Booklists

When Jake Green meets a spooky old bloke in a dark alley one evening, a series of unfortunate events is set in motion. Jake is given a box containing a severed finger, which summons a grim reaper to drag him to the Eternal Void, and now they are running for their lives - even though Stiffkey, the spooky old bloke, is already dead. Now that he can see and speak to ghosts, Jake finds himself the leader of a strange little gang - Stiffkey the undertaker, Cora - the hockey stick wielding poltergeist, and Zorro the ghost fox. They have one mission - get the finger to the Embassy before the baddies can find it and use it to unleash hell on earth while keeping ahead of Mawkins, the grim reaper. Will they make it in time and avoid everlasting damnation in the void?

Ella and her brother Emery are alone in a city that's starving to death. If they are going to survive, they must get away, upcountry, to find Emery's mum. But how can two kids travel such big distances across a dry, barren, and dangerous landscape? Well, when you've got five big doggos and a dry-land dogsled, the answer is you go mushing. But when Emery is injured, Ella must find a way to navigate them through rough terrain, and even rougher encounters with desperate people.

Through humour, this book provides snapshots of ancient Greece from a slave's point of view.

This book tells you everything you need to know about your body from head to toe plus things you probably don't want to know. Find out about the inner workings of the human body in a very funny way.

Discover thirty-five extraordinary houses, designed by the world's most prominent architects. Houses that look like pears, inflatable houses, igloos, tea houses and tree houses. Explains the inspiration behind each design and the materials used, including ecological options.

Facts and accounts about poisons used for cures but often killing people by accident.

Find out about the people, the events, organisations and activities that are working towards reconciliation all around Australia. The book is presented by an Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australian, each of whom has a special association with the topic.

The poem, My Country, is widely regarded as the universal statement of why Australians love their country. Stunning watercolour illustrations capture the diversity of the landscape and its colours.

Sarah has come from Maine to live on the prairie farm to be mother to two children, but she misses the sea.

A young boy watches various artists who come to his island over the summer. He tries to learn something from each one in the hope that he might, one day, be able to paint the wind.

Beauty. Colour. Doubts . As a little girl in Rome, Elsa Schiaparelli was told she was not pretty. What is beauty Elsa wondered as she grew older. So she sought out beauty around her and found it everywhere: in the colours and scents of the Rome flower market, in the garden, and in the attic of her family home, buried in a chest of old dresses. She found affection from her dear uncle in Milano. She developed an artist's eye and imagination. These bloomed in the wildly imaginative dresses, hats, shoes, and jewellery that made her an important name in fashion. Defining beauty on her own creative and rebellious terms was the key to Elsa Schiaparelli's happiness and success, and is still seen today in her legacy of wild imagination. Daring and different, Elsa Schiaparelli used art to make fashion, and it was quite marvellous.

An hilarious and irreverent account of convent life, told in cheeky verse.

Through labelled diagrams, the Brainwaves present the inventing of the lens, steam engine, light bulb, generator, internal combustion engine, transistor, gunpowder, and many other everyday inventions and scientific discoveries.

In this exploration of oceans, see ocean research vessels in operation and discover how jellyfish catch prey with their slime. Includes photographs of deep-sea creatures and models of the sea floor providing insight into marine life.

When Jack's mother is very sick, he is able to prevent her dying by squeezing Old Man Death into an empty hazelnut. But, trouble begins for the people and the food in the village and Jack learns a powerful lesson about life and death.

Magic is making the impossible possible. And there are tons of tips and tricks in this book, but the real magic is finding the good vibes every day in everything you do. Learn to bring positive energy and positive people into your life. Once you get the hang of it, life gets a whole lot easier and a whole lot more fun.

Garland Maddigan, twelve year old daughter of Fantasia's ringmaster, has made this trip before. The journey has frightening new challenges when three mysterious children join the travellers and sinister strangers follow them.

After discovering a long buried, mysterious device in his back yard, Michael inadvertently causes his Gran to become inhabited by an alien. Michael and his best friend, Elvis set out to remedy the situation, only to discover the future of the Earth is at stake. Elvis is the expert in science fiction and technology, while Michael is quick thinking and can scheme his way out of trouble, as quickly as he gets into it.

A precious recount of growing up in the early days of the Papunya settlement in central Australia. The author tells about going bush with her family and learning about her culture and way of life.

Stories in this collection include Aladdin, Jack and the Wizard, Silver Penny and Two Wizards with many more.

Samsara Dog lived many lives. Some were long, while others lasted only a few days. Dog never remembered them. He lived each life as it came until he learned the most important lesson of all.

When Thaddeus Bix is kidnapped by a gang of pirates and thrown inside a magical sea chest, he thinks things have gone pretty bad. Little does he know they are just about to get worse. A swashbuckling adventure on the high seas awaits, with Thaddeus and his new friends Molly and Juniper as they attempt to outwit and escape a crew of stinking pirates, wizards, witches, giant talking spiders and worse.

When all the pawpaws go missing from a pawpaw tree in the school garden, and then all the bananas from the banana trees too, each student at Manyallaluk School has a theory. It has to be the crows! Or could it be wild pigs? Or even an emu? Who or what is stealing fruit from their beautiful garden? How will the mystery be solved?

The Great War was a senseless tragedy that brought sorrow to families all over the world. This is the story five brothers who served, compiled from over five hundred letters and postcards, written from the battle front. From the training grounds of Victoria, Egypt and England, to the Western Front battlefields, this compelling, true story was compiled by the granddaughter of a surviving brother. This is a story of mateship, bravery and sacrifice, and a heartbreaking account of a family torn apart by war.

Peijing and Biju find themselves in a new and very different country with their mum, dad and grandmother. While all family members must come to terms with the new and strange place, the girls find friends and a community at school, something the adults do not have to help them adjust. The family are faced with many kinds of change and each member will respond in their own way to these changes.

James' family is changing, and he doesn't like it. He wants to travel back in time and live in one of his favourite memories, but which one will he choose? How will he choose? And can his new friend Yan really build a time machine? What would you do if you had six memories to go back to? How would you choose?

Alexandra is a princess, albeit by her own description, a very plain looking one. She lives happily with the Queen and her three talented brothers but less happily with her father, the King. After her mother is killed by a terrible beast, Alexandra is banished to stay with her aunt and her brothers are exiled. Alexandra must find the inner strength to oppose her step-mother, restore her brothers and, thereby, heal the land.

Cavaliers and Roundheads battle it out in the turbulent setting of the English Civil war, providing the background for this classic tale of four orphans trying to survive in the forest.

Mr Murlin is not an ordinary teacher. His rules are amazing, like eating chocolate in class is compulsory. Johnny and Max love being in his class but still get into lots of scrapes. Contains language and actions that may offend some readers.

Boss Ladies conquer in this celebration of inspiring and empowered scientists from around the world. At the top of their fields across all areas of science these amazing women answer big questions and invent grand solutions. Every boss lady was once a little kid with a huge dream. Let their trials and triumphs inspire you to work hard at what you love, no matter whether you fail or succeed.

KLAUS (Knowledge Learning and Understanding System) the robot is here to take you on a journey of discovery. With fun facts and challenges to solve, this book of general facts will answer all your questions about space, humans, Earth, science, animals, and maths.

Marion, a wooden doll, has her loyal friends, Harley, and Polka, the dog. Marion longs for adventure and is lured by the world of glamour and fame. She becomes a glamorous Star but learns, painfully, that stardom has a use-by-date.

Ten Aboriginal dreaming stories of the Yorta-Yorta people, with beautiful illustrations and information about the animals.

Let your imagination fly in this evocative, wordless picture book.

Claudia has always been the most creative kid in her class... until Ashley Wyeth comes along. Ashley says Claudia is a great artist, too, but thinks shes wasting her artistic talent with the BSC. When Claudia starts spending more time with Ashley and missing BSC meetings, it becomes clear that Claudia has to make a decision... one of them has to go!

Stacey McGill is moving back to New York. That means no more Stoneybrook Middle School, no more Charlotte Johanssen, and worst of all ... no more Baby-sitters Club. Stacey's friends are crushed when they hear that Stacey's moving, especially Claudia. Stacey was her first best friend. What kind of going-away present is good enough for someone so special? How will the BSC go on without Stacey?

Kristy's mother got remarried and their family moved to the ritzy neighbourhood across town. The other members of the Baby-sitters Club think it's a good opportunity to get some new business, but the kids who live nearby aren't very friendly. They criticize Kristy's clothes and make fun of the BSC. And, worst of all, they laugh at Louie, Kristy's pet collie, who's getting old and not feeling well. These kids are total snobs but if anyone can put them in their place, it's the Baby-sitters Club!

Stacey and Mary Anne are baby-sitting for the Pike family for two weeks at the New Jersey shore. Things are great in Sea City: There's a gorgeous house right on the beach, a boardwalk, plenty of sun and sand... and the cutest boy Stacey has ever seen! Mary Anne thinks that Stacey should leave Scott alone and focus on the Pike kids, but Stacey's in love. Looking for reasons to hang around his lifeguard stand takes up all of her time, which means Mary Anne has to do the job of two baby-sitters. Mary Anne doesn't like it one bit! How can she tell Stacey that Scott just isn't interested without ruining their friendship and breaking Stacey's heart?

Dawn Schafer is the newest member of The Baby-sitters Club. While she's still adjusting to life in Stoneybrook after moving from sunny California, she's eager to accept her first big job. On top of all that, Dawn wants to fit in with the other members of the BSC, but she can't figure out how to get along with Kristy.

Kristy's mum is getting married, and Kristy is going to be a bridesmaid! The only problem? Fourteen kids are coming to town for the wedding. Kristy, Claudia, Mary Anne, Stacey, Dawn, and Mallory think they can handle it, but that's before they spend a week changing nappies, stopping arguments, solving mix-ups, and planning activities. It's the biggest job the Baby-Sitters Club has ever had, but they'll work together to make sure Kristy's big day is a success!

It's the first day of a new school year, and while Mary Anne doesn't know what to expect from the eighth grade, she's looking forward to getting back into the swing of things. One thing she definitely doesn't expect is to meet Logan Bruno, who just moved to Stoneybrook! Logan has a dreamy southern accent, he's awfully cute... and he might be interested in joining the BSC. But the baby-sitters aren't sure if Logan would make a good club member, so they send him on a job with Mary Anne as a test. Logan and Mary Anne hit it off, but Mary Anne isn't sure of where their friendship could go. Life in the Baby-sitters Club has never been this complicated - or this fun!

Claudia and her sister, Janine, may as well be from two different planets. Claudia, who pays more attention to her artwork and The Baby-sitters Club than her homework, feels like she can't compete with her perfect sister. Janine studies nonstop, gets straight As, and even takes college-level courses! But when something unexpected happens to the most beloved person in their family, will the sisters be able to put aside their differences?

Kristy, Mary Anne, Claudia, and Stacey are best friends and founding members of The Baby-sitters Club. Whatever comes up - cranky toddlers, huge dogs, scary neighbours, prank calls - you can count on them to save the day. Baby-sitting isn't always easy, and neither is dealing with strict parents, new families, fashion emergencies, and mysterious secrets. But no matter what, the BSC have what they need most: friendship.

When The Baby-sitters Club gets into a huge fight, Mary Anne is left to her own devices. She has to eat by herself in the school cafeteria, figure out how to make new friends, and deal with her overprotective father. But the worst happens when she finds herself in a baby-sitting emergency and can't turn to her friends for help. Will Mary Anne solve her problems and save The Baby-sitters Club from falling apart?

Poor Stacey. She just moved to a new town, is still coming to terms with her diabetes, and is facing baby-sitting problems left and right. Fortunately, Stacey has three new friends - Kristy, Claudia, and Mary Anne. Together they're the BSC - and they will deal with whatever's thrown their way... even if it's a rival baby-sitting club!

It isn't easy being the son of two of the smartest people in the galaxy, especially when everyone at your new school expects you to be a genuius too! Kelvin Klosmo and his interterrestial friends will need to work together to save the universe, because you never know in a science space station, if one of the scientists will turn out to be a mad robot.

Come on a guided tour around the world and discover the many things that make each place unique. Sleepy sloths, colourful cows, prolific pastries, staggering skylines and teeming traffic; you'll be surprised what you find along the way. There' so much to discover, experience and learn from our planet.

A collection of poems connected by many of the key days and celebrations throughout the year in Australia. It includes special days such as Chinese New Year, Harmony Day, Diwali, Ramadan and ANZAC Day, as well as important days like your birthday and the first day of school.

Toby and his mum and dad are leaving their family farm after the death of Toby's younger sister Leah. Together they sort through all of their belongings and put things aside to sell or throw out. Toby doesn't want to leave the only place he's called home. As his last day on the farm approaches, Toby has a plan to say goodbye to all the things and places that mean something special to him and Leah. With the help of his best friend, Trigger the dog, he learns what it means to take your leave.

Full of warmth and humour, the poems provide snapshots of everyday family life, the fun of a beach holiday, raiding the fridge after school, fighting over whose turn it is to do the dishes, camping in the backyard and much more.

A collection of well-crafted literary poems with a rural theme.

Ruby's family and the dairy farm are struggling through the drought. Life isn't easy, but Ruby is determined to do her own bit to help save her family and the farm.

With sections on birds, Australian animals, pets, marine animals, farm animals, 'creepy crawly' ones and those in the wild, here is a huge variety of subject matter in many poetic forms including haiku, rhyming and non-rhyming verse using language to create wonderful word pictures for all who love animals as well as those who don't.

Advice to the beginner blader, whether young or old, on what equipment to use, where to skate and styles of blading, competitions and sponsorship. Introduces sports that use blading like hockey and speed skating.

