Booklists

Agent Six, the strongest, fastest, most invincible agent in the Deck, is about to live his worst nightmare. Six is the product of an illegal genetic experiment of the Lab's some sixteen years ago. When the Deck begins investigating the Lab, he walks a tightrope between his two worlds. Life spirals out of control and leads to capture, possible torture and revelation.

Arthur Penhaligon has defeated four of the seven Trustees but his week is getting worse and worse.

Kel has achieved her ultimate ambition - she is a knight of Tortall. But now she must fulfil a knight's duty and fight for her country against the Scanran invasion.

The diary of sixteen year old Lady of Ch'iao Kuo is a remarkable adventure set in Southern China in the sixth century. A born leader, Lady of Ch'iao Kuo, also known as Princess Redbird, is both courageous and keenly intelligent.

The lady of Palenque is the thirteen year old daughter of King Hanaab Pacal. She embarks on a gripping and pivotal journey to meet her husband-to-be, who is a stranger to her. A keen observer and storyteller, the princess records her own steps into adulthood, as she faces countless obstacles along the way.

This poem inspired many great writers and artists.

The Kaiser murdered Theodosia's mother, the Fire Queen, when Theo was only six. He took Theo's country and kept her prisoner, crowning her Ash Princess - a pet to toy with and humiliate for ten long years. That era has ended. The Kaiser thought his prisoner weak and defenceless. He didn't realise that a sharp mind is the deadliest weapon. Theo no longer wears a crown of ashes. She has taken back her rightful title, and a hostage - Prinz Soren. But her people remain enslaved under the Kaiser's rule, and now she is thousands of miles away from them and her throne. To get them back, she will need an army. Only, securing an army means she must trust her aunt, the dreaded pirate Dragonsbane. And according to Dragonsbane, an army can only be produced if Theo takes a husband. Something an Astrean Queen has never done. Theo knows that freedom comes at a price, but she is determined to find a way to save her country without losing herself. Usually read by students in years 9, 10 & above,

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

Rossamund Bookchild is now a lonely, apprentice lamplighter at Winstermill, half-way through his training. His life is enlivened by the arrival of Threnody, a female wit (a lahzar or monster-hunter) who wants to train as a lamplighter, solely to spite her mother.

There are lights on the horizon. Electricity. A return to civilization. Finn and Kas have been living in isolation, in hiding and by their wits for three years. Now they hope that at last they will find a life without danger, without threat and without the virus. But the tracking device beneath Kas's skin begins to buzz-she can't ignore that she is a Siley, a slave , and will never be free. When the search parties arrive they discover their new reality is a world divided by fences where they can't be together. But after everything they have been through, they are not about to play by the rules. Usually read by students in years 9, 10, or above.

When the vuvv first landed, it came as a surprise to aspiring artist Adam and the rest of planet Earth, but not necessarily an unwelcome one. Can it really be called an invasion when the vuvv generously offered free advanced technology and cures for every illness imaginable? As it turns out, yes. With his parents' jobs replaced by alien tech and no money for food, clean water, or the vuvv's miraculous medicine, Adam and his girlfriend, Chloe, have to get creative to survive. And since the vuvv crave anything they deem "classic" Earth culture (doo-wop music, still-life paintings of fruit, true love), recording 1950s-style dates for the vuvv to watch in a pay-per-minute format seems like a brilliant idea. But it's hard for Adam and Chloe to sell true love when they hate each other more with every passing episode. Soon enough, Adam must decide how far he's willing to go - and what he's willing to sacrifice - to give the vuvv what they want.

Aidan's father goes missing at sea. Aidan lights a lantern every night to help his father home. In the light of the lantern, Aidan sees what has happened in the past and this gives him hope for his father.

The personal stories of the last eighteen surviving veterans of the Gallipoli campaign. Almost ninety years after the commencement of World War I, we still support a march in honour of the ANZACs and respect their spirit.

Pakistan 1974: The secret-wreathed trees of Harikaya have always called to Hassan. He knows if he doesn't find the last beekeeper and salvage a precious jar of his mythical black honey before the floods come, his mother will lose her sight. A historical novel of family, friendship and self-discovery exploring the power of choice in a changing world and love in communion with nature.

Six months ago, Zoey's life went off the rails. After the tragic loss of her brother, she partied her way to oblivion, estranged her best friend, Cass, and pushed away her now ex, Finn. But when her destructive behaviour reaches dangerous heights, Zoey realises she needs to pull herself together and get her old life back, including her ex. There's just one complication: Finn is now dating Cass. Now, it's the last week of summer and Zoey, Cass and Finn are setting out on the road trip of a lifetime to see their favourite musician, Gray, perform live, joined by Finn's infuriatingly attractive bad-boy cousin Luc and his vibrant younger sister Jolie. Zoey thinks this is her chance to put things to rights and convince Finn they should get back together. But she wasn't counting on her friends' lingering resentment, Luc's disarming sincerity, and Jolie's infectious love for life to turn her plans upside down. Usually read by students in Years 9, 10 or above.

Under the burnt timber of the church, the police have found the body of Merv Ignatious, the man who so viciously attacked Jed Kelly when she was fifteen, and tried to kill her and her unborn child in last year's bushfire. And also in the church, lie skeletons from many years ago.

Shane's family lives on a remote station. Most of the Aboriginal people have been driven off but Red and her grandfather remain. All risk losing their homes when a big company wants to combine five stations. Strong language used in context. Usually read by students in Years 9, 10 and above.

Fifty years after the floating city of Sanctaphrax was swept away, the Edgeworld has changed for the worse. Cruel shrykes are in control and slave labour is endemic. When a young apprentice knight-academic, Rook, sets out on a perilous journey through the Deepwoods, he meets a mysterious stranger living with the banderbears and is propelled right into the middle of a dangerous adventure, challenging the dark might of the Guardians of the Night.

