazil's all-time King of Soccer. With a sock full of rags for a ball, Pele honed his skills in a poor neighbourhood in Brazil. He believed that, one day, he would lead his country to World Cup victory --and he was right! With Pele and his super skills on the team, Brazil lifted the trophy three times. Today, he is widely regarded as the greatest soccer player who ever lived -- and a hero off the pitch, too, using his voice to help the people who need it most. This inspiring book features stylish and quirky illustrations and extra facts at the back, including a biographical timeline with historical photos and a detailed profile of The King's life.

In this book from the critically acclaimed, multimillion-copy bestselling Little People, BIG DREAMS series, discover the life of Prince, one of the most iconic performers in music history.

Discover the life of Princess Diana, the world's most loved princess.

In this book from the critically acclaimed Little People, BIG DREAMS series, discover the life of Queen Elizabeth II, the longest-reigning monarch of modern times.

All of them achieved incredible things, yet each began life as a child with a dream. Rosa Parks grew up during segregation in Alabama, but she was taught to respect herself and stand up for her rights. In 1955, Rosa refused to give up her seat to a white man on a segregated bus, sparking the Montgomery Bus Boycott. Her decision had a huge impact on civil rights, eventually leading to the end of segregation on public transport. Rosa has been described as The Mother of the Freedom Movement; this inspiring story of her life features facts and photos.

Meet Rosalind Franklin, the scientist who was crucial to the discovery of the double helix in DNA.

New in the critically acclaimed Little People, BIG DREAMS series, discover the life of Rudolf Nureyev, one of the greatest male ballet dancers of all time.

Meet RuPaul, the shape-shifter, performer, supermodel, and host of RuPaul's Drag Race. Even before little Ru was born, a fortune teller told his mom that he would one day be famous... It was only a matter of time before he figured out how. Playing dress-up was his favourite game, and that's where he felt most comfortable. Ru went on to study performing arts and then moved to New York to mix things up in a punk band. Later, drag was a way to express himself as an artist. He found success for himself, then wanted to help others find theirs. He inspires us to do what feels right and love ourselves.

Meet Ruth Bader Ginsburg, the American supreme court justice. This inspiring book features stylish and quirky illustrations and extra facts at the back, including a biographical timeline with historical photos and a detailed profile of the climate justice's life.

Be inspired by the life of Sally Ride, the first American woman in space.

Read all about the life of Shakira, one of the biggest pop stars ever, and a champion of Spanish-language music

Meet Simone de Beauvoir, the great French philosopher and mother of feminism. When Simone de Beauvoir was a little girl, her father would proudly boast that she had the brain of a man -- whatever that meant. But later, after years of studying, Simone would write a book that challenged the role of women in society, sending shock waves around the world.

Be inspired by the amazing life of Stan Lee, the comic book genius who created Spider-Man, The Hulk and Iron Man!

When Stephen Hawking was a little boy, he used to stare up at the stars and wonder about the universe. Although he was never top of the class, his curiosity took him to the best universities in England: Oxford and Cambridge. It also led him to make one of the biggest scientific discoveries of the 20th century: Hawking radiation. This moving book features stylish and quirky illustrations and extra facts at the back, including a biographical timeline with historical photos and a detailed profile of the brilliant physicist's life.

Discover the incredible life of Steve Irwin, animal lover and wildlife conservationist.

Meet Steve Jobs, the visionary whose ideas still shape the world. Steve Jobs grew up surrounded by inventors, in sunny Silicon Valley, California. He and his friend Stephen Wozniak channelled their love of computers into their own inventions, building a successful company from Steve's garage. Steve thought that computers were the future, and his big ideas would transform the world and the way people use technology. This inspiring book features stylish and quirky illustrations and extra facts at the back, including a biographical timeline with historical photos and a detailed profile of the brilliant businessman's life.

Meet Stevie Wonder, the genius behind some of the world's best-loved songs. At just 8 years old, it was clear that Steveland Judkins was going to be a star. Renamed Stevie Wonder for his astonishing talent on the piano and other instruments, he wrote and performed some of the biggest hits of the 1970s. Stevie became known for his inventiveness, his soulful voice, and the social commentary in his lyrics. He is a UN Messenger of Peace and remains one of the music world's most iconic figures. This inspiring book features stylish and quirky illustrations and extra facts at the back, including a biographical timeline with historical photos and a detailed profile of the great musician's life.