Zafir has a comfortable life in Syria with his doctor father and journalist mother. But, everything changes after the Day of Rage, when Zafir's father is arrested, his mother is injured and their house is bombed. Zafir's cousin takes him in but, that too, becomes dangerous as the city becomes more and more besieged. Zafir fears that his family may never be reunited to live in peace again.

Livy has visited her maternal grandmother before, on her farm outside of Melbourne, Victoria - but, she was only five years old then, and she can't seem to remember much. Ten year old Livy returns from the USA to visit again, with her family and new baby sister Beth-Ann. Her grandmother shows her around, reminding her of all the fun they had last time she stayed, but only Livy seems to recall a 'wrong chicken'...

Jamie and Ellen Ross are alone in the world after the death of their father. Determined to make their fortune, they head to Beechworth, straight into the midst of the search for Ned Kelly, the most notorious bushranger of all time. There are two views of Ned Kelly, a hero wronged by the police or a cold-blooded murderer.

Marie's dad has been away for two years, fighting on the Somme battlefields in northern France. There hasn't been any word from him for months, no letters or postcards. Marie and her mother decide to travel to France, to try and find out what has happened to him. Marie experiences first-hand what war is like, as she tries to piece together the clues behind her dad's disappearance.

Prior to the 1930 Melbourne Cup horse race, an attempt was made to kill Phar Lap, the horse who won the race. Eleven year old Sally Fieldling's father is investigating and she documents the case, or what she learns of it, in her diary.

For Emilio Garcia Lopez, it's an ordinary school day in Mexico City. But, when his police-officer cousin arrives, flanked by a tall man in the uniform of the Federal Police, Emilio's long nightmare begins. Emilio's mother has been kidnapped in broad daylight by unidentified criminals, who appear to know a great deal about her business and who have mistaken her for a wealthy businesswoman.

Anahita Rosalind Ghorban-Galaszczuk (yes, that really is her name but you can call her Ana) is discovering that life is absurd. As if dying of cancer at the age of 12.5 isn't bad enough, she still has to endure daily insults from her nemesis, Alyssa (Queen Mean) Anderson. Ana's on a wild roller-coaster of life and death, kindness and cruelty, ordinary and extraordinary. And she's got a few things to do before she exits . . .

Love and betrayal on the River Nile, with the epic story of Antony, ruler of the Roman Empire, and Cleopatra, Queen of Egypt. This series gives young readers the chance to discover Shakespeare for themselves. Also included are useful notes on the themes within the stories and a background to the Globe Theatre.

Duke Senior has been forced into exile from the court by the usurping Duke Frederick. He takes refuge in the Forest of Arden with a band of faithful lords, and what follows is a hilarious tale of love and mistaken identity. This series gives young readers the chance to discover Shakespeare for themselves. Also included are useful notes on the themes within the stories and a background to the Globe Theatre.

Murder most foul. An action packed retelling of the blood-soaked story of Hamlet. This series gives young readers the chance to discover Shakespeare for themselves. Also included are useful notes on the themes within the stories and a background to the Globe Theatre.

Henry V presents the story of a battle for power after the legendary Hundred Years War. This series gives young readers the chance to discover Shakespeare for themselves. Also included are useful notes on the themes within the stories and a background to the Globe Theatre.

Rome's greatest general, Julius Caesar, returns to the city celebrating a glorious victory. But among the cheering crowds a group of conspirators are determined to prevent Caesar becoming king... With Notes on Shakespeare and the Globe Theatre and Liberty and Power in Julius Caesar.

Foolish and bad-tempered, King Lear divides the kingdom between his two wicked daughters, disowns his honest youngest daughter and banishes his friends. As the kingdom falls apart and Learn's humiliation turns him mad, will he finally realise what he has done?

A brilliant retelling of this wonderful tale of witches, murder and madness. This series gives young readers the chance to discover Shakespeare for themselves. Also included are useful notes on the themes within the stories and a background to the Globe Theatre.

This charming series gives young readers the chance to discover the magic of Shakespeare for themselves. In Venice, the merchant Antonio borrows money so his friend can woo a beautiful lady. He agrees that if he doesn't repay Shylock the moneylender, Shylock can take a pound of his flesh. When Antonio's ships sink and he loses his fortune, Shylock insists on the gruesome payment... With Notes on Shakespeare and the Globe Theatre and Love, Hate and Mercy in The Merchant of Venice.

The course of true love never did run smooth... A magical retelling of the classic love story of Hermia, Helen, Demetrius and Lysander - and of the impish fairy Puck, who meddles in their tangled web of love with hilarious consequences. This series gives young readers the chance to discover Shakespeare for themselves. Also included are useful notes on the themes within the stories and a background to the Globe Theatre.

The hilarious tale of two couples, one in love and one in hatred. This series gives young readers the chance to discover Shakespeare for themselves. Also included are useful notes on the themes within the stories and a background to the Globe Theatre.

Who can you trust? Othello grapples with this question, as his right hand man tries to convince him that his wife is unfaithful. This series gives young readers the chance to discover Shakespeare for themselves. Also included are useful notes on the themes within the stories and a background to the Globe Theatre.

Richard 3 was an unpopular king, and this tale explores how he gained, then lost, power during his reign. This series gives young readers the chance to discover Shakespeare for themselves. Also included are useful notes on the themes within the stories and a background to the Globe Theatre.

The classic tragic tale of Romeo and Juliet, two young lovers from warring families. This series gives young readers the chance to discover Shakespeare for themselves. Also included are useful notes on the themes within the stories and a background to the Globe Theatre.

Any two 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.

Lovely Bianca has a queue of admirers anxious to marry her. But her older sister, Katharina, must get married first. Katharina has such a fiery temper she is known as 'the shrew', and no man is brave enough to propose. Can Petruchio tame her with his outrageous behaviour? With Notes on Shakespeare and the Globe Theatre and Love and Marriage in The Taming of the Shrew.

Stranded on an island, Prospero causes a storm to destroy the ship carrying his enemies. This series gives young readers the chance to discover Shakespeare for themselves. Also included are useful notes on the themes within the stories and a background to the Globe Theatre.

A classic tale of romance from Shakespeare. This series gives young readers the chance to discover Shakespeare for themselves. Also included are useful notes on the themes within the stories and a background to the Globe Theatre.

Coco Chanel rose from poverty to become the founder of the famous fashion house of Chanel. The original and appealing illustrations give an extra dimension to the biography.

Henry lives with his father and sister on the Victorian goldfields. Still mourning the loss of his mother and baby brother, Henry helps his father mine their claim, hoping to strike it rich. But they can't afford a mining licence so are at the mercy of corrupt police. When Henry meets a new friend, he enters a world of politics, riots and rebellion that will lead him to Eureka Stockade, one of the defining moments in Australian history.

For years, Audrey has always believed she is destined to be alone. Even her younger sister calls her 'Nerd Girl'. However, her life is about change forever following her family's relocation to a vineyard in outback Australia. Upon arrival, Audrey meets a mysterious boy named Finch, who seems to understand her like no one else. There's just one problem, no one in the town even knows Finch exists.

Stacey wishes she could be more like her friend, Twyla. Twyla is confident, Stacey isn't. Twyla is daring, Stacey isn't. When a gypsy gives Stacey a gold heart pin, everything changes and Stacey starts behaving like the person she has always wanted to be.

It's 1930 and Ruby Quinlan lives in a big house in Adelaide with her parents and her fox terrier, Baxter. As she gets ready for her twelfth birthday party, Ruby has never been happier. But, the world she knows is collapsing and people everywhere are losing their jobs and their homes. Soon Ruby's comfortable life will fall apart in ways she could never have imagined. Meet Ruby and join her adventure in the first of four stories about a happy-go-lucky girl in a time of great change.

It's 1850 and Nellie's best friend, Mary, is gravely ill. To provide Mary with the care she needs, Nellie must break a promise and go on a quest to find the Thompson family. Nellie's not sure if they will be able to help. Then Nellie's problems compound when her own life is in danger.

It's 1931 and Ruby and her family have lost everything in the Great Depression. Leaving behind her dad, her school friends and everything she knows, Ruby moves to Kettle Farm to stay with her cousins. Life in the country is new and strange, and Ruby has never felt like such an outsider. Thankfully, she has her much-loved dog, Baxter, for company. But, when he gets up to mischief, everything goes horribly wrong.

It's 1931 and Kettle Farm is starting to feel like home for Ruby. But, she is still desperately worried about her dad. He hasn't written for weeks and nobody knows where he is. Ruby wonders if Dad will ever come back to them. When nobody will give Ruby any answers, she sets out to find him herself.

It's 1931.and Ruby is settling into life at her new school in the country. When a desperately poor family moves to the area, no-one wants to be friends with them. Ruby will have to choose sides and she has already made one enemy at school, Doris Spinks. Ruby wants to do what she believes is right. And she wonders what Doris knows about Ruby's beloved dad who is missing.

It's 1849 and Nellie O'Neill is arriving in South Australia on a ship bringing orphan girls from Irish workhouses. Nellie and her best friend, Mary, have left the famine in Ireland far behind and are full of hopes and dreams about getting a new job, and a new future. Nellie longs to learn to read, to be part of a family once more, and to never be hungry again.

It's 1849 and Nellie and her best friend, Mary, are starting new lives as kitchen maids in a grand Adelaide house. But Nellie's desire to live out her dreams soon leads to a battle with the spiteful cook, Bessie Rudge. Nellie must try to keep her temper and avoid being thrown out to beg on the streets. And she doesn't know why Mary is acting so strangely.

It's 1850 and Nellie is returning to Adelaide after searching for the Thompson family at the Burra. She's keen to get back to her best friend, Mary, who is ill in hospital. But she's in for a terrible shock. Even Nellie begins to feel that all is lost and that she might never achieve her dreams. Will her spirit be crushed, or can she turn her fate around?

A star ballerina doesn't want to wear glasses with her tutu or dance with the only boy in ballet class who is new and who has become the teacher's favourite.

Be an eyewitness to the daring and danger-filled adventures of explorers who risked all to set out across oceans, ice and space.

Michelle, alias Chellie, (Chelonia is the scientific name for the green turtle), lives with her parents on a remote island off the coast of Queensland. When a cherished loggerhead turtle dies after being choked by a carelessly discarded fishing line, Chellie sets out on a clean-up campaign, using some very effective letter writing and emailing.

When Shane's dad loses his job, everything begins to change.

On ANZAC Day in Australia, people of all ages and nationalities gather at war memorials for the dawn service and line city streets to watch the march. This national day of mourning and commemoration honours the men and women who returned from war, and those who did not.

Two children listen to their mother's memories of wartime.

In words and pictures, Yalata and Oak Valley community members, with author Christobel Mattingley, describe what happened in the Maralinga Tjarutja lands of South Australia, before the bombs and after.

Set in the wilds of Scotland, this story follows the adventures of Mijbil, an adorable and mischievous otter.

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.

My name is Harry Riddles and I live with my parents, my evil sister and my twin baby brothers in Cornwall. But, my dad has this crazy idea to take us sailing round the world. I guess swimming with dolphins, learning to scuba dive and climbing volcanoes could be pretty cool. But, I want to win the school Battle of the Bands competition and get Jess to go out with me. I can't do that if I'm stuck on a boat in the middle of the ocean.

Ok, here's the deal. My school is running out of money and might even have to close, but then my friend Jessica told everyone I could raise the mega-bucks and keep it open! But Ed Bigstock was like, "Harry's just a dumb gamer! The only thing he knows how to save is his last score!". But Bigstock's the real doughnut here, and I'll show him and everybody else- right after I finish playing (and slaying) at the new World of Zombies Run! game.

Ten-year-old Harry has an older sister who is a constant source of irritation and a father who is a film writer, currently in a slump, so finances are extremely tight. To add to this, Jessica is the new girl at school to whom he is too shy to speak and online bullies in has favourite game. Harry's claim to fame is his computer gaming and his love of Zombies, which he decides to combine and make an animated movie.

I live with my mum, my dad and my evil sister, Charlotte. My mum is having twins so either me or Charlotte will lose our bedroom. Dad's moaning that I should do more sport and not be just a gamer. I've joined the school football team although if we win anything it will be a miracle. I've written to some football stars to see if they can help and to a bunch of people who might take Charlotte off our hands.

When he is packed off on a school trip for half term, Harry is less than thrilled. He had planned to spend his holidays shooting zombies, not kayaking, abseiling and perfecting his archery skills. Even worse than all the outdoor activities, Harry has been put in a dorm with his arch enemy, Ed Bigstock. And, if Ed finds out that Harry is afraid of the dark, he will have a whole lot more to deal with.

Time travel and adventure intersect in this initial volume of the trilogy of the same name.

Prepare to be amazed. Fascinating and fabulous facts about birds. Marvel at bird's bizarre behaviours. Delight in their diversity and enjoy their incredible personalities in this loving homage to all things avian. Bird brains may be small, but they are dense. Some birds have as many neurons as small primates. Some birds have even been observed making and using tools. Read this book to learn lots of facts about birds in a fun way.

The story of The Sleeping Beauty spills over with fairies and princes, passion and despair, magnificence and splendour, and the ballet version of this classic tale is the most romantic and spectacular of all.

The School Ship Tobermory and its brave young crew are journeying to Australia to participate the prestigious Tall Ships race. Along the way, the crew will have to face a series of perilous challenges, including water shortages, crocodile attacks and scuba-diving catastrophes. Will the crew be able to win the race in the face of such adversity?

Tells of Aden Ridgeway's childhood, schooling and eventual rise to become a prominent Australian politician.

Anthony Mundine's biography shows how he wanted to follow in his sporting father's footsteps.

Any five titles read from this series can be included as official Challenge books; up to five more titles can be included as your personal choice books. To see the individual book titles and their PRC ID numbers, go to the Series lists on the Booklists page, on the website. Or, you can search for a series name or the individual titles by using the Search function on the top of the screen.