1945, Hiroshima: Ichiro is a teenage boy relaxing at home with his friend Hiro. Moments later they witness the blinding flash as the first nuclear bomb of WWII is dropped. Despite their wounds, the two boys set out to find Hiro's five-year-old sister Keiko in the devastated and blasted landscape. When Hiro is no longer able to continue, Ichiro promises Hiro he will take care of Keiko and get her to safety. But in the chaos, Ichiro loses her after setting off to find help. Seventy years later, this broken promise to his dying friend haunts the old man's fading years. Mizuki, his granddaughter, is determined to help him. As the Japanese legend goes, if you have the patience to fold 1,000 paper cranes, you will find your heart's desire; and it turns out her grandfather has only one more origami crane to fold...

A realistic and harrowing story of children's courage in the face of domestic violence, with a positive outcome.Usually read by students in Years 9, 10 or above.

Steve is a brilliant basketball player with a conflict to solve involving family and his achievements.

The last time Lex was happy, it was before. When her family was whole. and friends didn't look at her as if she might break down. Now, she's just the girl whose brother killed himself. Lex tries to block out the night Tyler died but regret and their last goodbye haunt her. As Lex learns to grieve and recover, she discovers that a ghost doesn't have to be real to keep you from moving on. Usually read by students in Years 9, 10 or above.

Laurinda is an exclusive school for girls. At its secret core is the Cabinet, a trio of girls who wield power over their classmates and some of their teachers. Entering this world of wealth and secrets is fifteen year old Lucy Lam, a scholarship girl, who has sharp eyes and a shaky sense of self. As she watches the Cabinet at work, and is courted by them, Lucy finds herself in a battle for her identity and integrity.

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.

Aubrey Fitzwilliam is the son of a prominent ex-prime minister. Usually, he is also brilliant at magic until he mucks up a spell that nearly kills him. With his best friend, George, Aubrey becomes involved in a dangerous political situation, where the lives of the king, the prince and his own father are threatened.

On his after-exams holiday in neighbouring Lutetia, Aubrey is hoping to bump into Caroline and find a cure for his condition. But, his family and the king all ask him to help them with various tasks, involving him and his friend, George, in magic, mystery and espionage.

Instead of clearing his name in Albion, Aubrey is pursuing his enemy, Dr. Mordecai Tremaine, deep into the heart of enemy territory. He uncovers a hideous combination of electrical science, golem manufacturing and soul-shattering magic which will bring the world far closer to the edge of the abyss. Alone, reviled and hunted, this is Aubrey's last chance to save the world. If he doesn't, there might not be a world left to save.

The war has finally erupted, sending Albion and the continent into chaos. Aubrey, George and Caroline are brought into a top-secret espionage unit and sent to investigate a mysterious, magical facility on the Gallia-Holmland border. They uncover a factory about to unleash a horror that could soon win the war. The only way to save thousands of lives could cost Aubrey his friends, his family, his reputation and even his life.

After Aubrey narrowly escapes the worst fate he can imagine, he realises he must confront his nemesis. With George and Caroline he travels to Holmland, the home of Dr Tremaine and the heart of hostile territory, only to face magical conundrums, near-death experiences, ghosts, brigands and enemies on their own ground.

Aubrey and his friend, George, are invited by Aubrey's Prime Minister father on a trip, on a top-secret submersible. The magical attack that cripples the vessel, sending it to the bottom of the sea, is just the start of a series of plots to destroy Albion. Once again, Aubrey's magical skills are tested to the full.

Shadows are dangerous. Edem is illegal. And liars are cowards. Ever since his mother was killed in a freak edem-based crime, seventeen-year-old Cayder Broduck has had one goal: to have illegal users of extradimensional magic brought to justice. Cayder dreams of becoming a prosecutor and, when he secretly accepts an apprenticeship under the city's best public defender, he plans to learn every legal trick he can to one day dismantle defence arguments. Then he'll finally be able to make sure justice is served. But when he meets all three criminals he is to defend, he finds they are teenagers, like him, and their stories are....complicated, like his. As their cases unfold, Cayder must race to separate the truth from the lies and uncover what really happened the night his mother died. Usually read by students in Years 9, 10 or above.

When it comes to drumming, Leah Burke is usually on beat - but real life isn't always so rhythmic. An anomaly in her friend group, she's the only child of a young, single mum, and her life is decidedly less privileged. And even though her mom knows she's bisexual, she hasn't mustered the courage to tell her friends - not even her openly gay BFF, Simon. With some messy dynamics emerging in this once tight-knit group of friends, senior year suddenly gets even more complicated for Leah, as she realises she's falling not for the guy who's taking her to prom, but for the girl who's dating her best friend. Usually read by students in years 9, 10, or above

Vanessa Partidge lives with her dad, her brother and her ex-babysitter. Who just happens to be her dad's new wife. Her mother has disappeared with only sporadic contact. Vanessa isn't sure who she is and as she embarks on her usual family summer holiday at the beach, she starts to discover her own limits. Through a growing relationship with environmental activist Bodhi and a crush on her brother's best friend, Vanessa explores her sense of self. Usually read by students in Year 9, 10 & above.

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

A story for more mature readers about the tentative friendship between Linda and old Mrs Pugh in the nursing home. Usually read by students in Years 9, 10 or above.

Lee Raven, boy thief, has stolen something he really didn't mean to. Now he faces a perilous flight through London and the murky sewers below as he tries to escape capture. Lee has stolen the Book of Nebo, a book that has existed for thousands of years and tells every story and legend known to man.

