Booklists

The nomad clan of Sawney Rath can feel their fortunes changing. The next great leader has been born within the walls of Redwall Abbey and Sawney Rath is determined to harness the power of this magnificent beast - the deadly Taggerung.

Noah is in love with his online best friend. Which is a huge problem, for the following reasons- 1. His crush has no idea. 2. Noah only knows him as his gaming avatar. 3. There's zero chance they'll ever meet in real life. So, when Noah sees an opportunity to secretly meet his crush, he takes it. Even though he'll have to join the cast of a local production of Chicago with his self-obsessed mother. Even though he'll need to lie to his best (and only) friend. And even though he'll have to sing and dance in front of actual people. Because love is worth the risk. And, really, what could possibly go wrong? Usually read by students in Years 9, 10 or above.

Dom's almost there, the end is in sight and the Debt wants proof that Dom has what it takes to become one of them. Dom is desperate to be rid of his debt, but can he kill another person to prove himself. He is alone, so terribly alone.

In a Year 9 boarding school dormitory, introspective Laura pours out her observations of friends, family, her frustrations and successes, her thoughts and feelings in her writing. She also befriends Marina who readers met in 'So much to tell you'. Usually read by students in Years 9, 10 or above.

Centuries ago, the royal family of Adria was killed. But, Grace Blakely knows the truth, there was one survivor, and that blood runs through her veins. The truth may cause a revolution and some are desperate to keep it a secret. To save herself, her family and the boy she loves, Grace must outmanoeuvre her foes and cut through the web of lies, despite the risks. If she wins, Grace will inherit a throne. If she loses, she will inherit the fate of all the dead princesses who came before her. Usually read by students in Years 9, 10 or above.

Bug has a secret. Actually, he has lots of secrets. Number one: He has formed a basketball team at his new school based on a giant lie. Number two: his parents do not know he is playing basketball again. Number three: his new team mates have no idea he isn't allowed to play and they definitely do not know why. Bug will do anything to keep his secrets, keep his new team and keep his life from falling apart. No one can know the biggest secret of all.....

The door creaks open and standing in the entrance is my absolute worst nightmare. Perfect hair, perfect teeth, perfect brain. Perfect sneer. Evelyn Tait. Taking Down Evelyn Tait is a story about family, friends and embracing who you are. Even if that person is kind of weird. Usually read by students in years 9, 10 and above.

Sixteen-year-old Jake Livingston sees dead people. Jake can't decide what's worse: being a medium, forced to watch the dead play out their last living moments on a loop, or being at the mercy of racist teachers as one of the few Black students at St Clair Prep. Both are a living nightmare. And now life as a medium is getting worse, as a powerful, vengeful ghost targets Jake, High school has become a different kind of survival game - one Jake is not sure he can win. Usually read by students in years 9, 10, or above.

The tales of this book explore and extend the world established by the Earthsea novels--yet each stands on its own. It contains the novella "The Finder," and the short stories "The Bones of the Earth," "Darkrose and Diamond," "On the High Marsh," and "Dragonfly." Concluding with with an account of Earthsea's history, people, languages, literature, and magic, this collection also features two new maps of Earthsea.

A beautifully illustrated and innovative book, full of fanciful whimsy that takes us to a place where we might think about ourselves and our society. Usually read by students in years 9, 10 and above.

World-renowned artist Shaun Tan applies his unique imagination to a reflection on the nature of humans and animals, and our urban coexistence. From crocodile to frog, tiger to bee, this is a dark and surreal exploration of the perennial love and destruction we feel and inflict - of how animals can save us, and how our lives are forever entwined, for better or for worse.

Four classic tales from the author of 'The Lord of the Rings'.

These stories, legends from ancient Egypt, are of gods, magic and adventure, including the great myths of Amen-Ra of Isis.

Fourteen year old Jahani lives a peaceful life in her village in Pakistan. But, havoc is brewing in the Mughal Empire, with tyrants and war lords burning villages in their quest to rule. After an assassin strikes in a bazaar, Jahani discovers her life is not as it seems. With her mysterious protector, Azhar, she flees over treacherous terrain towards the fabled Qurraqoram Mountains. Surrounded by deceit and danger, Jahani does not know who to trust or what their destination will reveal. The story concludes in book 2, The Leopard Princess.