Cathy Freeman's early career as a schoolgirl athlete and a Commonwealth Games representative for Australia.

Christine Anu's life begins in the Torres Strait Islands and leads to her rise in the world of music.

Tells of Deborah's childhood, schooling and rise to become one of Australia's finest actors.

A biography that traces the life of one of the most well known Aboriginal performers on television.

A brief biography on Leah Purcell's childhood and rise to become a well-known Australian actor.

A former Australian of the Year, Mandawuy Yunupingu, leads the band, Yothu Yindi.

Michael O'Loughlin takes us on a guided tour of the Sydney Swans. Interesting information about the team, the game and about Michael. Exciting pages and great sports photography increase the impact of the text.

The first Aboriginal Olympic gold medallist, Nova Peris Kneebone's rise to fame is the subject of this book.

A brief biography on Patrick Johnson's childhood and sprinting career.

One of Australia's leading singers and songwriters, Troy Cassar-Daley began his career when he was only thirteen years old.

Imagine the world's population as 100 people: what would it look like? There are almost 8 billion humans living on Earth, but it's tricky to picture so many people! So instead, let's imagine the whole planet is a village where 100 people live -- each person representing around 80 million people in the real world. So what does our global village of 100 people look like? Are they all grown-ups? Are there more males or females? How many have black hair or blue eyes? What languages do they speak? Who can read and write? How many have access to the internet or have enough food to eat? Does everyone have access to electricity or clean water? Big ideas are broken into bitesize chunks through clever illustration and graphic design. If we focus on just 100 people, it's easier to see the things we have in common, and the things that make us different. So come and meet the people in our global village, and think about the big questions that affect us all!

Located in China in the period of the Mongols, this story follows Haoyou's intrepid adventures across oceans and the skies.

A retelling of these fantastic classic tales.

The former lost boys of Peter Pan's Neverland now lead normal adult lives but are plagued by realistic dreams. In this gripping official sequel, they return to find Peter Pan and to seek some answers.

Well-organised under clear headings and well-presented information about ancient Australia with contents, websites, a glossary and ideas for related things to do.

Well-organised under clear headings and well-presented information on some of the unique and impressive landforms that can be found in Australia with contents, websites, a glossary and ideas for related things to do.

Build fun robotics projects with common household items and old toys. The projects introduce you to core robotics concepts while keeping tasks simple and easy to follow. Design and build a self-propelled vehicle, hack an old remote control car to create a motorised robot, and use simple commands to build and program a virtual robot.

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 their father disappears, twins Will and Annalie set out on a perilous sea voyage to find him. They put their faith in a motley crew of runaways and a small sailing boat, the Sunfish. In a world transformed by a catastrophic flood, their ingenuity and friendships will be tested. Their biggest threat comes from the Admiralty, the all-powerful navy that rules the oceans. They're supposed to be the good guys but the deeper the Sunfish voyages into the Moon Islands, the more Will and Annalie realise that nothing is what seems.

The gang is back on the Sunfish searching for their lost father in a world devastated by climate change and greatly risen sea levels. The only clue they have is a coded list he left behind before he disappeared that names four scientists he was working on a top-secret project with. But will the crew of the Sunfish be able to decipher the clues and track down the scientists before their arch enemy does? And now, in the wake of a huge storm, to ever find the missing Spinner they will have to overcome their fears, fix their ship and escape the capture of some greedy pirates, and that is just to begin with.

The final chapter in the Quest for the Sunfish trilogy. Still on the trail of their missing father Spinner, the friends of the Sunfish are desperately trying to catch up with him before the next inevitable pirate attack hits. But with the deadly and vast outer ocean between them and their fleeing dad and their old nemesis Beckett hot on their heels again the crew's adventure is anything but over. The most perilous adventure the Sunfish and its crew have ever faced.

When you're ready to add coding to your creativity toolbox, this book introduces you to simple coding concepts that allow you to create a computer game, simulation and design tool.

If you love tinkering then you'll have fun with these easy-to-complete projects, designed to broaden your understanding of basic engineering principles, challenge your problem-solving skills and sharpen your creativity.

A dramatic introduction to Ernest Shackleton's Trans-Atlantic expedition which was brought to a chilling halt when his ship, Endurance, was gripped by the Weddell ice pack and he, and his crew, had to face appalling conditions.

Stuff happens sometimes. For Harry it happened in art class. All Harry wants is to fly through school under the radar. He's decided that being good at something means attention and, in Harry's case, that attention is more than unwanted. During an excursion to an art gallery, Harry is really unenthusiastic and bored. That is, until he sees a certain painting.

All you have you ever wanted to know about the Ancient Egyptians, from how they ate to how they made their mummies. This book is packed with surprising facts and amazing pictures of Ancient Egypt.

This book contains a vast amount of information about the environment and life in Antarctica.

The journey of a curlew in its migration from Siberia to Australia and a journey of a child from silence to speech.

The story of a lie that gets out of control. Nancy is worried. She's told her teacher she has something that she doesn't, and now Miss Susan wants her to bring it in to show the class.

When Jinx accidentally smashes her next door neighbour's python tank with a misplaced totem tennis ball and is expected to replace it, she needs to make some cash fast. No slow and steady job for Jinx, but all her get rich quick schemes are going awry.

Cat seems to be the only one to be able to understand, calm, and even find her lilttle brother Chicken when he is having a meltdown. Since the death of their father, Cat takes on the role of a parent more and more as her mother spends more time at work. When a job opportunity arises for their mum, Cat and Chicken find themselves spending the summer with grandparents they've never met on an island they have never visited before. It might be terribly awkward or it might be a chance to come together as a family.

A picture book that tells of Rose, a little girl living in a small German town during the war, who sees trucks going to a place outside of town and wants to find out more.

What hidden worlds lie beneath your feet? Or in the deepest parts of the ocean, where not even sunlight can reach? Come on a journey to meet glowing deep-sea creatures, zombie-making fungi and the trillions of tiny workers that live inside your own body. But be warned, things can get a little strange in the deep.

Gemma watches her dad as he sits alone in his tangled garden. She doesn't understand why he seems so sad. Gemma's dad is experiencing depression and Gemma wonders what she might be able to do to help him.

Nipper only wants to be one thing, a lifesaver. In his world, they're larger than life, walking, talking heroes. Nipper's too young but he starts to train in secret, challenging himself in the Bondi surf. But, his secret comes to light one hot Sunday in 1938, a day that has become infamous in Australia's history. Based on a true story.

Eva Fischer has moved from Sydney to Cabramurra, the highest town in Australia. She is surrounded by people of every nationality, with different languages, food and customs, who have come to work on the Snowy Mountains Scheme.

Saxten must seek out Coravel, the fearful king of the beasts, and seek his help in destroying Severo. But if Saxton wants Coravel's help he must be prepared to make a huge sacrifice.

Ferdor, a magician, has been hired to find Saxten and trap him, using his friend Lily as bait. But he has not counted on the loyalty of Dargo, the only wolf among all the creatures of the forest who is deaf to Severo's treachery.

A painting in Saxten's house unsettles him, making him feel watched. He is forced to flee through the painting into another world, the kingdom of Drumminor, where evil is everywhere and he is the only possible saviour.

Saxten is on a quest to stop the evil Severo from taking over the kingdom. Saxten confronts his enemy, Severo, in his forest stronghold.

Griff works in a circus and has a unique ability to hear the thoughts of others, without their knowledge. When the greedy circus master discovers his talent, Griff escapes, taking Tess and her collection of magical creatures. On the run, Griff hears a cry for help from a mysterious source he calls the Whisperer.

Set up a swap club with your friends, plant an edible garden, turn-off appliances, use both sides of the paper, cut-down on packaging organise or a rubbish-free day at school. True Green Kids is full of 100 fun, easy and practical things kids can do to become a green change agent at home, at school and in the community.

Nothing is more important than slaying a dragon.It will make Prince Caden's father proud, and grant him the title of Elite Paladin like his seven older brothers. But there is one big thing standing in Caden's way: he has been mysteriously transported from his home in the Great Winterlands of Razzon to Asheville, North Carolina-a land with no magic and no dragons. Or so he thinks. But what if Caden's destiny isn't to slay a dragon after all?

Do you know springtime in Tokyo is cherry blossom season? Or that on the longest day of summer in Stockholm the sun stays up for 18 hours? Seasons divide the year and bring about changes in the world around us. Different seasons bring warm or cool weather; snow or extreme heat; wet, windy weeks or dry, dusty days; and even big weather events like super storms and twisting tornadoes. Throughout history people have welcomed new seasons with important rituals. Plenty of these traditions continue today, as the change in weather brings different occasions to celebrate and activities to enjoy all year round in many of the world's cities. Discover what different seasons look like in cities all around the world.

A delightful adventure fantasy set in rural Australia which follows 13 year old Carla on a journey to find her estranged father who she has never met. The story is full of mythical creatures who Carla meets along the way and the more creatures she meets the more questions she has about her past.

I am Teddy. This is my scrap book. It's about me growing up from a tiny puppy, with a boofy head and big, brown, melty eyes, to a big black labrador, weighing forty kilos, and still with a boofy head and big, brown, melty eyes. This is me, Teddy.

When the Newton Community Pool is closed until further notice, Nathan and his mates are unimpressed. The alternative, the BayView Leisure Centre, might be modern and flashy, but it is steamy, crowded and no fun. But, Nathan has an idea that is so brilliant in its simplicity. They can dig themselves a pool in the backyard.

Nathan Foley wants more than just a participation award, he wants to be in the book of world records. His hairbrain attempts to break a world record with his two, less than helpful friends, Ronnie and Weasel, are more likely to result in his death by misadventure than great recognition.

When Cassie and Liam start swimming at the lake, neither of them realises the dark secrets that lie beneath. As summer heats up, the water level gets lower and lower, and a shocking truth is slowly uncovered.

From the masterful pen of multi-award-winning Meg McKinlay and dynamic new illustrator Andrew Frazer, Drawn Onward explores shifting perspectives and the inner voice. The text is a palindrome that takes readers from the glass half empty - 'There is no light on the horizon and it is foolish to think you can change anything at all' - to the glass half full- 'You can change anything at all. It is foolish to think there is no light on the horizon.'

One hundred years ago, AFL football was quite different. Footy grounds were rough and muddy, and the game was characterised by long, passing kicks. Jumpers were canvas cotton vests, laced up the centre, and shorts were long and worn with long socks. Caps and hats were often worn. These were tough times of war and depression. But, from the very beginning, Collingwood Football Club wanted to win.

It's 1935 and Tom is off with Grandpa to watch his favourite team at footy training. As they walk through the gates of Victoria Park, his grandfather removes his black and white Collingwood scarf and gives it to Tom. This scarf has been passed down through generations of Collingwood supporters.

A drover's life is one of hardship and daring, but also one of mateship and adventure. This tells the story of Edna Jessop who was one of the few female drovers who worked at this dusty and dangerous job.

On a stormy night off the coast of southern Australia, a ship transporting a cargo of exotic animals tosses and turns in enormous seas. Rhino senses they are in grave danger... Not far away, ten-year-old Evie and her grandfather shelter in their crumbling, once-grand old home. They know too well how deadly storms can be. When all is calm, Evie treks over the dunes to the sea and makes a discovery that will change her life, and Rhino's, forever. Will the tragedies of their pasts finally be put to rest?

Infinity Drake, also known as Finn, is on holiday with his mad scientist uncle when they are summoned. Scarlatti, a lethal bio-weapon, has been released, with terrible consequences for mankind. Uncle Al must shrink a military team to track down and kill the beast. When Finn gets shrunk, he and three soldiers begin a desperate race to destroy the beast that's very angry and many times their size.

After being abandoned by their thespian parents, Whimsy and Woe Mordaunt are left in the care of their awful Aunt Apoline. Forced to work in Apoline's boarding house, slaving at the beck and call of outlandish guests and sharpening the thorns of every plant in the poisonous garden, Whimsy and Woe lose all hope that their parents will ever return. Until one day, quite by accident, the siblings stumble upon a clue that sets them on an adventurous path to finding freedom and hopefully their parents.

In the final act of this dramatic search for their parents, Whimsy and Woe Mordaunt must escape villainous thieves, travel beneath a desert in an untested machine of an ingenious inventor, climb the Mountainous Mountains and perform a death-defying trapeze act in the Big Top of Benton Brothers Circus... all before going undercover at the annual Thespian Society Masquerade Ball. Can they stop the Purple Puppeteer's evil plan in time to rescue their parents? Or will the Purple Puppeteer pull their family's strings forever?

Twelve year old Vinnie has escaped from his foster mother and her tough rules and expectations. He has found a friend with whom he can share dreams and music. Then, war begins and Vinnie is evacuated from the London bombs. All he has left of his old life is his harmonica. On the train, Vinnie meets three other evacuee children and when they arrive in the small country town of Netterfold, their own war begins.

Amidst the ruins of the ancient city of Ephesus, Captain Neptune Bone has unearthed an incredible relic which promises him supernatural powers.

A mysterious man inexplicably disappears mid-flight on the way to Shanghai. The strange object he thrusts into the flight attendant's hand leads Jocelyn Osgood, Cairo Jim and Joan Twilight on a search for a priceless, Chinese antiquity.

While stopping over in Norway, Joan Twilight buys a rusty old hammer she thinks will interest her friend Jocelyn Osgood. They seek out Professor Snerdforst and discover the hammer is more than a dusty relic.

Cairo Jim and his friends, including Valkyrian Airways flight attendant Jocelyn Osgood, must uncover yet another mystery of history when they become embroiled in the shooting of an Indian film.

A seemingly ordinary vase is stolen from the Greek Archaeological Museum by a figure swathed in mystery. But the vase, an ancient alabastron, holds a potent force that must not be allowed to escape.