Eighteen-year-old art student Susan Arkshaw arrives in London in search of her father. But before she can question crime boss Frank Thringley he's turned to dust by the prick of a silver hatpin in the hands of the outrageously attractive Merlin. Merlin is one of the youngest members of a secret society of booksellers with magical powers who police the mythic Old World wherever it impinges on the New World - in addition to running several bookshops, of course! Merlin also has a quest of his own: to find the Old World entity who arranged the murder of his mother. Soon they become involved in an even more urgent task to recover the grail that is the source of the left-handed booksellers' power, before it is used to destroy the booksellers and rouse the hordes of the mythic past. As the search for the grail becomes strangely intertwined with both their quests, they start to wonder... Is Susan's long-lost father a bookseller, or something altogether more mysterious?

A chance meeting with a hedgehog maid who is visiting Redwall Abbey reveals to Martin, the Warrior, a glimpse of the early life and family he can scarcely remember. He sets forth from the Abbey to seek the truth about the father he barely knew.

Thirteen-year-old Jack McKinley and his friends have fought shoulder-to-shoulder in an almost impossible mission to recover the lost Loculi hidden in the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. They have defeated the Colossus of Rhodes, visited Ancient Babylon, outfoxed legions of undead, and battled one of history's most powerful kings to recover four Loculi, but these successes have come at a price. Friends have been lost, ancient artifacts destroyed, and the very powers they've developed will soon overwhelm them. With a new threat to their mission developing, time is quickly running out to find the last of the lost Loculi.

The book tells the stories of the Butchulla people, the Indigenous people of Fraser Island and the Fraser Coast, Queensland. Published in 1964, it was the first Aboriginal children's book to be published and was written and designed by Butchulla siblings Moonie Jarl (Wilf Reeves) and Wandi (Olga Miller), both of whom have since passed away. The Legends of Moonie Jarl gives a deeper understanding and appreciation of Butchulla culture among the broader community, and contributes to community pride locally.

Some cultures believe there was a time when monsters and dragons roamed the earth and the gods walked among us. A time of blood, swords and furious battles, of legends, heroes, darkness and death, including human sacrifice. Myths and legends from around the world are told in gory and bloody detail.

In the cold, dead eyes of the Banshee, and the hissing, spitting fangs of the Gorgon, in the fiery breath of the dragon and the razor sharp claws of the Sphinx, there is a thirst for blood and a murderous hunger. But, it is a time of heroes and the teeth and claws of these beasts are no match for their lethal blades.

Discover the fascinating life of Leonardo Da Vinci and his many interests and talents. From the Mona Lisa to his flying machines, Da Vinci's work includes some of the most famous, and quirky, pieces in history.

when his family moves to Africa, Tom has mixed emotions until he spots a regal leopard outside his house. He quickly joins his new friends as they try to save the animal from being shot.

Twelve-year-old Gladys Rand may not have many friends, but at least she has her empire. From her table at the back of the cafeteria, Glad arranges favors for her classmates in exchange for their friendship. She solves every problem, handles every situation, and saves every butt. But the jobs keep getting harder, and when Glad decides the problem that most needs fixing is her parents' relationship, she finds herself in way over her head. She'll have to call in all her favors and use all her skills to help the person who most needs it- herself- in this quirky, touching, and laugh-out-loud novel from Janice Erlbaum.

Rachel is German and Jewish. With the outbreak of World War II, her life is changed. The family is forced to move from their comfortable home into cramped housing and, when the Nazis arrive, they don't know what is to become of them. But, Rachel's father gives her instructions that save her life. He also tells her not to speak.

John Sumner is a young boy crippled after contracting polio and growing up during World War I. He learns about taking risks and letting go to experience life.

Along with art, music and song, dance is an important part of Indigenous Australian culture. Dance has always been used to tell a story. NAISDA College is a great place to start to learn about Indigenous culture and dance.

Life is pretty good for sixteen-year-old Abby. Okay, her grandma has dementia and she accidentally kissed her cousin's cousin on the weekend, so not everything is perfect. But everything is manageable with her best friend Ella by her side. The arrival of new girl Chloe and her inclusion in the friendship group throws up some challenges for established relationships but when tragedy strikes Ella's family, Abby has to re-evaluate her own feelings and work out what friendship really means.

It's Matt's fifteenth birthday and he receives a card from his mother, whom he grew up believing to be dead. Feeling betrayed by both his parents, he begins writing letters to Leonardo da Vinci to help sort out the mess in his head. Through the connections he makes between his own life and that of Leonardo, Matt unravels the mystery and discovers his mother's secrets. Includes complex issues about mental health. Usually read by students in Years 9, 10 or above.

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

Juliet Young always writes letters to her mother, a world-traveling photojournalist. Even after her mother's death, she leaves letters at her grave. It's the only way Juliet can cope. Declan Murphy isn't the sort of guy you want to cross. In the midst of his court-ordered community service at the local cemetery, he's trying to escape the demons of his past. When Declan reads a haunting letter left beside a grave, he can't resist writing back. Soon, he's opening up to a perfect stranger, and their connection is immediate. But neither Declan nor Juliet knows that they're not actually strangers. When life at school interferes with their secret life of letters, sparks will fly as Juliet and Declan discover truths that might tear them apart. Usually read by students in years 9, 10 and above.

On the cusp of World War 1, Prince Aleksandar flees Austria in a Cyklop Stormwalker, a war machine that walks on two legs. In Britain, Deryn Sharp is training to be an airman, hoping no-one will discover she's a girl. She serves on the Leviathan, a massive biological airship, functioning as a self-contained ecosystem. When the two teens cross paths, the line between enemy and ally is no longer clear. Usually read by students in Years 9, 10 or above.

In November 1805, after a perilous trek across North America, William Clark and Meriwether Lewis finally spotted the Pacific Ocean. It was a triumphant, hard-won victory, after risking death by starvation, wild animals, poor weather and hostile Native American tribes.