Inspire kids with the glittering story of pop superstar Taylor Swift! This talented singer-songwriter started as a little country girl with a big dream to become a star.

Discover the life of Tenzing Norgay, one of the first two people to reach the summit of Mount Everest in 1953.

Discover the life of Terry Fox, the legendary Canadian who ran the Marathon of Hope.

Growing up in a rural town in Jamaica, Usain was a standout cricketeer and sprinter from a young age. His speed was noticed by coaches, and by the age of 14, he was wowing fans with his lightning speed. He took the world by storm at the 2008 Beijing Olympics when he broke numerous records and he became the fastest man ever at the World Championships in 2009 with a time of 9.58 seconds. Despite the pressure and even a few off-days, Usain continued to be monumental in his achievements. Usain's story teaches us that any dream is achievable if you put your mind to it, regardless of what others may say.

Discover the incredible life of Vanessa Nakate, the Ugandan climate-justice activist.

When Vivienne was young, she wasn't sure how a working class girl from England could make a living in the art world. But after discovering her passion for design and jewellery making, she erupted onto the fashion scene with a bang. Vivienne's designs became iconic, and she became famous for letting her clothes speak for themselves. This moving book features stylish and quirky illustrations and extra facts at the back, including a biographical timeline with historical photos and a detailed profile of the designer's life.

In this book from the critically acclaimed, multimillion-copy bestselling Little People, BIG DREAMS series, discover the life of Wilma Mankiller, the first woman to be elected as Principal Chief of the Cherokee Nation.

Wilma was born into a family with 22 brothers and sisters, in the segregated southern states of America. She contracted polio in her early years and her doctors said she would never walk again. But Wilma persisted with treatment, and she recovered her strength by the age of 12. At school, Wilma showed a talent for basketball and sprinting, earning the nickname 'Skeeter' (mosquito) as she ran so fast. Wilma was in college when she went to the 1960 Olympics. She not only won gold in sprint events, but also broke world records with her sprinting skill. She had beaten polio to become an Olympic champion. She is a huge inspiration to many women in sports around the world. This moving book features stylish and quirky illustrations and extra facts at the back, including a biographical timeline with historical photos and a detailed profile of the athlete's life.

When Yoko was little, she had everything she could dream of in Japan, except time with her busy parents. She used to write wishes and tie them to the branches of the trees in the local temple to be less alone. When war broke out, Yoko was often hungry and had to use her imagination to transport her. After the war, she made her way to New York to meet free spirits and study art. She worked as artist, and hosted gatherings with her trailblazing friends, and then one day, John Lennon came to see her work. And together, they imagined a better world.

New in the critically acclaimed Little People, Big Dreams series, discover the incredible life of Zaha Hadid, the Queen of Architecture.

Julie wishes she had a garden so her mother takes her to visit Monet's garden at Givenchy. A wonderful introduction to the artist, Claude Monet.

The story of a respected indigenous role model, Mandawuy Yunupingu, who has been a school principal and a rock star. Includes great photos, a glossary and a personal profile.

Mary MacKillop (1842-1909) is Australia's first saint. This is her story from ordinary girl to saint. "We must teach more by example that by word."

When Monique, a young nurse, steps into the home of an elderly patient, she sees rooms filled with the most vivid colour she's ever seen. Her patient is the artist Henri Matisse and they become good friends. When Monique enters a convent as a nursing nun, she discovers that her religious order is very poor and doesn't have it's own chapel. Matisse helps by developing a sketch by Monique into a brilliant set of stained-glass chapel windows, and uses his influence to raise enough money to build the chapel.

Dame Nellie Melba was Australia's first classical music star. The beauty of her singing was celebrated around the globe. She was appointed Dame Commander, OBE, for her enormous fundraising efforts during World War I. Today, she is commemorated on Australia's one hundred dollar banknote. This is the story of how she rose to fame, and how she brought opera to Australians in the city and the bush.

The story of Mum Shirl, an Australian Indigenous woman, who unselfishly helped Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal people. Includes great photographs, newspaper clippings and a biography.