The Astragals of Angkor, strange ancient carvings from Cambodia, are discovered in the Vaults of Abandonment, deep below the Old Relics Society in Cairo. Cairo Jim, that well-known archaeologist and little-known poet, must find out where they came from and why they are shown in such outrageous positions.

Jim and his faithful companions, Doris and Brenda, go underground to stop Neptune Bone and Desdemona the Parrot from finding the lost power of Knoss. They search for them in the labyrinth but discover more than they could predict.

The kidnapping of the entire Turkish women's Olympic Tent Erection Team sparks an adventure which includes archaeological investigations by Cairo Jim and his off-beat team.

Cairo Jim must solve the riddle of the sudden and unexplained disappearance of paintings of the legendary quetzal queen. The paintings are not the only thing to disappear, so has Fifi Glusac, contortionist and harmonica player.

A very exciting hieroglyphics discovery, in the Temple of Hathor at Dendara, sends Cairo Jim and friends off in pursuit of the secret of turning ordinary metals into gold.

When Cairo Jim, and his friends make the find of the century, a new enemy on the scene sets out to discredit Jim and destroy his hard-won reputation

Cairo Jim and his friends set out to stop Captain Neptune F Bone in his greedy pursuit to dominate the world's total gold resources, and to save King Midas's daughter.

When Captain Neptune Bone disappears in the Red Sea while diving for a lost sarcophagus of a Pharaoh, Cairo Jim is called in to try and help find him in the dark and watery depths.

Cairo Jim and his friends are sent to Rome to get to the bottom of an act of felony when a priceless and mysterious artefact, the Imperishable Bauble, is discovered to be missing.

Jocelyn Osgood, friend of Cairo Jim, becomes embroiled in the theft of a priceless, royal tiara. She is thrown into a world of chaos and mystery in Zarundi, Africa.

In the dusty ruins of the ancient House of the Perfumer at Pompeii, astonishing discoveries are taking place. Long forgotten perfumes are being reinvented. But, when one of these whiffs of wonderment, believed to have legendary hypnotic powers, goes missing, it is up to that well-known archaeologist, Cairo Jim, and his friends to try and stop a rush of evil.

Cairo Jim is in the Valley of the Kings, Egypt, on the hunt for the lost tomb of the Pharaoh Martenarten. The treacherous and devious Captain Neptune Bone is after the same priceless treasure.

Cairo Jim, archaeologist and failed poet, discovers he is not the only one on the dangerour trail to ChaCha Muchos, a mysterious city deep in dark Peru.

Any five titles read from this series can be included as official Challenge books; up to five more titles can be included as your personal choice books. To see the individual book titles and their PRC ID numbers, go to the Series lists on the Booklists page, on the website. Or, you can search for a series name or the individual titles by using the Search function on the top of the screen.

Conjuring is in Phyllis Wong's veins, passed down from her great-grandfather who was the world's most brilliant magician. When a series of robberies takes place in the city, Phyllis realises there is more to the crimes than meets the eye. It may be baffling her friend Chief Inspector Inglis but Phyllis is determined to find out more. She must find out who the thief is, what he wants and how he is achieving the impossible.

When Phyllis Wong's friend Clement finds a seemingly ordinary old movie poster in an antique shop, little does Phyllis know that the discovery will fling her on a journey into the past ... a journey that will lead the brilliant young magician and clever sleuth to a forgotten mystery surrounding one of the most famous stories ever written!

When a series of strange and unexpected incidents plunge her world into chaos, Phyllis Wong, brilliant magician and clever sleuth, is faced with danger, uncertainty and an unremembered scientific theory that threatens everything she knows and trusts. Phyllis must try to solve the mystery of these weird happenings, using her magic to defeat the doom of the gloom.

Someone has sold a number of valuable first editions of Shakespeare's plays at the auction house and Chief Inspector Inglis suspects foul play. These rare First Folios are in mint condition, where on earth could they have come from. Has a crime been committed. But when a famously lost Shakespearean play is scheduled to be auctioned, Phyllis suspects villainy is seeping into today from the seventeenth century.

When Phyllis Wong--that brilliant young magician and clever sleuth--happens upon a mystery from the past that has proved unsolvable, she knows she has to try to get to the bottom of it. More than sixty years ago an astonishing emerald necklace owned by the famous pianist Isabella Beaufort seemingly vanished off the face of the earth! Ever since, the disappearance has stumped the police, detectives and those associated with the missing priceless jewels. How did the prized Flurtis Emeralds vanish? Where are they today? Is there any way they can be traced, after so many cobwebs have covered the case? Another mysterious intrigue right up the alleyway of our favourite conjuring Transiter!

Phyllis Wong's great grandfather is on a quest to track down one of history's greatest magicians. But, no one knows if he even exists. To find the answer, Phyllis and her great grandfather will have to transit across thousands of miles and hundreds of years. But, a sinister figure haunts their every step.

Any five titles read from this series can be included as official Challenge books; up to five more titles can be included as your personal choice books. To see the individual book titles and their PRC ID numbers, go to the Series lists on the Booklists page, on the website. Or, you can search for a series name or the individual titles by using the Search function on the top of the screen.

Royal Blue is a royal racing pigeon from a long line of champions. Every morning he wakes and spends the day training, but there's a war growing and things are changing. One day the King himself comes to the loft and selects Blue for a special assignment. Blue needs to find the courage to leave his secure home to be a war pigeon and face dangers he never could have imagined, and will he survive to return to his family?

Roger and his friend, Lucy, tour the clubs as a ventriloquist act and try to win the national quiz show, Pick the Porky.

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.

Roger Bacon is a piglet who talks, walks and sings and Lucy is facing lots of trouble raising him. Like his father, Francis, Roger is chatty and curious, but he is also a piglet with ambition. Will Lucy manage to keep Roger off the airwaves and out of the clutches of the Genius Gene Corporation?

Francis Bacon is an intelligent, talking pig among intelligent, talking pigs.

Roger Bacon is not only a talking pig, he is the world's first pig reporter. Roger goes in search of his first scoop, the thylacine or Tasmanian Tiger, long thought extinct. Roger uncovers a dangerous secret.

Contemporary and humorous, this story is dotted with snippets of Japanese language and culture, as Hannah and her ghost friend attempt to solve an ancient riddle.

An aboriginal story that tells of Enora's fascination with the coloured birds of the forest.

After their mission in London, Nomad, Riff, Phoenix and Orbit are back at HELIX, training to master their magic. But things have changed. Nomad's secret is out. Her peers know she is a Witness; a sorcerer with the rare ability to read others' magic. This causes ripples at HQ, especially when it means that Steel, the most popular cadet in her class, is no longer the centre of attention. But there are greater threats than new rivals. When the cadets are sent to New Zealand to investigate a top-secret case, they find themselves in more danger than they bargained for. With no one to trust and time running out, it's a race to stop the Inductors before they have enough power to destroy HELIX for good.

Spies. Secrets. Sorcery. Natalie Palladino was a normal fifteen-year-old, at a normal school, about to face a normal maths test. Now her codename is Nomad, and she's training to become a secret agent for HELIX. No one can know that sorcery exists. No one can know that HELIX protects humanity from the Inductors. And no one can know that Nomad is a Witness, with a dangerous magical gift. The Inductors are hunting her. If they find her, they will kill her. But there's a traitor inside HELIX, and only a Witness can identify them. The problem is, Nomad hasn't mastered her powers. She can't levitate, fight or wield magic like her fellow recruits. If she's the only hope to stop a sorcerous bomb being detonated, the world is in trouble. The eleventh hour is coming . . .

When the Fallen Star struck, some dinosaurs survived, but grew alert. They learnt to speak. To dream. To wage war. As the last dinosaur kingdoms continue to fight, Eleri, the disgraced son of a prince, is banished to the merciless Deadlands for saving an enemy soldier. To survive the dangers of the scorched desert he joins a herd of other young exile. But when Eleri and his fellow misfits discover the horrific truth behind the war, the unlikely heroes must do all they can to save their kingdom from a secret plot that could destroy them all.

Loaded with tricks, riddles, magic and mayhem this race-against-time adventure is set in Melbourne in 1871. Twelve-year-old Billy Pyke has a talent for sorting things out, whether it's his chaotic family home or the busy book stall at Paddy's Market, where he works for Mr Cole. When his new friend Kezia warns him of a sinister magician called the Obscurosmith, Billy is shocked by her stories of magical deals gone horribly wrong. Then, on the night of the fire, Billy realises that if the Obscurosmith is to be stopped, he'll have to do it himself. The duel begins but, even with Kezia help, will Billy's magic be enough?

With Alexandra the Dowager Governess seemingly defeated and Mac safely returned home, Prue still cannot settle and finds herself drawn back to Wildwood, her life in danger as well as the very existence of the Wildwood communities, with divisions and politics threatening to destroy the harmony Prue's initial presence brought. Rebellion is also close at hand just outside the Impassable Wilderness with industrial tycoons causing havoc on the landscape and their orphan workforce.

It is an ordinary Tuesday morning in April when bored, lonely Charlie Fisher witnesses something incredible. Right before his eyes, in a busy square in Marseille, a group of pickpockets pulls off an amazing robbery. As the young bandits appear to melt into the crowd, Charlie realizes with a start that he himself was one of their marks. Yet Charlie is less alarmed than intrigued. This is the most thrilling thing that's happened to him since he came to France with his father, an American diplomat. So instead of reporting the thieves, Charlie defends one of their cannons, Amir, to the police, under one condition- he teach Charlie the tricks of the trade.

Life is ordinary for twelve year old Prue McKeel. That is, until her brother is abducted by crows and taken to the Impassable Wilderness, a dense forest where no-one's ever gone in, or at least returned to tell of it. Prue and her friend, Curtis, uncover a secret world, full of warring creatures, peaceable mystics and powerful figures with the darkest intentions. What begins as a rescue mission becomes something much greater.

The fate of Wildwood hangs in the balance with the reawakening of Alexandra the Dowager Governess. It will take the combined efforts of an orphan rebellion, two toymakers, what remains of the bandit team and a vast array of birds and animals to prevent total annihilation.

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.

Essie likes facts, and the fact is, she's left her love of horses behind her. She doesn't want a new horse and she certainly doesn't need one. Not with the price she would have to pay. That is a line she just won't cross. Except the universe has other ideas and there is a pony that needs her. This pony makes Essie face her past and her future. For the sake of the pony she must face difficult questions. In searching for answers she must decide if she can forgive the past.

An informative guide to the hows and whys of keeping fit, and having fun on the way. Find out why keeping fit is good for you, how to choose the appropriate exercise regime and how to stay healthy in day-to-day life.

Find out what has gone wrong with the planet, what needs to be done, and how every little bit helps to solve the problem of climate change and pollution. Discover how you can save energy, what a carbon footprint is and lots more about the human impact on our planet.

Mia rescues a dirrarn black cockatoo, and faces her biggest challenge yet when she chooses to care for the bird, knowing it is her totem animal. Mia feels powerless to change the things she sees around her, until she explores the fragile connections of family and culture and discovers her own inner strength.

Spikes on the bottom boots, my favourite colour boots, making me too deadly. Can the shoes on your feet really make you jump higher? Walk taller? Dream bigger? A joyous, empowering story about finding confidence within yourself, boots or no boots,

Sidney Nolan is one of Australia's most admired and recognised visual artists. This is the story of how he developed his iconic Ned Kelly series of paintings, brought modernist art to Australia and took Australian art to an admiring international audience.

Anton might only be little in stature but he has a great talent. By the time he reaches high school, Anton has heard all the size jokes. His resourcefulness and music save the day and the Rock Eisteddfod.

Augustin is a poor boy who lives in a barn. Celine is a rich girl who lives in a mighty palace. They are both adventurous. Their world's collide during a one of their daring adventures which lands them in a world of terrible trouble and dangerous secrets. David Metzenthen has combined fact with fiction to create a story of wonder, mystery and excitement.

Matt Brock and his friend write a message on a banana which is to be shipped out from his dad's plantation. What a surprise when they receive a reply.

George Parker and Chase Landon-Bond may attend the same Boarding School but there the similarity ends. George is scientific, cautious and a pyjama wearing nerd. Chase is popular, rich, carefree and impulsive. After his latest haircut goes seriously wrong, George sparks interest from the unlikely Chase. He sees George's potential in helping him complete a rescue mission. George doubts his abilities to help Chase but finds himself, time and again, getting the two of them out of tricky situations.

Shiny-boy Diamond and his mate, Pod, have been given an old Canadian canoe, the Wolverine. They decide to canoe from Sockby all the way down to the sea but didn't count on revolting rubbish traps, killer rapids, freaky whirlpools and a container ship ten storeys high.

Pete 'Pod' Podlewski with the bad haircut and his mate, 'Shiny-Boy' Diamond from the wrong side of the tracks, ride their illegal mini-bikes to the end of the disused railway line in search of adventure and girls. Some strong language in context.

Shiny boy and Pod, spend a lot of time at the pool talking, dreaming, making funny remarks to each other about other people who use the pool and trying to impress girls. They often get into trouble with the pool boss for doing silly things.

Tiff Porter lives in a tiny, mountain town. She loves trout fishing and her best friend, Cass. As winter approaches and the seasons change, so life will change for Tiff. A challenging read involving a family break-up with some strong language.

The Seaport Junior Sharks just can't win a game. Their coach is in trouble, their footy ground is unsafe due to lack of rain and the team needs more players. They are in danger of ceasing to exist but the Sharks never give up.

Kiko and Nattie are flies whose job it is to clean up after humans. When their house is occupied by Mrs Spick who has dangerous amounts of fly spray, they become flies with a mission.