Sixteen-year-old Lianna Bedford lives in constant fear. Political tensions in Pakistan are rising. Terrorist attacks are becoming an everyday norm. As a Pakistani-Australian, she could be the next target. When her school friends are taken hostage by terrorists, Lianna's world disappears overnight. Alongside her music teacher, Mr Kimberley, she must journey through rural Pakistan in a bid to find them and bring them home. But Mr Kimberley has a secret, and to save him and her friends, Lianna must overcome her fears. And dance for her life. 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.

This is not a threat. I have no demands. This is a statement of fact. Leave...or die. Jarli has lost a day. His missing memories may reveal the identity of Viper who just announced a plan to DESTROY the town of Kelton. Meanwhile, Doug is trapped in Vipers hidden prison. Hes been given up for dead by his family and friends...but he has a daring plan to ESCAPE. Jarli and his friends are close to unmasking Viper, but the master criminal has spies everywhere. Can Jarli tell his friends from his enemies in time to thwart Vipers final, terrible scheme? The TRUTH wont set them free...

Jarli and his friends are trapped in a hospital, held hostage by the villainous Viper and his venomous crew of armed mercenaries. Can Jarli outwit Viper and help his friends escape? A thrilling edge of your seat read.

Life had just begun to settle down for Jarli. After his Truth App went viral and set the mysterious crime lord Viper against him, he's been trying to lay low. But when a small plane crashes into one of his schoolmate's house and all of the crew and passengers have disappeared, his life is thrown into chaos once again as he tries to unravel the mystery behind the crash - and protect his life!

Jarli is attempting to have a normal life, but it's hard when you've created the Truth App, which can tell when someone is lying by analysing their voice. When Jarli and his best friend enter a robobattle, he's approached by government bodyguards for the Minister of Defence. They want Jarli to appear at a press conference to prove the Minister isn't lying but then Jarli is framed for a crime he didn't commit, and someone has hacked the truth app, making it impossible to prove his innocence. Jarli will have to rely on his friends and quick thinking to clear his name and save his life!

THE TRUTH APP is the latest craze in the town of Kelton. It listens to everyone around you and tells you if they're lying. When the app goes viral, its teenage creator, Jarli, becomes famous overnight. But being a celebrity can be dangerous. Especially when you've just exposed everyone's deepest, darkest secrets. Now everyone is out to get Jarli. Kids at school. Teachers. The police. Even his own family. And the secret network of criminals based in Kelton have just added Jarli to their hit list. The TRUTH doesn't always set you free...

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.

Darcy Wells is a literary genius who has spent most of her time living in the world of her books. There, she escapes the real world of her mother's hoarding and pretends her life is simple and ordinary. When a new property manager becomes more active in the upkeep of their apartment complex suddenly her home hangs in the balance. While Darcy is struggling to survive beneath the weight of her mother's compulsive shopping, Asher Fleet, a former teen pilot with an unexpectedly shattered future, walks into the bookstore where she works and straight into her heart. After spending her whole life trying to keep people out, something about Asher makes Darcy want to open up. Securing her own happily-ever-after will mean she'll need to stop hiding and start living her own truth - even when it's messy.

The Library of Souls is the thrilling conclusion to the Miss Peregrine's Peculiar Children series. Jacob, who has discovered a new ability, Emma Bloom a girl with a powerful gift of fire and Addison MacHenry, a dog who can find lost children are battling to follow the trail of their friends and beloved Miss Peregrine. They will journey to Devil's Acre, the worst slum of Victorian England times, where the future of all Peculiar Children will be decided. Usually read by students in Years 9, 10 & above.

Venetia King is the coolest girl at school. Too bad Lemar is the second shortest guy in his year. Everyone calls him Liccle Bit. Things aren't much better at home. His mum is permanently hassled, his sister a frustrated single mum and his dad moved out years ago. Liccle Bit wishes he could do something to make life better. Even a new phone would be good. When a gang war breaks out, Liccle Bit somehow finds himself running errands for Crongton's notorious gang leader. But, when he hears about a killing on the estate, Liccle is forced to question his choices. Usually read by students in Years 9, 10 or above.

Goal-kicking, super-girl, soccer star. Gracie Faltrain is on her way. To the National Championships. To Nick. To everything she's ever wanted. Or so she thinks. Gracie's about to find out that life is messy. And hard. And beautiful. There's a shadow falling across her mum and dad. Her best friend is about to leave town. She's trying desperately to be with the right boy, on the edge of falling in love with the wrong boy. She's rushing headlong into screwing up, making up, trying to keep it all together. Welcome to the life and times of Gracie Faltrain.

A compilation of prize-winning stories from the annual ""Tim Winton Young Writers Competition"".

Maya Angelou's brave, defiant poem celebrates the courage within each of us, young and old. From the scary thought of panthers in the park to the unsettling scene of a new classroom, fearsome images are summoned and dispelled by the power of faith in ourselves. Angelou's strong words are matched by the daring vision of artist Jean-Michel Basquiat, whose childlike style reveals the powerful emotions and fanciful imaginings of childhood. Together, Angelou's words and Basquiat's paintings create a place where everyone may experience their own fearlessness.

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

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

The Earth is the most remarkable life-support system imaginable, constructed over millions of years. As biodiversity has declined the planet's stability has also. To restore our planet, we must restore biodiversity. We must rewind the world.

After being stranded on prehistoric earth, Ford and Arthur again find themselves travelling through space, this time with the task of saving the galaxy from a kind, family loving race of aliens who just happen to want to kill all other lifeforms. Usually read by students in years 9, 10 and above.

Marie Kondo presents the fictional story of Chiaki, a young woman in Tokyo who struggles with a cluttered apartment, messy love life, and lack of direction. After receiving a complaint from her attractive next-door neighbor about the sad state of her balcony, Chiaki gets Kondo to take her on as a client. Through a series of entertaining and insightful lessons, Kondo helps Chiaki get her home, and life, in order. This insightful, illustrated case study is perfect for people looking for a fun introduction to the KonMari Method of tidying up, as well as tried-and-true fans of Marie Kondo eager for a new way to think about what sparks joy. Featuring illustrations by award-winning manga artist Yuko Uramoto, this book also makes a great read for manga and graphic novel lovers of all ages.