Meet kids around the world, kids just like you, who are making a positive different to take action against climate change. Learn about the work that they do and discover how the future of our planet starts with you.

Sylvette is a shy little girl whose neighbor happens to be the artist Pablo Picasso. Attracted by Sylvette's classical facial profile and her lovely ponytail hair style, Picasso convinces her to overcome her shyness and pose for a series of artworks. These drawings, paintings and sculptures soon became world famous and encouraged Sylvette to abandon her shyness. Eventually, she began a career as a fine artist.

Fred Hollows qualified as an eye doctor in New Zealand and later moved to Australia. He restored sight to more than one million people. He worked in remote and Aboriginal communities, providing much needed aid, often for free. Working in Nepal and Eritrea, his factories, run by local people, produced three million lenses for ten dollars each. He believed that curing blindness gave people back their independence.

Rachel is thirteen and a refugee. With her family, she flees her home country to escape the persecution they suffer as Christians living in a predominantly Muslim country. In her own words, Rachel describes the hostility and rejection of their community, as well as the courage and resilience they show in the face of immigration authorities, detention centres, and deportation. She shares the problems and challenges of settling in their new country.

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.

For shy, young Peter Mark Roget, books were his best companions and it wasn't long before he began writing his own. But, he didn't write stories, he wrote lists. Peter took his love for words and turned it to organising ideas, and finding exactly the right word to express just what he thought. His lists grew and grew, eventually turning into one of the most important reference books of all time.

Lotte doesn't believe in happy endings. She lives with her horrible, bossy sisters and her only friends are the exquisite cut-out paper puppets she makes by the light of the moon. But when an invitation to the Palace Spring Ball arrives on their doorstep, Lotte sees her chance to change her life forever... Cinderella with a difference where forceful individuality and talent create happy endings not fairy tale magic.

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.

Louis wanted to read. But there were no books for blind children. And so he invented an alphabet that he could read by touch. Each letter was formed from just six raised dots. Now the world of books was at his fingertips.

Many Australian Sportswomen are kicking goals and breaking records. Be inspired by these fierce athletes who are the champions of having fun. Sport (noun): an activity for pleasure and exercise. Maybe Australia's top sportswomen can help me discover my passion and inspire me to be the best I can be. What sport will you try?

The twins, Meret and Bella, love their grandfather, Papa Chagall, and he loves telling them stories. One day, when they visit him in his studio, he tells them about his life. Through four different stories, Papa relates his extraordinary rags to riches journey, from a topsy-turvy cottage in Russia, through the dark years of the war until emerging in the sparkling sunlight of Southern France.

Featuring biographies from Cleopatra to Malala, read about amazing women who have made history. Using comic-style illustrations this is great book to dip into or read from cover to cover. Famous women scientists, leaders, warriors and writers. Women around the world deserve Three Cheers!

Joseph Montgolfier and his brother worked together to make the first hot air balloon, launching man into the sky, and beginning the journey of flight. Read how they came up with their invention which captured the attention of the King of France and started the whole world dreaming of flying.

Young Camille befriends a strange visitor to his small town and, one day, he brings this man a gift of bright, beautiful sunflowers. The man is the artist Vincent van Gogh and the sunflowers quickly become the subject of a magnificent painting.

Oprah Winfrey has inspired millions of people around the world. This illustrated biography about the fantastic life of the Queen of Media, shows a new generation that they can do anything they put their minds to. This new series of illustrated biographies highlights contemporary innovators, leaders and visionaries in order to motivate and inspire the leaders of tomorrow.

Steve Jobs was a visionary who changed the world with his inventions and designs. This illustrated biography about the fantastic life of Steve inspires younger generations to dream big and believe in themselves. This new series of illustrated biographies highlights contemporary innovators, leaders and icons in order to motivate and inspire the leaders of tomorrow.

These women revolutionised the arts, one brush stroke, photograph, and quilt stitch at a time! From household names like Frida Kahlo and Georgia O'Keeffe, to French-born Australian artist Mirka Mora, to underrepresented creators such as Jaune Quick-to-See Smith and Xenobia Bailey, this empowering alphabet picture book features a variety of genres-painting, drawing, sculpture, and more. Whether your're an art aficionado or finger-painting virtuoso, this vibrant collection or diverse women artists is perfect for you.