When Joe is dragged into a deadly plot by rebellious convicts at the Castle Hill prison farm, he quickly realises it does not pay to be their enemy. He has been quietly working out his sentence as a shepherd boy and does not want to draw any additional attention. However, Joe eventually finds himself amidst a desperate bid for freedom in the first convict uprising against the colony of New South Wales.

Mary Beckwith has been sent to the penal colony at Port Jackson, transported with her mother, having stolen some fabric. She describes the hardships endured as well as the growth of the settlement and meeting the indigenous inhabitants. Her story is unlike most others as she joins Nicolas Baudin, the French scientific explorer, as he explores New Holland's coastline in direct competition with Matthew Flinders.

Discover why some duck eggs are brown, or why amphibians, fish and reptiles have so many babies. From the macabre caterpillar wasp to the caring kangaroo, the complexities of animal kingdom life cycles are explored in a colourful, humorous graphic novel.

If you have ever wondered what a cell is, or how they make life, this book will explain it all. Go on a journey of discovery with humorous, colourful cartoon characters, to learn what cytoplasm, vacuoles, and chromosomes are, and how they form part of you.

Learning is tons of fun when you mix comic characters with science. If you have ever wondered what sound is and how we hear it, then this book will entertain and educate you. Find out why some sounds are soft and some are loud, how sound travels and why dogs can hear a whistle that you can't.

As well as being a skater, Niki is a huge gamer and plays with a team in an online eSports league. The other girl geeks don't know much about gaming but Niki's enthusiasm is contagious! When the country's biggest eSports event opens up a junior comp, Niki can't wait to play. She signs up and meets her online friends for the first time - they're all boys and are shocked to discover she's a girl! An unexpected event occurs, which sees Niki in danger of not being able to play in the tournament. Will her girl gang come to the rescue and turn this game from off to on?

Hamsa's teacher has announced that their class will be doing their very own hackathon. A hack-a-what? thinks Hamsa. She doesn't know anything about tech or coding! Things get worse as Hamsa is split up from her best friends and put with Eve, the new girl, shy and studious Maggie and skateboarder Niki. Ugh - they're destined to fail! The girls need an idea - and fast. Can Hamsa and her team come up with the goods or will things fall apart as she plays it too cool for school?

Meet Olive Black... ten year old superstar. Her latest movie, Mammoth Mistake, has just been released and she is riding the rollercoaster of fame and school. When she gets caught up with the biggest bully in showbiz, everything goes pear-shaped. Olive can't understand how her relationship with her best friend could go so wrong or why she can't fix things just like in the movies.

Find out what fascinating things are trapped in the coloured squares that we stick on the corners of envelopes. Includes a timeline of events coinciding with stamp issues.

Two elders share the stories and knowledge of food and medicine from Jarlmadangah Burru and the Nyikina people who live there.

Using the very latest information and in full colour, Dr Millard takes us through some of the mysteries surrounding the life and death of ancient pharaohs. King Tutankhamen and others are featured in this up-to-date look at ancient Egypt.

Since his arrival at the Kingdom of Silk, Perry Angel has learned a lot about love. Apart from dressing up as Superman, Perry's favourite thing is drawing. But, then, something happens and Perrry's friends are worried he might never draw again. Mr Kadri from the Colour Patch Cafe understands that, sometimes, there are no words to describe feelings and announces a new category in the annual art exhibition.

Grandpapa's eyes shine brightly when he remembers the beauty of the world. Now they all live underground and Peterboy wants to find something to bring the light back and keep it there. What he finds is an injured duck.

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.

Layla is Griffin's best friend and he is determined to help Layla with her problem. She doesn't have a special person to take to senior citizen's day at school. The search for a suitable person leads to a new friendship.

Griffin Silk lives in a loving home with his father, many colourful sisters and his grandmother, Nell. Until now, all the children have had home schooling but, because his mother has gone away, as has his baby sister, Griffin must attend the local school. Griffin finds school challenging until he meets Princess Layla, who helps him discover the courage to share his secret.

One night, while listening to Nell play the beautiful Tennessee Waltz, Perry thinks of the perfect way to bring his two favourite people together: he wants to put on a dance - a proper one with petticoats and posies and a real band. Perry shares his idea with his sisters, and before long the dance turns into a wonderful winter festival. But when something happens to Nell, will Perry's wish come true?

It has taken Perry Angel almost seven years to find the place where he belongs. He arrives at the Kingdom of Silk one day on the 10.30 express, carrying only a small and shabby suitcase embossed with five golden letters. Perry won't let go of his suitcase.

It's almost Christmas time in Cameron's Creek and it's a time for wishes, big and small. Scarlet, the oldest of the Rainbow girls, is not sure if wishes come true.

Everyone knows that Saffron Silk has a talent for pretending to be someone else, but when the firebirds rage inside her head, and it hurts even to breathe, Saffron barely has the energy to be herself.

Once there was a shepherd, a very special coat and hope. A family during World War I.

From the ancient Willandra Lakes, through to colonial buildings, natural sites and the world renowned Sydney Opera House, New South Wales is the proud custodian of some of Australia's most iconic World Heritage Sites. Discover how these sites are managed so that the competing demands of tourists, wilderness and wildlife are all satisfied while still preserving the sites for the future.

Although trees are plants and humans are animals, we have many similar characteristics. This book describes those characteristics, and celebrates some of the magnificent trees that grow on our planet, along with the diversity of life that surrounds them.

Neil Andertol is a hero...Just not in real life. In video games, Neil - or as his online friends know him, ManofNeil - is a superstar. He's just one spot away from the top score on Chameleon, the cool new jet-flying game where the plane supposedly goes invisible at the highest level. But while ManofNeil can take out a whole squadron of enemy planes, regular Neil still gets picked on by the class bully. Until now. When Neil mysteriously wakes up at an undisclosed military base along with eleven other kids, he learns that Chameleon isn't just a game - it's the training simulator for a real fighter jet! Now the Air Force needs their help piloting the jets on a top-secret rescue mission. Can Neil put his gaming skills to the ultimate real-life test? Because this time Neil isn't just playing for points - he's playing to save the world!

Timid Elizabeth and her unusual, fearless friend, Zenobia, arrive at Witheringe House, the old manor where Elizabeth's father and his beloved sister, Tourmaline, lived as children. Peculiar things begin to happen, especially in the forbidden East Wing. Sometimes, the flowers and vines of the wallpaper seem to be alive. A mirror has a surface like the water of a pond and an old book tells a different story after midnight. Zenobia is thrilled by the strangeness but Elizabeth is not so bold. Until she makes a mysterious and terrifying discovery.

Since the war with the republic of birds, magic has been banned and any girl showing signs of magical ability is whisked away to Bleak Steppe, to a life, it is said, of unspeakable horror. When Olga begins to experience strange things, she knows she must keep it hidden from everyone. But when the birds take the thing that is most precious to her, Olga must summon all her courage, and more, to get it back.

Olive and Willow are off on a two week summer camp. They plan to do everything together, but with so many new people and activities, the two girls are pulled in different directions. Willow is not as confident as Olive and relies on her for comfort. Olive wants to try all the things camp has to offer. This puts an enormous strain on their friendship which may not last the summer camp.

Olive is a popular and happy year five girl with lots of friends, but when she finds herself on the outside of several groups formed to enter the school's talent show, she feels resentment and is hurt at being left out. With some good advice from her aunt, she decides she can do an act on her own and finds a new level of confidence in herself.

A rare and delightful collection of Spike Milligan's humour for children that includes 'Best of silly verse for kids', 'Milliganisms' and more.

All you have you ever wanted to know about the animal kingdom, from what makes up a bird and how animals use camouflage to hide. This book is packed with surprising facts and amazing pictures of animals, from mammals to reptiles.

All you have you ever wanted to know about the dinosaurs, from how big was a Argentinosaurus and where would you have to have gone to find a T.rex. This book is packed with surprising facts and amazing pictures of the prehistoric world.

From brainy biologists and clever chemists to magnificent mathematicians and pioneering physicists, discover 100 remarkable scientists who shaped our world.

My name is Julia. This is the story of the summer I spent living in a lighthouse. The summer I almost lost my mum, and found a shark older than trees. Don't worry though, that doesn't spoil the ending ... Julia has followed her mum and dad to live on a remote island for the summer - her dad, for work; her mother, on a determined mission to find the elusive Greenland shark. But when her mother's obsession threatens to submerge them all, Julia finds herself on an adventure with dark depths and a lighthouse full of hope...

The classic tales of Christopher Robin's beloved bear and his pals, Tigger and Eeyore.

Learning how to code can be like learning a foreign language. Follow the simple steps as you work with real code to build your own web robots. Create your robot by writing code that builds your robot's body and structure. Give your bot some style by adding code lines that customise your robot's colour and shape. Get your robot moving by finishing off with code that teaches it how to dance.

David Mitchell gives expert advice on fourteen of the most popular martial arts. Skilful holds to dramatic throws and kicks are featured.

25 step-by-step paper aeroplanes for you to make. Clearly arranged, easy to follow and with lots of colour diagrams, this will be a popular book with kids from 7 years to 77 years.

In the wild and stormy terrain of the Snowy Mountains, a brumby foal has died and through the roar of the flood the mother hears another foal's call for help.

Choopa is a dancer. When he hears the music of the waltz streaming into the cold night air of the high mountains, he dances. Far below, a child's voice called: 'there's a tiny horse dancing on the pass.' the music grew louder again, and Choopa's blue and white legs and body waltzed above the Snowy River. And so the stories begin of the little blue roan foal with the strange, misshapen legs, who dances like an angel. Dandaloo fears for her little foal's safety, and with Son of Storm, Wingilla and Bri Bri, leads him up into the highest mountains, away from the threat of man. But one man, a man who trained Lippizaner horses at the Spanish riding school, will not give up his search for this unique foal who weaves a spell around all who see him dance.

Choopa, the blue-roan dwarf foal is a natural dancer and was trained as a Spanish dancing horse until he escaped and made his way back home to the beautiful snow country. Now Choopa must start fending off increasing attacks from Old Strawberry, the herd leader. Choopa's interest is sparked by rumours of a tiny dwarf filly that is the prize of Old Strawberry's herd. A

Wurring, almost a yearling, and the image of his great sire Winganna, is a golden chestnut with a mane and tail the color of living light of the sun. When Winganna brings a hauntingly beautiful mare and her filly foal to the herd, Wurring is drawn to the tiny filly despite himself. When the beautiful mare dies, only Wurring has the courage to approach the orphan. Where is she from? As she grows, she becomes more and more beautiful, glowing with the beauty of the moon, and it becomes obvious that her dead mother must have been of great value. What happens when an ugly and mean iron grey stallion comes looking for what he has lost? Is Ilinga's and Wurring's love for each other enough for them to overcome the odds?

Lightning, Thowra's second foal out of Golden is two years old, so Thowra takes him south to find a kingdom of his own. With them goes Baringa, Kunama's and Tambo's yearling colt. Despite Lightning's obvious beauty, it is Baringa that wins the heart of the most beautiful filly of Quambat flat, Dawn. Baringa will have to use all of his cunning and all he has been taught to keep Dawn.

Baringa, grandson of the mighty silver brumby, was frantic. The rain fell in heavy sheets, changing the river into a raging torrent. Dawn, his lovely cream filly, had been swept away in the force of the current.

Thowra, the magnificent silver stallion, is captivated by a beautiful filly dancing in the dawn light on the top of a gorge. He knew he must have her, but he would have to fight to make her his own. But he had no idea of the trouble she would bring - or the risk he was taking. The battle for her threatens to destroy them both.

Thowra's speed and courage have always saved him from the men who want to capture him but now the men come on skis, quickly and silently over the mountain range. This time, they know the legendary silver stallion has a daughter, a beautiful, highly prized, sliver brumby, and the brumby hunters are determined to capture her, no matter what it takes.

A ferocious storm cruelly separates the young colt, Tiarri, from his mother and dumps him beside an orphaned dingo pup. Tiarri saves the pup's life from a marauding eagle, and from this battle springs a friendship that defies every law of nature. It is a bizarre friendship between three animals that ordinarily would never associate. Together they roam the magnificent Snowy Mountains and survive repeated attacks from bush animals unsettled by their uncanny alliance. Binding them is the brotherhood of every silver brumby that ever walked the Cascades and the apparition of Thowra, the most wondrous silver stallion of them all ...

Thowra, the magnificent silver stallion, is king of the brumbies. He will defend his herd from the mighty horse, The Brolga, in the most savage of struggles. Thowra also needs his speed and cunning to save the herd from capture by man.

A silver brumby is special... but he will be hunted by may and horse alike, and must be stronger than both... The silver foal embarks on a long and hazardous search to find his father, the legendary silver brumby, Thowra. The colt's life is threatened by other horses who fear him, and man who seeks to capture his free spirit. Will his journey ever end?

Any three titles read from this series can be included as official Challenge books; up to five more titles can be included as your personal choice books. To see the individual book titles and their PRC ID numbers, go to the Series lists on the Booklists page, on the website. Or, you can search for a series name or the individual titles by using the Search function on the top left hand corner of the screen.

The black brumby and the cattledog become friends and both want to escape the men who hunt them ? Socks, the black brumby with four white legs, is a loner until one day he hears the bronze cuckoo whistle and the cattle dog follows him into the bush. They become great friends, the dog Lightning, whose master has died, and the horse. The bronze cuckoo keeps an eye on them when parties of men with whips and dogs come into the area to capture the brumby herds and take them to the sales. A female dingo joins Socks and Lightning and soon there are pups to take care of as well. Although not many men go deep into the Snowy Mountains, the bushwalkers carry strange tales of a black brumby and a family of dogs and dingoes ? The stockmen are always curious about these tales, especially when the brumby and the dog keep eluding them. The confrontation is fierce when it comes and the animals escape ? but for how long?