On an island junkyard beneath a sky that glows with radiation, a deadly secret lies buried in the scrap. Seventeen-year-old Eve isn't looking for trouble--she's too busy looking over her shoulder. The robot gladiator she spent months building has been reduced to a smoking wreck, she's on the local gangster's wanted list, and the only thing keeping her grandpa alive is the money she just lost to the bookies. If she's ever had a worse day, Eve can't remember it. Her discovery of a handsome android named Ezekiel--called a "Lifelike" because they resemble humans--will bring her world crashing down and make her question whether her entire life is a lie. With her best friend Lemon Fresh and her robotic sidekick Cricket in tow, Eve will trek across deserts of glass, battle unkillable bots, and infiltrate towering megacities to save the ones she loves...and learn the truth about secrets of her past. 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 a world where everything is monitored and controlled, the ability to time travel intrigues three teenagers. As they experiment to enhance the ability within themselves, they discover a few limitations. They can only go into the future and then must return to exactly the same spot. Perfecting their skill places them and others in extreme danger, the least of which is being discovered by the authorities.

Age is no barrier to creating poetry that inspires social change and positive action. Thirteen-year-old award-winning slam poet Solli Raphael is taking on the world - one word at a time. The future needs you and me to create equality across all levels of humanity - Solli.

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

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

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

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.

Themes of bullying and prejudice interweave in this story of gentle Hector and two neighbouring boys. Usually read by students in Years 9, 10 or above.

Charlie meets six lions while stowed away on a circus ship bound for Paris on his quest to find his parents. Contains mature themes.

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.

Charlie Ashanti is on the run with six homesick, beautiful lions. He has promised to help the lions find their way back to the circus but Charlie has his own problems. His parents have been kidnapped and Charlie is being hunted by villains.

Charlie has found his parents, but his old enemies are closing in and hunting the Ashanti family. Contains mature themes.

Accompanied by the legendary Shang Dragon, Alanna must attempt the impossible - recover the fabled Dominion jewel. And she must work fast. Tortall is in terrible danger. Roger Conte is back.

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

Lirael has never felt like a true daughter of the Clayr, abandoned by her mother and ignorant of her father's identity. She doesn't even have the Sight, the ability to See into the present and possible futures, that is the birthright of the Clayr. She must undertake a desperate mission against an ancient evil that blocks the Sight of the Clayr and threatens to break the boundary between Life and Death itself.

A companion story to Mike, Lisdalia tells her own story which focuses on her Italian family relationships, racism, bullying and rebellion.

Lisette's gap year after high school begins with a three month trip to Paris. Lisette has never known her father who left before she was born, and knows how much her mother has done for her, so this trip is fulfilling one of her mother's dreams. But is it hers? Should she study art history as her mother wants, when vintage clothing is really her passion? Plus there is the hope that the city of love will weave its magic. When it does there are many hard decisions to make.

Layla has ended the school year on a high and can't wait to spend the holidays hanging out with her friends and designing a prize-winning Grand Designs Tourismo invention. But Layla's plans are interrupted when her grandmother in Sudan falls ill and the family rush to be with her. The last time Layla went to Sudan she was only a young child. Now she feels torn between her Sudanese and Australian identities. As political tensions in Sudan erupt, so too do tensions between Layla and her family. Layla is determined not to lose her place in the invention team, but will she go against her parents' wishes? What would a Kandaka do? Usually read by students in years 9, 10 and above.

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

The adventures of the boys from the school and more of the story of the March family, set at Plumfield School, run by Jo and her husband on the lines of her husband's theories of education.

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.

Her mother's in jail. Her best friend betrayed her. Who can Alison trust? Hidden pasts, Unexpected betrayals, twisted friendships, sweet revenge, Let the drama begin...

Al Miller wishes she was an only child. Al Miller is counting down the days until her over-achieving older sister Larrie finishes Year Twelve and leaves Whitlam High School for ever. Then, Al is certain, people will finally see her as more than just 'Larrie's little sister'. But when a rumour about Larrie spreads around school, Al finds herself in the spotlight for all the wrong reasons. Who's behind the rumour? And will it kill Al's chances with school hunk, Josh Turner? Usually read by students in years 9, 10 and above.

Caitlyn is, in many ways, a normal thirteen year old girl with friends, teachers, and divorced parents. Caitlyn also has a spark. This comes out in her exceptional writing. Her dad probably does more than anyone to nurture this spark by creating fun and unexpected events for them on their weekends together. The balance she has found in spending time with both parents is threatened when her mum's boyfriend is offered a dream job in London. Caitlyn must fight to have a say in whether she stays in Melbourne with her dad or moves overseas with her mum.

The world is changing for two girls in China is the 1970s. Da Qin and her sister live in the city of Wuhan with their parents. When their country's leader, Chairman Mao, dies, new opportunities begin to emerge. The sisters soon learn that their childhood will be much different than the upbringing their parents experienced. Eight short stories-based on the author's own life- give readers a unique look at what it was like to grow up in China during this important time in history.

The classic story of the four March sisters, growing up in a close, American family during the Civil War. Even though money is short, times are tough and their father is away at war, the girls' infectious sense of fun sweeps everyone up in their adventures. Through sisterly squabbles, their happy times and sad ones too, the sisters discover that growing up is sometimes very hard to do.

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.

How would it feel to find out that there was another world out there, a world beneath the world, hidden away like the secret caramel centre of a chocolate or a pearl tucked in an oyster's shell? A world where Alice could be accepted, even loved? To know that the world existed, but that she could never go there, that the doors would always be locked against her...Millie didn't want to think about it.