The spectacular scenery around Lake Mungo, at Willandra Lakes Region in south-west NSW, is described and its problems such as soil erosion are discussed. Accompanied by beautiful black and white photography.

Ollie's dad is missing but Grandma Dangerous is on the case. She has a hot air balloon, thirty packets of biscuits and a pooch with magical powers (she says). But as they sail through the skies, Ollie realises they're no just on a rescue mission. Grandma is on the run.

A Priceless artifact has been stole from Russia- and Grandma Dangerous wants to find it. Nothing will stand in her way. Can Ollie and Grandma return the treasure and get back home, before the Politsiya catch them?

When Grandma Dangerous finds a mysterious amulet, she is sure it contains an ancient Egyptian treasure. Can it save Ollie's hamster from certain death? They must unlock the amulet's secret power, but first they have to break an ancient curse involving a certain dog of destiny...

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.

During the Great Depression, when his father loses his job, Tom Parker sets out to save his family from eviction. He confronts bullies, financial hardship and prejudice but his determination and never-say-die attitude is as strong as his loyalty to his family.

Charlie, Masa and Alf are best mates - loyal and adventurous. They're the Fighting Stingrays. In between school, swimming and fishing on idyllic Thursday Island, they have a ripper time role-playing bombing missions and other war games. But when Japan enters World War II, the Fighting Stingrays are told that one of their own is now the real-life enemy. Drawn into a dangerous game of cat and mouse in the Torres Strait, their friendship and loyalties are tested as the threat of invasion looms closer.

Fourteen-year-old Jacob has won a once-in-a-lifetime chance to appear in a Hollywood movie. But when he misses his flight in Chicago and catches the Greyhound to L.A. he meets Jennifer and the real trouble starts. Jennifer in on the run, carrying a mysterious package, and Jacob soon finds himself her unlikely partner in crime on a wild road trip across the USA. Miles of open road lie ahead of them, but the police, a furious grandmother and a sinister figure known only as 'the Cowboy' are just a few steps behind...

In 1942, four teenagers, trained as Special Operations Agents, are sent deep into Nazi-occupied Norway. Their mission is a dangerous act of sabotage to prevent the Nazis from making the atomic bomb. If they succeed, they must survive for weeks in the frozen wilderness. But, if they fail, Europe faces destruction.

Heracles and Theseus are the subjects of humorous poems.

A humorous anthology of poetry including poems on Odysseus in Greek mythology.

Travel the world without leaving home. Fifty two lavishly illustrated maps detail not only geographical features and political borders but also places of interest, iconic personalities, native animals and plants, local peoples, cultural events, and many more fascinating facts associated with each region. This book is a celebration of the world, from its immense mountains to its tiny insects, and everything in between.

Zack, Sophie, Johnny and Alex have their holiday all planned, they want to learn about card tricks and picking locks at the world famous Magic Circle Club. Suddenly their plans vanish in a puff of smoke when they have to deal with a difficult club president, a stagehand ghost and a crime right under their noses. Join these young magicians as they step inside an adventure that may or may not involve the search for a secret book and a set of impossible crimes.

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.

You're alone in a mysterious new world, full of hidden dangers. You have only minutes to find food and shelter before darkness falls and the monsters come looking for you. Learn how to make a shelter, find resources, craft tools, armour and weapons, and protect yourself from monsters. With tips from Minecraft experts this is the definitive guide to how to survive your first few days in Minecraft.

In Minecraft, you're never alone and the threat of attack is constant. You will learn everything you need to know to defend yourself from hostile mobs, monsters and enemy players. It's packed with tips from Minecraft experts on how to build a fort, craft armour and weapons, set mob traps and defeat your enemies in one-to-one combat.

From theme parks with water slides to entire pirate coves complete with galleons - is there nothing that can't be achieved in Minecraft. Here the experts talk you through amazing constructions which range from awe inspiring cathedrals to wacky inventions like the hilarious animal cannon that catapults cows out to sea.

Experts guide you through all aspects of working with Redstone including mining, smelting, using repeaters, circuit components and circuit designs. This handbook also includes exclusive tips from game creator Notch himself and some of the most extraordinary Redstone creations ever made.

Australia has many venomous, dangerous and scary animals. This book is an adventurous exploration of our most feared wildlife. It is overflowing with visual storytelling, maps and facts about Australian snakes, sharks, spiders, crocodiles, stingrays, mosquitoes, goannas, ticks and more.

Within the rough and ready frontier settlement of Moreton Bay, which later became the city of Brisbane, Toby and his mates roam free, and linger at the fringes of the grown-up world. They are particularly interested in horse racing. But, it's a dangerous world and when Toby decides to take part in a race through the streets, he doesn't realise it will be a matter of life and death.

Jack is fishing when he attracts something much bigger than barramundi. A crocodile has entered the river on his family's property and it's hungry.

Marcel, his cousin, Fergus, and Bea, the half-elf, must travel into the forbidden underground world of Baden Dark on a rescue mission. The compelling conclusion to the Book of lies trilogy takes you on a journey deep into yourself, as Marcel and his friends struggle with the meaning of life and death, and make decisions that involve huge personal sacrifice or vanity as they witness loyalty and betrayal.

Any five titles read from this series can be included as official Challenge books; up to five more titles can be included as your personal choice books. To see the individual book titles and their PRC ID numbers, go to the Series lists on the Booklists page, on the website. Or, you can search for a series name or the individual titles by using the Search function on the top of the screen.

In the dead of night, a boy is delivered to an orphanage in a remote village. Lord Alwyn descends from the tower of the orphanage and begins reading to the unconscious boy from a special book, a mysterious book.

During the Irish potato famine, Bridget's family has been turned out of their home and their only refuge is the workhouse, where living conditions are hard and the food sparse. For Bridget and her sister, Maeve, their one chance is to take a ship to a new country and become Australians. They must survive the journey then face the many challenges that await them in a new, far away land.

The funny and moving sequel to, Swashbuckler. When the principal's prized rose garden is vandalised, Rex and Tony, get the blame. But it is a set-up, and Tony is ""making enquiries"". Rex discovers a dilemma, a new friend and even netball.

Matt Cooper is twelve, and spends his time honing his magic skills and tricks. His great-grandfather, Mattheus, was a magician whose career came to a disastrous end when a trick he performed backfired. What neither Matt nor Mattheus realise is that there's an even older story behind the failure of Mattheus' disappearing trick.

Grommet is a thirteen year old troublemaker who gets a job as an undercover agent at a fun park trying to catch a saboteur. He survives a terrifying ordeal suspended upside down from a stopped rollercoaster, and other misadventures.

The Book of Lies has not been completely destroyed and Fergus takes a fragment of it on his quest to destroy the traitor Damon. Fergus, however, is in great peril so Marcel and Nicola must find him in time before he reaps his revenge.

Renton is visiting his dad in France and everything is brilliant until they stumble across a suspicious meeting by the beach. When his father disappears, it's up to Renton to save the day even though he doesn't speak French and can't drive. Luckily, Renton has his mobile phone.

Peter's saviour from the school bullies is an unlikely hero dressed in a cape who speaks in old-fashioned English. An exciting, heart-warming story about bringing the truth out in people. A realistic stories with non-stop action.

It's summer, it's hot and Brent is stuck collecting trolleys at his local shopping centre. When an attempt at the world-record trolley push ends in disaster and a priceless diamond goes missing, Brent's summer job starts to look a lot more exciting.

Meet the wild horses and find out lots of information, including how they became wild, how they communicate, the difference between a wild horse and a domesticated one, and how their habitats are threatened.

After ruining a classmate's costume party, the Bowman triplets are chased into the city sewers. Locked inside, they discover a gateway to another world where sharks fly, swashbucklers scheme and party costumes become real. The triplets are mistaken for famous heroes and must fight the biggest trouble of all.

One of the many inventions of Nicholas is a belt that lets him travel through time. His teacher sees it as a way to gain world domination. They become locked in an hysterical, time-hopping battle that Nicholas has to win to save the world.

Enchanting, wicked and often very funny, these eight folk tales from Poland have a timeless, universal appeal.

Anne Shirley, the spirited red-haired orphan know as Anne of Green Gables, is now half past sixteen and has returned ready to start in her first teaching position, at her old school. Anne discovers the joys and tribulations of teaching, helps raise twins and has a vision for Avonlea.

Adopted by an elderly brother and his spinster sister who live on a Canadian island, Anne delights in her new life and friends in this enduring classic.

Any five titles read from this series can be included as official Challenge books; up to five more titles can be included as your personal choice books. To see the individual book titles and their PRC ID numbers, go to the Series lists on the Booklists page, on the website. Or, you can search for a series name or the individual titles by using the Search function on the top of the screen.

Ingleside is a busy and contented place, home for Anne, Gilbert and their six children. But then Gilbert's maiden aunt comes to stay and for a while the peace is sadly strained.

Anne is off to college with her childhood friends, Gilbert and Charlie. New friends and adventures, including a marriage proposal, await Anne who remains as spirited and irrepressible as ever.

The letters of a grown-up Anne Shirley to Gilbert Blythe reveal her life, teaching at Windy Poplars. This book is also known as Anne of Windy Willows.

Anne has become the wife of Dr Gilbert Blythe. She must adjust to married life in the white cottage on the harbor shore.

In the sea-sprayed town of Avonlea, there were wonderful stories. There was the case of Ludovic Speed, who wouldn't propose to the woman he had courted for fifteen years until Anne devised a plan to ""speed"" him up.

Filled with warmth, humor, and mystery, these unforgettable stories recreate the enchanting world of Avonlea.

Anne Shirley has married Gilbert and now is the mother of six mischievous children. The children discover a special place all their own, but they never dream of what will happen when a strange family moves nearby.

Undreamed-of challenges await Rilla when the world of Ingleside becomes endangered by a far-off war. Her brothers go off to fight, and Rilla brings home an orphaned newborn in a soup tureen.

The Abominable Snowman has been possibly spotted in the Himalayas. Can you choose which path through this book to take that will find the Abominable Snowman and make you a famous explorer? There are 28 different paths to choose, pick wisely.

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 the lost city of Atlantis really exist? Or is it just a myth? You are a highly experienced deep-sea explorer. But your search for the lost city of Atlantis is the trip of a lifetime. You must make choices necessary to go deeper, hoping one will lead you to your quarry: the mythical lost continent of Atlantis!

The legendary jewels of Nabooti are missing! Will finding them help world peace? Or could it kill you? Two huge diamonds and priceless rubies have been stolen from a museum in Paris. Now you must help your cousins Peter and Lucy find them. Strangers offer help, even the police, but can you trust them?

Yanni resents being a big brother but when his baby sister is stolen by an evil faerie, Yanni must race against time before she is lost forever. Battling goblins and dodging potentially fatal faerie trickery, Yanni, with the help of his cousin Amy, discovers that courage, trust and love can be powerful weapons against the darkest evil.

This is a book for everybody. Welcome! Take a seat! And listen carefully, because this story has a heartbeat. Can you feel it, there in your chest? Legendary storyteller Boori Monty Pryor invites us to travel with him from the first footsteps through 80,000+ years of strength, sickness, and immense possibility. From the very first stories and art, to dance, language, and connection with the land, Boori offers a powerful, beautiful, and deeply rich account of Australia's true history, drawing on a lifetime of wisdom, and on his generous instinct to teach and heal.

In this fabulous book are fourteen songs, ten in Walmajarri language about four in English, all beautifully illustrated by the kids from the Yakanarra Community School. There are songs about how the Walmajarri come to Yakanarra, their special places, the animals and birds and the sounds that they make, hunting, fishing and collecting bush food, and more. The songs, sung to the tunes of well known classics, were written to help the kids at Yakanarra speak Walmajarri, but this is a book to be treasured and enjoyed by everyone.

Something to say is a delightful fiction story about eleven year old Jenae set in high school. Jenae likes to be alone and is happy with that until Aubrey comes to her school. Will Jenae find her voice and overcome her fears of public speaking and stand up for what she believes in. This story highlights the importance of being a good friend and gaining confidence when you least expect it.

Twenty stories about how the world began and the events that followed. They are based around a host of characters, including Australian animals, non-native animals, spirits, planets, the sun and moon, and humans. The title story, The Flying Emu, tells of a beautifully-coloured emu who learns about vanity and immodesty when he and his friends race to the sun.

The magic fair has a lot more than just fairy floss and fun rides, it has cakes that jump and pies that fly. Enter but beware. Kayla and her cousin, Phil, soon find out that not all the surprises are nice ones. When Phil is mean to Kayla, the fair takes matters into its own hands in a very unusual way.

Girls can fly! Every girl is the star in her own life story. Stretch out your arms, aim for your dreams, believe in your wings and breathe in the sky. Girl for you, anything is possible. Your future is amazing. Fly high!

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.

No sooner had Tom come back from his last mission, than Grandpa sends him on the next. Grandpa has discovered a dragon egg about to hatch. Tom, Bilby and Mother Bird, head to Dragonay, taking the egg with them but the residents of Dragonay don't trust humans and all the dragons have disappeared.

A stopwatch has sixty thin black lines, each marking off the seconds in a minute. But in grandfathers' stopwatch they are also gateways to different worlds. Tom just can't wait to borrow it. He soon finds himself sucked into a very different world indeed, a world of monsters and warfare.

Tom and Bilby soon discover that although Leevan seems like a fun-filled land, this world is in danger after someone poisoned the creeks and rivers.

At his grandfather's request, Tom and Bilby, are sent to save the Land of Mirthful. Tom is welcomed by the grumpy Queen Mavis, who threatens anyone who laughs with the punishment of death. But she is not the rightful ruler of the Land of Mirthful and without a proper queen their world as they know it is doomed.

A day in the life of Little Bird as she sings the world alive, flies with Cloud, travels with Wind, nestles with Moon and dreams of flying among the stars.

The magical fourth book in the rich and whimsical world of the Kingdoms and Empires about a non-magical boy called Oscar who finds himself caught up in a surprisingly urgent quest in an even more surprising world.

Bronte Mettlestone's parents ran away to have adventures when she was a baby, leaving her to be raised by her Aunt Isabelle and the Butler. Bronte's parents have left extremely detailed (and bossy) instructions for Bronte in their will. The instructions must be followed to the letter, or disaster will befall Bronte's home. After her parents are killed by pirates she is to travel the kingdoms and empires, perfectly alone, delivering special gifts to her ten other aunts. Now, armed with only her parents' instructions, a chest full of strange gifts and her own strong will, Bronte must journey forth to face dragons, Chief Detectives and pirates - and the gathering suspicion that there might be something more to her extremely inconvenient quest than meets the eye...

Any three titles read from this series can be included as official Challenge books; up to five more titles can be included as your personal choice books. To see the individual book titles and their PRC ID numbers, go to the Series lists on the Booklists page, on the website. Or, you can search for a series name or the individual titles by using the Search function on the top left hand corner of the screen.

The town of Spindrift is frequented by pirates, Shadow Mages and charlatans. It's also home to the Orphanage School, where Finlay lives with Glim, Taya and Eli. Just outside town is the painfully posh Brathelthwaite Boarding School, home to Honey Bee, Hamish and Victor, Duke of Ainsley. When the two schools compete at the Spindrift Tournament, stakes are high, tensions are higher, and some people are out to win at any cost. Before long, the orphans and the boarding school students are in an all-out war. Children are being stolen, Witches, Sirens and a deadly magical flu invade the town, and all attempts to fight back are met with defeat. Finlay, Honey Bee and their friends must join forces to outwit the encroaching forces of darkness, rescue the stolen children, and turn the tide of the war. But how can one bickering troupe outwit the insidious power of the Whisperers? And who are the two mysterious figures watching them from the shadows?

Esther Mettlestone-Staranise is looking forward to another year at Katherine Valley Boarding School. But she arrives to find a number of strange and unsettling changes. For one, her new teacher is rumoured to be an Ogre. Two mysterious students have joined the school, and one of Esther's classmates is an undercover Spellbinder. Most disturbingly, the mountains surrounding the school - usually a delight of glaciers, teashops, lakes and Faeries - are now crowded with wicked Shadow Mages. As secrets and dangers escalate, Esther must find the answers to several puzzles. Why is her teacher behaving so oddly? Which of Esther's classmates is the Spellbinder, and can they really protect the school from gathering hordes of Shadow Mages? Could the Stolen Prince of Cloudburst be connected? How can Esther - who is not talented like her sisters, nor an adventurer like her cousin, but just Esther - save her family, her school and possibly her entire world?

On planet, Globagaskar, the King and Queen have gone on holiday, leaving their spoilt daughter, Princess Petronella, in charge. Her latest idea is to turn Earth into a rubbish dump and move all the inhabitants to another planet. Nicola and the Space Brigade embark on a mission to save Earth.

The Space Brigade are on an incredible journey that will take them across infested rivers, snowy swamplands and frozen seas. Along the way they'll learn new skills, make new friends - and they might just change the planet of Shobble's history forever.

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.

Nicola Berry, Earthling Ambassador and leader of the Space Brigade, receives the terrible news that Shimlara's family have been kidnapped and are being held captive on the Planet of Whimsy, the most beautiful planet in the universe, by the scaly inhabitants of Volcanomania. Space Brigade to the rescue.

Nicola Berry's life is turned upside down the day a man from another planet comes to Earth on a strange mission. He's looking for somebody to travel back to his home planet and convince their stuck-up princess not to turn Earth into her planet's giant garbage dump. When Nicola is chosen as the Earthling Ambassador, she's not sure that she's up to the task. Can Nicola and her friends save the planet in time? Or will the nasty Princess Petronella cover Earth in a galactic ton of garbage?

Nicola Berry and her friends have barely caught their breath from their last trip to space when they are called on another intergalactic adventure! This time, they're on their way to Shobble, a beautiful snowy rainbow planet where nothing bad ever happens or so they say. It turns out there is trouble brewing beneath this glittery exterior, and Nicola is put in a tough position. Should she risk defying the planet's dangerous commander-in-chief to help the people of Shobble? Leading the Space Brigade is no easy task!

Nicola and her friends' whirlwind tour of the galaxy isn't about to stop! The Space Brigade's third adventure takes them to a strange pair of planets that couldn't be more different. On one side is a planet covered in volcanoes. On the other side, a beautiful place full of daydreamy poets. Nicola and the Space Brigade find themselves caught in the middle of a war between the two, and must find a way to make peace before it's too late!

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.

Recollections of life before and during World War 2, and the horrific aftermath of the dropping of the atomic bomb on Hiroshima. Provides a potent warning of the dangers of nuclear warfare.

Two strong men try to out bluff each other, and each becomes a winner. This has been translated from an original Japanese story.

Beowulf, the fearless warrior battles three evils that terrorise the entire kingdom of Denmark. He slays Grendel the merciless ogre and his vengeful sea hag mother. In his old age, Beowulf faces a bloody struggle with the deadly dragon of the deep in which he may not be as successful as in his youth.

Joy and heartbreak combine in this bittersweet tale of a champion greyhound's journey through life as he passes from owner to owner. A wonderful story of the bond between a pet and three families who get back much more than they could have imagined from allowing a dog into their lives. This book is also known as Born to Run.

The stories of a young man, his little sister and a baby swallow are intertwined simply to reveal the high price a young man pays when he gives up a lucrative career in vet science to bring joy and laughter to orphans in Africa. The values he puts on love, laughter and the chance to see gorillas in the wild make it all worth it.

An adaptation of the Robinson Crusoe story, a family's sailing adventure turns into a story of survival following a storm.

Lost in a dark, strange forest, Robin is rescued by a crew of misfits, the Outlaws. He seeks justice and revenge against the Sheriff of Nottingham, once and for all.

Australian-Greek girl Nandi travels to her ancestors' home in Ithaca, and discovers - through a friendship with an extremely unusual flying fish - the extraordinary story of her great-aunt Elena; of how she fell in love, in the hardest of times, and how of how she became an unsung hero of World War Two. But Elena has gone missing, and Nandi has to find her. In her search, she will discover that Elena was an even greater hero than she thought - and still is...

This story is based on two real life events. Never have Aman and his mother needed a friend more than when a Springer Spaniel appears, thin and war-ravaged, in the mouth of their Afghan cave. Nursed back to health by Aman, the dog becomes a constant companion, a shadow. But, as life in war-torn Afghanistan becomes more dangerous, Aman, his mother and Shadow embark upon the treacherous journey from Afghanistan to a relative's home in Manchester, England, where they hope to be safe.

Michael loves an early morning walk along the Thames River to see the water birds. One day, he is surprised to spot a whale in the river. He thinks he must be dreaming when he can hear the whale's thoughts. The whale has come on a long and difficult journey to pass on a very special message to a child. Michael has to try to help deliver the message.

In the town of Hamelin, the rich and greedy live like kings and queens, while the poor and sick scavenge rubbish tips for scraps. An orphan boy tells the classic tale of how a plague of rats take over the town and how a fantastic piper offers to rid Hamelin of its rats for a single gold coin. But, when the greedy mayor breaks his word, the piper lures the town's children away.

"We were the truth of our own story. Me, and the two tiny people on my shoulder, in the middle of the sea..." War has forced Omar and his mother to leave their home in Afghanistan and venture across the sea to Europe. When their boat sinks, and Omar finds himself alone, with no hope of rescue, it seems as if his story has come to an end. But it is only just beginning. Because in the end, a little hope makes a big difference...

Set in wartime Devon, this is the diary of plucky young Lily Tregenza whose town is invaded by escaping evacuees and American soldiers. When Lily enlists the help of two young, black American soldiers to find her missing cat, there are surprising results.

Barney's home in Coventry has been bombed along with most of the other houses in the street so he and his mother are on a train to Cornwall. But even a train is not safe as it comes under fire by a couple of Messerschmitt aircraft, only just escaping destruction in a tunnel. Barney's fear of the dark is gradually eased when a stranger begins a story as they wait for the all clear. And what a story it is. A young soldier in World War 1 became the most decorated Private of that war due to his bravery, loyalty and mateship. But one of his actions, at the time seen to be the right thing to do, turned out to have some terrible consequences. It is up to him to make things right.

It's 1944 and Elizabeth's father is fighting with the German army on the eastern front. In Dresden, Elizabeth, Karli and their mother are fleeing the city as the allied bombs fall. They face a torturous journey through a perilous, snow-covered landscape to reach the safety of the west. It would be hard enough, without an elephant in tow.

At the beginning of the twentieth century, Johnny Trott, a bell-boy at London's prestigious Savoy Hotel, befriends a guest, the Russian aristocrat, Countess Kandinsky. She trusts him to look after her special cat, Prince Kaspar, and a series of events are set in motion that take Johnny and Kaspar all around the world, and change his life forever.

Charley and her brother, Alex, are walking their dog, Manfred, on the beach when they meet two old men staring out to sea. They meet by chance and discover how the men are involved in their mother's past and where the name for their dog really came from.

Jonah is so busy caring for his mother that he has no time to make friends. When life seems most bleak, the discovery of a lucky button connects him to Nathaniel, a foundling boy from the eighteenth century. Nathaniel's story and his button just might be the lucky token Jonah needs.

Michael has spent his life trying not to stare at his grandfather's scars. His grandfather's gruff manner and upsetting appearance always kept Michael from getting close. One summer, Michael must stay with his grandfather and he finally gets the courage to look directly at his grandfather and ask him to tell his story.

Yannick's mother requires an operation so he will have to spend the summer with relatives in the South of France. Here, Yannick spends time with his aunt, uncle and beautiful cousin while working at their restaurant and discovering the beauties of the countryside made famous by Cezanne. One evening, Yannick accidentally destroys an art work by the world's greatest artist and must find a way to correct his terrible mistake.

Andrew thinks he has seen his long lost father dressed as a polar bear on a show poster. The boys have so many questions and are understandably curious, so they try to find a way to get to the theatre and find out for sure if the polar bear is their dad.

It's the final day of the holidays, and Cherry resolves to collect the last few shells she needs to complete her necklace. She's determined it will be fit for a giant. Then the clouds roll in and the sea becomes a writhing grey monster and Cherry is cut off from the shore. The only way to escape is through an old tin mine deep in the rocks, which hides a ghostly secret of those who have gone before.

A collection of fact and fiction, some extracts and some complete works, with a common theme of birthdays. Illustrations by Quentin Blake add a lovely dimension.

From the frozen polar regions to warm ocean currents, scorching deserts to tropical rainforests, animals all over the world respond to the four seasons in very different ways. Their survival depends on it. Learn about their conservation status and see how animals adapt to the changing seasons in their Northern and Southern Hemisphere homes.

New Zealand is home to many fascinating creatures. From a prehistoric reptile to one of the world's largest insects, you'll discover some of the most unusual and impressive species on our planet.

Peek inside the secret world of faeries and find out the difference between a pixie and a nixie, and what happens if you nibble on a piece of faerie food. A mischievous pixie named Pip invites you to tour the wonders of the feywild. Once you've entered faerie land, you may never want to go home again.

A fantastical introduction to wizards, including all the secrets needed in the first year of wizard training and magic. Beautifully illustrated and imaginative guide to all things wizardly.

An anthology of Australian stories and poems with whimsical pictures.

A heartwarming story about a year 5 student who suffers from major anxieties. She is about to embark on the stage 3 camp of a lifetime but could think of nothing worse. She has created a BIG LIST of all the reasons why she should not attend. If that isn't enough, there is a drought in their hometown and Michaela is desperately encouraging everyone to save water. What if it never rains again? What if the town runs out of water and they won't be able to shower or wash their hands anymore? What if there are spiders at camp? What if an escaped prisoner breaks into camp? There are so many what ifs in life - how is Michaela Mason ever going to relax and enjoy life? Making lists is one way to help Michaela deal with so many challenges.

From her early life to living in the White House we learn how she used her global platform to bring about change. Using key lessons from her work we learn new skills we can all apply to our own lives.

Young Beyonce Knowles was a shy girl who dreamed of being a star. With bravery and detemination, she has elevated herself from dance student to international icon. Now she's inspired millions through the power of her voice.

Captain Eric 'Ace' Crankshaw and his robot monkey, Barry, enter a race into space so that Eric's family can be debt free with the ten million dollars in prize money. But, musician Eric ends up having to attempt to save the world instead.

Our way is old, other than red earth, older than flickering stars. Our way is respect. A tender, thoughtful story reminding us to respect others and respect ourselves, Respect is suitable for readers of all ages.

Family. Listening. Sharing. Learning. Connecting. Heart and home. Family. Family is a thoughtful contemplation for all to learn the different ways that family makes us whole. This beautifully illustrated children's picture book shows everyone that "family" can be about heart and home; an endless sky; stories and songs. It "learns" us how to be with each other and with Country. Families come in all shapes and sizes, and this remarkably simple story teaches us all, that family can be many things.

Enter the world of Erdas, where every child who comes of age must discover if they have a spirit animal, a rare bond between human and beast that bestows great powers. A dark force has risen from distant and long-forgotten lands, and has begun an onslaught that will ravage the world. Now, the fate of Erdas has fallen on the shoulders of four young strangers, Conor, Abeke, Meilin and Rollan.