Christopher's destiny, by virtue of his possession of nine lives, is to be the next Chrestomanci, a position of awesome magical responsibility, but he rebels against it.

Living on Hope Street is a glimpse of modern day Australia through the lens of a single street and the families that make their lives along it. Kane will do everything he can to save his mother and his little brother Sam from the violence of his father, even if it means becoming a monster himself. Mrs Aslan will protect the boys no matter what, even though her own family is in pieces. Ada wants a family she can count on, while she faces new questions about herself. Mr Bailey is afraid of the refugees next door, but his worst fear will take another form. And Gugulethu is just trying to make a life away from terror. On this street, everyone comes from different places, but to find peace they will have to discover what unites them. A deeply moving, unflinching portrait of modern Australian suburban life. Usually read by students in Years 9, 10 or above.

Living on Stolen Land is a prose-styled look at our colonial-settler present. A perceptive and thoughtful examination of the colonial contextual history of Australia. It pulls apart the myths at the heart of our nationhood, and challenges Australia to come to terms with its own past and its place within and on Indigenous Countries. Usually read by students in years 9, 10 and above.

Bendy, whose family runs a scrivener's shop, solves the mystery when the master printer, William Caxton, fails to receive the paper shipped to him aboard the cargo ship, Madalena. A classic about the Caxton printing press.

What secrets lie in the ruins of Loamhedge? When young haremaid Martha Braebuck arrived at Redwall Abbey, she was unable to walk - and no beast knows why.

Skiff Beaman needs to fix his family's fishing boat but, to do this, he needs money. With his Dad spending his days on the TV couch since his mother died, Skiff decides that fishing for Bluefin tuna is his only solution.

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.

When Lockie moves to a coastal town where his dad is the new police officer, he has trouble settling in. Live each agonising, embarrassing adolescent moment as he makes friends and has a torrid love affair with Vickie, prettiest girl in town.

When Lockie moves to a coastal town where his dad is the new police officer, he has trouble settling in. Live each agonising, embarrassing adolescent moment as he makes friends and has a torrid love affair with Vickie, prettiest girl in town.

The further adventures of Lockie Leonard as he holds his family together during his mum's illness. Adolescent issues are explored within strong family relationships. Courage, character and humour prevail even when Lockie is sorely tested.

Lockie, has been dumped by his girlfriend, but his attention focuses on a local environmental disaster. Lockie wonders if he will ever get the adults to take him seriously.

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.

After leaving Lockwood & Co. at the end of The Hollow Boy, Lucy is a freelance operative, hiring herself out to agencies that value her ever-improving skills. One day she is pleasantly surprised by a visit from Lockwood, who tells her he needs a good Listener for a tough assignment. Penelope Fittes, the leader of the giant Fittes Agency wants them--and only them--to locate and remove the Source for the legendary Brixton Cannibal. They succeed in their very dangerous task, but tensions remain high between Lucy and the other agents. Even the skull in the jar talks to her like a jilted lover. What will it take to reunite the team? Black marketeers, an informant ghost, a Spirit Cape that transports the wearer, and mysteries involving Steve Rotwell and Penelope Fittes just may do the trick. But, in a shocking cliffhanger ending, the team learns that someone has been manipulating them all along... Usually read by students in years 9, 10 and above.

Join Lockwood, Lucy, George, Holly, and their associate Quill Kipps on a perilous night mission: they have broken into the booby-trapped Fittes Mausoleum, where the body of the legendary psychic heroine Marissa Fittes lies. Or does it? Will Lockwood ever reveal more about his family's past to Lucy? Will their trip to the Other Side leave Lucy and Lockwood forever changed? Will Penelope Fittes succeed in shutting down their agency forever? The young agents must survive attacks from foes both spectral and human before they can take on their greatest enemy in a climactic and chaotic battle. And to prevail they will have to rely on help from some surprising--and shadowy--allies. Jonathan Stroud once again delivers a rousing adventure full of danger, laughs, twists, and frights. The revelations will send readers back to Book 1 to start the series all over again.

As a supernatural outbreak baffles Scotland Yard and causes protests against the psychic agencies, Lockwood and Co continue to demonstrate their effectiveness in exterminating spirits. A new haunting in an old school involves bloody handprints and the appearance of a glowing boy. But, ghosts seem to be the least of their concerns when living assassins attack during a carnival in the centre of the city.

Anthony, Lucy, and George of Lockwood & Co are searching for the mysterious Dr Bickerstaff to find the secret of communicating with the dead. A rival agency also wants the commission and the search becomes a challenge. The loser must publicly admit defeat. A fearsome phantom seems a real challenge until the whispering skull that Lucy has brought along becomes the key to saving life, limb and friendships.

Psychic Investigation Agencies have sprung up everywhere to deal with a horrifying epidemic of ghosts. Ambitious agent, Lucy Carlyle, arrives in London, hoping for a notable career. Instead, she joins the smallest most ramshackle agency, run by charismatic Anthony Lockwood. When a case goes horribly wrong, the agency must salvage its reputation. This means spending the night in a haunted house and trying to escape alive.

Seren longs to have the sunshine on her skin. But, when you're floating through space at thousands of kilometres an hour, you have to accept there are things you cannot change. But, when Dom arrives in her life, he changes everything and, for a while, he becomes the Sun for her. Being with him flaunts every rule designed to keep their home in order but to lose him would be like losing herself. In the end, they must decide what is most important, loyalty to the only home they've ever known or to each other.

As Tammo dreams of joining the Long Patrol, the legendary army of fighting hares that serves the Lady Cregga Rose Eyes, the brutal reality of a battle with Damug Warfang's battalion of savage Rapscallions fast approaches.

In 1931, a family's mother falls ill and their only hope is to reach their father working on the Great Ocean Road. The children set off on a long journey, with only a pram filled with their belongings, meeting all types of people on the way.

Will's brother was shot last night. This morning, he steps onto the elevator, on his way to get revenge. But as the elevator doors open on each floor on the way down to the lobby, ghosts from his past join him. What will he decide to do when he gets to the end of his journey? A powerful verse novel, Long Way Down deals with gun violence and the impact of a cycle of generational trauma. It is usually read by students in years 9, 10 and above.

Will's brother was shot last night. This morning, he steps onto the elevator, on his way to get revenge. But as the elevator doors open on each floor on the way down to the lobby, ghosts from his past join him. What will he decide to do when he gets to the end of his journey? This graphic novel version of Reynold's Long Way Down deals with gun violence and the impact of a cycle of generational trauma. It is usually read by students in years 9, 10 and above.

Jessica dreams of becoming a writer but the English private school that she attends does nothing to foster her talent.

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.

Bella and Connie have been close friends for years and they continue to support each other as they start high school and come out of the lockdowns imposed due to the pandemic. Connie's cousin, Mish, has shown up under some mysterious circumstances and the girls are forced to welcome the older girl into their friendship. Mish is not a good fit and does not want to be a good fit. Bella and Connie need to find the balance between doing what they think is right, while trying not to attract the wrath of Mish.

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

Sophisticated, simply well-written short stories that would appeal to both boys and girls dealing with mature themes including life choices, complex relationships and even time travel. Some strong language in context, may offend some readers. Usually read by students in Years 9, 10 or above.

Ungatt Trunn, the wildcat who can make the stars fall from the sky, has attacked with his Blue Hordes, and is determined that the fortress should be his.

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.

Arthur Penhaligon must complete his quest to save the Kingdom he is heir to.

Emily loves the bush and the native animals on her family's reforested property, particularly the beautiful rainbow lorikeets that nest in one of the tallest trees. But then her father is diagnosed with a terminal illness, and Emily's world enters a tailspin. Her twin brother, Alex, refuses to accept the truth. His coping mechanism is to build elaborate additions to his treehouse in the superstitious belief that it will avert disaster - leaving Emily to deal with harsh reality on her own. When Alex secretly adopts a feral kitten, going against everything that's important to Emily, the siblings' emotions reach boiling point - with potentially dangerous consequences for them all.

Danny Shine is in year seven. He isn't the most popular guy at school but he manages to stay out of trouble. That is, until Danny discover his name is on the Loser List in the girls' bathroom. When he gets caught trying to cross his name off the loser, Danny is sent to detention. He thought he had problems before but detention places him in a whole new world of trouble.

A fantastic addition to the Edge Chronicles series. Four exciting tales include well-known characters from the Edgeworld.

Thursday Next, literary detective and registered dodo owner, hears the disturbing news that her husband of one month drowned thirty-eight years ago. Someone, somewhere, sometime is responsible. To find out, Thursday heads back into fiction, where lost Shakespearian manuscripts, narrative loopholes and woolly mammoth migrations await. Sophisticated writing and humour, some coarse language. Usually read by students in Years 9,10 or above.

After defeating the Colossus of Rhodes and capturing the first of the Loculi, their friend Marco has disappeared. With no leads, no clues, and no one else to turn to, the kids have no choice but to trust Professor Bhegad and the Karai Institute again as they head off to Babylon in search of the next orb.

It's been five years since Wendy and her two brothers went missing in the woods, but when the town's children start to disappear, the questions surrounding her brothers' mysterious circumstances are brought back into the light. Attempting to flee her past, Wendy almost runs over an unconscious boy lying in the middle of the road . . . Peter, a boy she thought lived only in her stories, asks for Wendy's help to rescue the missing kids. But, in order to find them, Wendy must confront what's waiting for her in the woods. Usually read by students in years 9, 10 and above.

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

Not for the fainted-hearted! The creatures of the magical rainforest of Caldera needs the help of a young panther cub, Mez. With the help of a brave young bat, a knowledgeable frog and a somewhat nervous monkey, Mez travels through the rainforest to combat a dangerous and reawakened evil. This is a suspenseful and exciting novel.

Twig is all alone after his dad goes missing. But when he meets Flea, a cheerful pickpocket, the pair become fast friends. Together, Twig and Flea raise themselves on the crime-ridden streets, taking what they need and giving the rest to the even-poorer. Life is good, as long as they have each other. But then Twig wakes up in the Afterlife. With just a handful of vague memories, a key, a raven, and a mysterious atlas to guide him, he tries to piece together what happened, and to find his way home . . .

An allegory of responsibility, conformity and courageous social isolation told with humour.

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

Louis, is a young boy who shuttles between his mum's home in the city and his dad's house in the country, with his little brother, Truffle who loves to sing James Brown songs. While coming to terms with the sadness and complexities of his divorced parents' relationship, Louis - with the help of his best friend, Boris - is also trying to summon up the courage to speak to his true love, Billie. A thoughtful and stunning graphic novel. Usually read by students in Year 9, 10 and above.

The dying wish of 16-year-old Lina's mother was for her daughter to live in Tuscany and get to know her father Howard, whom Lina has never met. Why did her mother wait so long to tell her about him? Waiting for her at Howard's home is a journal kept by her mother while she was a photography student in Florence. With the help of her mother's journal and her neighbour Ren, Lina uncovers a magical world full of secret romances, art and hidden bakeries. But she also learning more about her mother than ever before, following in her footsteps, and finding out the truth about her father. But mostly she finds out about herself.

Nozomi has it all planned out--a summer in San Francisco, the perfect internship and fake dating the girl of her dreams. All she has to do now is turn the fauxmance with the perfect girl into something real. But when it comes to love, there's no such thing as the perfect plan.... Usually read by students in years 9, 10, or above. Usually read by students in years 9, 10, or above.