In the world of Erdas, four noble animals, Briggan the Wolf, Uraza the Leopard, Jhi the Panda and Essix the Falcon, sacrificed everything to protect their homes from the ambitions of a mad king. With a brave resistance of humans and animals, they gave their lives to protect the world from a threat more dangerous than any it had seen before, their own kind.

Ally is smart, but no one can see this. She's even been smart enough to fool most of the adults in her life so far. But when Mr Daniels arrives to teach her class, he sees through her bravado. Ally can't read and Mr Daniels can see this. But with his help, maybe Ally can beat the bullies and learn to trust those around her again.

Find out about the world around you by testing how things work and the laws of science. Carry out the invisible force of air-test to see how air moves and how it affects nature. Mix up some potions using household chemicals to create unexpected results. Challenge your perceptions with experiments that test your senses.

Stepping between Aboriginal Dreaming stories and the Australian yarn, the story of the Whalers reflects the ideas and practice of reconciliation showing the relationship between the orcas and the Aboriginal whalers of Twofold Bay.

This is a photo diary of the life of young Jada, daughter of boxer Anthony Mundine, the author of this book. Jada's special connection to her famous father inspired a tattoo.

Captain James Cook was an explorer in the British Royal Navy. In 1768, Cook and his crew on the HMB Endeavour set sail from England in search of new lands and scientific knowledge. They discovered the east coast of New Holland (Australia) and claimed it for the King of England in1788.

Ashley Rayburn is an upbeat girl with a decidedly downbeat past. She has bounced from foster home to foster home and represents a real challenge to the social workers who try to help her, because trouble always seems to find her! Ashley's latest set of foster parents are Kitch and Yuka Nolan. Like Ashley, Kitch is an artist. Yuka, on the other hand, is a geneticist working for a very high-level tech company. Yuka's latest top secret project is a set of body paints that, when applied to the wearer, grant them a wide range of special powers. When Ashley discovers the paints, she assumes these are for her, but soon realizes that she's stumbled upon something much bigger and a lot more dangerous. Although she uses her newly discovered powers for good, it's not long before the military becomes wise to what happened to their secret weapon. And this spells big trouble not only for Ashley, but for her newfound family and friends as well."

Welcome to the traditional lands of the Wurundjeri people. We are part of this land and the land is part of us. This is where we come from. Wominjeka Wurundjeri balluk yearmenn koondee bik. Welcome to country.

As ngua rises, Bunjil soars over mountain ash, flying higher and higher as the wind warms. Below, Birrarung begins its long winding path down to palem warreen. Wilam - home. In this stunning picture book by Indigenous artist Lisa Kennedy, respected Elder Aunty Joy Murphy and Yarra Riverkeeper Andrew Kelly tell the Indigenous and geographical story of Melbourne's beautiful Yarra river, from its source to its mouth, from its pre-history to the present day. Wilam is an ode to Australian rivers, the flora and fauna that live on them, and the function they perform as a part of modern day life and brings Aboriginal life, culture and language right in to the heart of the city.

Patricia is called Sweet Pea by everyone except for Daisy Mae, the eccentric old lady who lives in between Sweet Pea's two houses. When her parents decided to separate, Sweet Pea's mother thought it would be a great idea for her dad to move in two doors up and decorate her new bedroom at dad's exactly the same as the one she's always known and loved at home. It probably wasn't as great an idea as her mum thought. With the town gossiping about the reasons for her parents' divorce, a few too many misunderstandings with her best friend, and trying to succeed at the secret mission crazy old Flora Mae has given her, Sweet Pea might not be feeling too sweet at all.

Amy loves to read about real life heroes. When she is faced with a life threatening situation at her Gran's house, her understanding of what it takes to be a hero might just save her life, and her Gran's. Summer in Australia means bushfires, and when Amy and her Gran are faced with a bushfire far too close for comfort, Amy knows just what to do.

When you're part of the team the sideline is a place of refuge of rest of reprieve. But when you're out of the team the sideline changes. Suddenly it's the loneliest place of them all. After a devastating football injury, Blake struggles to cope with life on the sideline. Jolene, a gifted but conflicted hockey player, wants nothing more than for her dad to come home. And soccer-loving refugee, Amed, wants to belong. On the surface, it seems they have nothing in common. Except sport. A touching and inspirational story about the things that bind us all.

John is obsessed with dominoes, spending hours setting up lines until a small push causes them to fall as they should. When John's friend, Dominic, is diagnosed with cancer, John and his friends' worlds fall apart. They find ways to support Dom through his illness and gain understanding from an unlikely source.

Mary MacKillop, Australia's first saint, started her first school in 1866. It was the first of many schools she started, to educate any child, no matter how rich or poor.

At school, Pearl feels as though she is in a group of one. Her teacher wants her to write poems that rhyme but Pearl's poems don't. At home, however, Pearl feels safe and loved but her grandmother is slowly fading, and so are Mum and Pearl. When her grandmother eventually passes away, Pearl wants life to go back to the way it was.

The painting of Spring was as bright as a sunny day and the tiny yellow flowers which covered the fields were dancing with the breeze. When Lucy comes closer, she hears a voice calling from the other side and reaches through the painting.

When the future looks dark, courageous kids bring light and hope into the world. Forty true stories celebrate kids who have protested, prayed, rebelled, saved lives, earned a fortune, lost everything, become world famous, or fought to survive war or oppression. Fearless kids, feral kids, Olympic champions, human-rights crusaders, climate-change warriors, princes and prisoners, workers and whiz-kids - they all show the true courage of kids. From the distant past to the present moment, kids have made their mark on history, and now they're set to change the world.

To the first Europeans who came to Australia, everything seemed topsy turvy. Christmas was in the summer and trees shed their bark but not their leaves. And the animals were bizarre. There was a bird that laughed like a donkey and a type of greyhound that bound along on its hind legs like a hare.

There's a hill out the back of Joey's house. Hardly anyone goes there - it's not a beautiful place, just a covered-over old rubbish tip. But Joey likes it up there. It's his hill - somewhere he likes to go to wonder about life. He longs to be the best at something, to be a famous astronaut, or mountain climber, to stand out somehow. So when Joey discovers a tree house in an old peppercorn tree on the hill, he is annoyed that someone has invaded his special place. But he is also curious about who the intruder could be. But making contact isn't easy. The tree-house girl is wild and hostile and full of secrets. Joey needs to work out a way to win her over. And as he does, he finds a way to shine.

Molly has a strange life. At dawn, her mama collects herbs and makes potions, and her house feels like a gypsy caravan. Molly wishes she could be more like her best friend, Ellen, who has a normal life. But, she is also drawn to Pim, who is inquisitive and odd and a little bit frightening. When Molly's mama makes a potion that has a wild and shocking effect, Molly and Pim look for a way to make things right.

Everyone who loves Australia can appreciate the beauty and diversity of our wonderful country, shown through Neil Murray's song lyrics and beautiful landscape illustrations by the school children of the Kintore and Galiwinku communities.

When Chloe visits her Grandma Poppy, she learns just how close the Second World War came to destroying her family. In 1941, Poppy lived in Darwin, far from the war. When Japan attacked, everything Poppy held dear was threatened. Her brother was taken prisoner-of-war and her home town became a war zone. Poppy and her mother fled to Sydney, only to find that the danger followed them there.

Jemma lands a babysitting job in Rosethorne, one of the famous witches' houses near her home. The house is supposedly haunted by a sad little girl. When Jemma discovers a beautiful ivory rose locket, she sees a terrifying flashback and wakes up in 1895, where she becomes an apprentice maidservant. But. all is not well in the grand house. Young heiress Georgiana is constantly sick and Jemma suspects she's being poisoned.

Sophie falls asleep wearing a locket which belonged to her great-great-great-grandmother and is magically transported to 1858 to learn the truth about Charlotte Mackenzie, how she came to be in Australia and what happened to the family's priceless sapphire.

Marli is staying with her dad in Melbourne, and missing her friends. Then she discovers a mystery- an abandoned mansion, Riversleigh, is to be returned to her family after many years. Marli sneaks into the locked garden to explore, and meets Luca, a boy who has his own connection to Riversleigh. In 1922, Violet is fifteen and lives at Riversleigh. Her life is filled with boating parties, picnics and extravagant balls. An army of servants looks after her family- including the young Russian chauffeur, Nikolai. Over one summer Violet must decide what is important to her.

Any three titles read from this series can be included as official Challenge books; up to five more titles can be included as your personal choice books. To see the individual book titles and their PRC ID numbers, go to the Series lists on the Booklists page, on the website. Or, you can search for a series name or the individual titles by using the Search function on the top left hand corner of the screen.

The students in class 5M are heading off to school camp. Pippa has never been away on camp before, at least not to a deserted tropical island! The Sassy Sisters look forward to five blissful days together exploring Shipwreck Island's beaches and lagoon. But when the teams get regrouped, Pippa has to learn to cooperate with Olivia and the other girls. Mrs Marshall promised challenges and adventure, but she forgot to mention the pranks. After one too many of the boys' tricks, the girls decide to take their revenge. Will class 5M survive Camp Castaway?

Pippa is settling in to her island home- she's even learning to surf. School is abuzz when Mrs Neill announces the launch of a new student newspaper. But how will Pippa, Meg, Charlie and Cici decide what to write about when the four friends have such different interests? A fashion photo shoot could be fun- if it weren't for bad weather, a naughty puppy and other disasters. Just when things couldn't get any worse, the cub reporters get a news scoop that could bring the whole town together at the Beach Shack Cafe. Cupcakes for everyone! Whose story will make the front page?

Kira Cove Public School is hosting a talent quest. Cici, Meg and Charlie couldn't be more excited to perform, but Pippa gets butterflies at the thought of singing on stage. After a disastrous audition the girls get a second chance, but can Pippa find a way to smash her stage fright before the VIP concert? Meanwhile, at the Beach Shack Cafe a mysterious visitor is causing havoc when backs are turned. When Pippa finds a clue, she is determined to track down the mischievous cafe thief. Will Pippa sing with the Sassy Sisters?

Life can be hard when you're crammed into a tiny caravan with your noisy family. Pippa's looking forward to moving into their new home above the Beach Shack Cafe, but it's taking forever! Money is tight, too, and Pippa has her eye on a gorgeous new swimming costume. Luckily, Pippa has her Sassy Sisters to help. Together they come up with a plan to make some cash: Pippa's Perfect Pooch Pampering! Before long, Pippa has her hands full with adorable but pesky pups. What could possibly go wrong?

Pippa has just arrived at a new school, in a new town, and even living on a gorgeous island isn't cheering her up. Her arrival cause ripples at Kira Cove Primary School- but she soon starts to make friends with eco-warrior Meg, boho-chick Charlie, and fashionista and cupcake baker Cici. Pippa's mum plans to buy a rustic old boatshed and start a bookshop cafe. Pippa worries they'll use all their money in this madcap venture- until her new friends come to the rescue to help get the grand opening back on track.

Tilly falls asleep wearing a ruby talisman, wishing she could escape to a more adventurous life. In 1789, Amelie-Mathilde is living at the opulent palace of Versailles but her guardians want her to marry the horrible old Chevalier. Amelie-Mathilde falls asleep holding her own ruby talisman, wishing for rescue.

Who do you trust if you have been told to trust no one? Sophie returns to the magical land of Tuscia and is instantly thrown into danger - Nanna and Caterina Rossellana have been kidnapped. To save them, Sophie and Nicco must team up with a theater troupe who are performing for the Mago in the city across the Silver Sea. Can Sophie unravel the political intrigues of Venetto and save the grandmothers? Or will she fall foul of the evil Mago and be thrown into the dungeons to be eaten by the Mostro of the Dark Waters?

In her wildest dreams, Sophie never thought she might be kidnapped by a cat and taken to a world of flying horses and wonder - but also magic, mystery and danger! Transported to the land of Tuscia, Sophie accidentally saves the daughter of a wealthy family and is swept along on their journey to the Golden Tower. Now she is the only one standing between sisters Isabella and Bia and the terrible fate their stepmother has planned. Sophie doesn't think she is brave enough, but with the help of a talking cat, a stableboy and some very tiny mischief-makers, she might be able to save the day.

Packed with interesting and entertaining facts about the things that happen on Earth every sixty seconds. To whet your appetite, 2,000 thunderstorms occur, 45 million gallons of water go over Niagara Falls, 2,271 working satellites orbit Earth, a hair grows 0.00027 inch and 15,000 gallons of air are inhaled by a blue whale.

At just thirteen, Romola has changed school five times and always has trouble making friends. By chance, she meets Sebastian and they help each other resolve some serious feelings of injustice. Romola is having trouble with some friends who are being mean to her and Sebastian is missing his dad. If someone did something very hurtful to you and you had a perfect way to pay them back, would you do it? Romola and Sebastian have to make just such a decision.

Mackenzie and Tahlia have lived with their grandfather since their parents died. Lately, Grandpa hasn't been himself and people are starting to notice. They try to hide his irrational behaviour but Mackenzie must make some difficult choices to protect those she loves.

Frieda, her sickly mother and her father travel from Germany to Australia, looking for a better life. Nervous and excited about Adelaide, a drought-stricken town with hordes of flies and barefoot children, Frieda is keen to make friends. But, as the First World War takes hold, the Germans are now seen as the enemy. Rumours begin to circulate that Frieda's father is a spy. Frieda has her own battles to fight. She begins to wonder whether she should change her name and hide all trace of her culture.

Lucy van Loon knows she's a good girl. She wonders why she's always sitting on the Time Out chair. After all, she had a good reason for tipping Jacinta's pencils all over the floor and for shrieking when her grumpy aunt called her a greedy liar. Her aunt has brought something from Holland that Lucy wishes she'd never seen. Now, she has to figure out how to avoid it, and fast. It's time to prove she really is Lucy the Good.

Lucy is off on her adventures again, with friends, enemies and lots of accidents and Funniest Home Video moments.