Everyone expects that Frankie and her childhood friend, Sam, will become boyfriend and girlfriend, Even Sam seems to think this. Frankie is surrounded by loving family and friends, but it is Sally who fascinates Frankie and takes up all her time. Sally seems to like being adored, but is she actualy interested in Frankie's affections?

Sixteen-year-old Ana is a poet and a lover of language. Except that since she moved to New Jersey from Argentina, she can barely find the words to express how she feels. At first Ana just wants to return home. Then she meets Harrison, the very cute, very American boy in her math class, and discovers the universal language of racing hearts. But when she begins to spend time with Neo, the Greek Cypriot boy from ESL, Ana wonders how figuring out what her heart wants can be even more confusing than the grammar they're both trying to master. After all, the rules of English may be confounding, but there are no rules when it comes to love. Usually read by students in years 9, 10, or above.

Fifteen-year-old Phoebe thinks falling in love is vile and degrading, and vows never to do it. Then, due to circumstances not entirely in her control, she finds herself volunteering at a local thrift shop. There she meets Emma . . . who might unwittingly upend her whole theory on life. Usually read by students in years 9, 10, or above.

This is a collection of short stories about the ups and downs of adolescence.

Teddy Sharpe is Hollywood famous. But he's just been dumped by his girlfriend and is stuck in an airport far from home. He accepts an invitation from Bennett Caldwell to stay at her house. Teddy has just auditioned for the movie adaptation of Bennett's book and is hoping to get the lead role. What he didn't expect was the fall in love with Bennet and her family. If only the internet would stay out of their relationship, things might go smoothly for the two of them.

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

After her father and younger sister die in a car accident, Aubrey's mother can't cope and abandons her. Aubrey goes to live with her grandmother in Vermont and finds solace in gran's love. When her mother reappears, Aubrey must decide whether to return home or stay. Highly emotive, requiring a mature reader. Usually read by students in Years 9, 10 and above.

16year-old and not-so-openly gay Simon Spier prefers to save his drama for the school musical. But when an email falls into the wrong hands, his secret is at risk of being thrust into the spotlight. Now Simon is actually being blackmailed: if he doesn't play wingman for class clown Martin, his sexual identity will become everyone's business. Worse, the privacy of Blue, the pen name of the boy he's been emailing, will be compromised. With some messy dynamics emerging in his once tight-knit group of friends, and his email correspondence with Blue growing more flirtatious every day, Simon's junior year has suddenly gotten all kinds of complicated. Now, change-averse Simon has to find a way to step out of his comfort zone before he's pushed out - without alienating his friends, compromising himself, or fumbling a shot at happiness with the most confusing, adorable guy he's never met. Also published under the title "Simon vs the homosapiens agenda".

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

Richard Feynman was a Nobel Prize-winning physicist. Catherine is a science-loving, fifteen year old, just trying to survive school. When Catherine's father gives her a photo of the gifted scientist, she develops a crush on him. Eventually, Catherine has to deal with betrayal by both her father and her idol. Some teenage drinking and strong language, used in context. Usually read by students in Years 9, 10 and above.

They were loyal creatures, the men and horses of the Australian Light Horse. But war doesn't always pay heed to loyalty. This is the powerful story of a young man's journey towards his own kind of bravery.

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

Not all is froth and bubble in Lucy's celebrity world. Her parents are on the verge of breaking up over some earth-shattering rumours and Lucy must come to terms with their fallibility and her own. Lucy juggles the cat walk, the soccer pitch, the high life and the good life as she learns the value of relationships.

Lucy appears to have everything, looks, brains, her parents are an international sports star and owners of a successful fashion label. All they want is for her to be a top fashion model, even more successful than her mother. But Lucy has the soccer gene and all she wants is to be as successful as her father who plays for Milan.

Fourteen-year-old Lucy cannot believe her luck when she starts working in Louisa Lawson's female printery. But it is the 1880s and male printers everywhere think this type of work should be left to the men. When the union too decides to make life difficult for Lucy and her printer friends, Lucy knows she has many battles ahead. Along the way she will realise who her real friends are, and find first love.

Following an accident, Rene's twin brother, Theo, lies unconscious, with massively disrupted brain function. An experimental procedure, risky, scientifically exciting and ethically questionable, could allow Theo to gain a new life. Only Rene can give the required consent. But, first, there is the question of Rene's capacity to make the decision and this is where the real story begins. Challenging read, usually read by students in Years 9, 10 or above.

Ever since her father was exposed as a witch and a traitor, Winnie and her family have been shunned. But on her sixteenth birthday, she can take the deadly Luminary hunter trials and prove herself true and loyal -- and restore her family's good name. Or die trying. But in order to survive, Winnie enlists the help of the one person who can help her train: Jay Friday, resident bad boy and Winnie's ex-best friend. While Jay might be the most promising new hunter in Hemlock Falls, he also seems to know more about the nightmares of the forest than he should. Together, he and Winnie will discover a danger lurking in the forest no one in Hemlock Falls is prepared for. Not all monsters can be slain, and not all nightmares are confined to the dark. 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.

A disturbing tale of strange and dangerous beings beyond the physical world. When fourteen year old Verity sees a weird, semi-visible figure, her brother tells her it is a harmless Lurker. But Lurkers feed on human imagination and this one is using her brother to become more solid and independent. Verity must fight to save her brother's mind.

Lyddie is a survivor of hard times in a nineteenth century American cotton mill.

Lyla has just started her second year of high school when a magnitude 6.3 earthquake shakes Christchurch to pieces. Devastation is everywhere. While her police officer mother and trauma nurse father respond to the disaster, Lyla puts on a brave face, opening their home to neighbours and leading the community clean-up. But soon she discovers that it's not only familiar buildings and landscapes that have vanished - it's friends and acquaintances too. As the earth keeps shaking day after day, can Lyla find a way to cope with her new reality?