First Moon of Autumn, 1662. After reuniting with the nomads, fourteen year old Jahani is finally home. With her red hair dyed black, she can travel through the Qurraqoram Mountains without fear of being captured. But, the tyrants and war lords who pursue Jahani will not rest in their battle for power. Before long, the nomads are attacked. To fulfil her true destiny, Jahani must try to discover a pathway to peace in the northern kingdoms. Sequel to Daughter of nomads and the conclusion to The Tales of Jahani.

Before Miss Peregrine gave them a home, the story of peculiars was written in the Tales. Wealthy cannibals who dine on the discarded limbs of peculiars. A fork-tongued princess. The origins of the first ymbryne. These are but a few of the truly brilliant stories in Tales of the Peculiar - known to hide information about the peculiar world - first introduced by Ransom Riggs in his Miss Peregrine's Peculiar Children series. Riggs now invites you to share his secrets of peculiar history, with a collection of original stories, as collected and annotated by Millard Nullings, ward of Miss Peregrine and scholar of all things peculiar. Usually read by students in years 9, 10 and above.

Olly and Josh are travelling in Egypt with Olly's father, Professor Christie, in search of the precious talismans of the moon. Danger, however, lurks in the shadows. Josh and Olly must outwit whoever is trying to get there first.

Will and Summer meet online and strike up a friendship based on a coincidence. Both are missing a parent and need a friend. Summer lives in Will's old hometown, a small community on Tasmania's coast. But, Summer isn't telling the whole truth about herself. She figures it doesn't matter, if they never see each other. But, when Will returns and they meet, Summer can no longer hide her secret.

Set in Chile, this political thriller takes the reader on a physical and emotional journey into a military coup. A powerful and disturbing novel about one boy's attempt to reveal the abuse of power and torture used by the state. Usually read by students in Years 9, 10 or above.

Baptista Minola has two daughters that he wants to find husbands for. His younger daughter, Bianca, is sweet and quiet. There are many men who want to marry her. His older daughter, Katharina, is known for being wild and angry, and Baptista is worried no one will marry her. However, Baptista announces that Bianca cannot get married until Katharina gets married. Usually read by students in Years 9, 10 & above.

Silvermay has followed and assisted Tamlyn through many dangers to defeat the darkness of his soul and save baby Lucien from the evil magic inside of him. If Silvermay can save Tamlyn from himself, then together they may save Lucien from the horrors Coyle wants to inflict through Lucien.

Clever, eleven year old heroine, Silver, is on a modern day quest to get time right. She must escape the villainous Abel Darkwater and find the timekeeper to save the people of London from the disasters caused by time tornadoes and time traps.

Long ago, Tanith Low was good but a Remnant has taken over her soul and now she wants to join forces with a nasty bunch of villains. The fight scenes are brutal, the planning is meticulous and Tanith keeps her sense of humour in balance with her sense of dread. The art of the double-cross has never been more sinister but love lies in mysterious places too. A one-off novella in the Skulduggery Pleasant universe.

As many others had done, Australian 16 year-olds Frankie and Taz lied about their ages to enlist for WWI, one envisaging the adventure of a lifetime, the other to assuage guilt about staying at home when his brothers have died in the war. On the German side, Richard, also 16, finds himself assigned in one of the first German tanks. The three are destined to meet in the same shelled out crater during history's first tank battle.

In 1993, Ryan records a diary on an old tape. He talks about his mother's death, about his dreams, about his love for a girl at school who doesn't even know he exists. In 2013, Ameliah moves in with her grandmother after her parents die. There, she finds a tape in the spare room, with a boy's voice on it - a voice she can't quite hear, but which seems to be speaking to her.

This biography traces five generations of an Australian Italian family. Usually read by students in Years 9, 10 or above.

Assistant pig-keeper Taran has fallen in love with Princess Eilonwy. But, he is yet to discover the truth about himself. Determined to prove worthy in her eyes, he sets off on a quest for knowledge of his birthright. With his loyal friends, Taran meets three enchantresses who send him to consult the mysterious Mirror of Llunet, to find the truth about himself.

Ben comes upon Taronga Zoo which seems unaffected by a nuclear holocaust, or is it? Ben and his Aboriginal friend, Ellie, are aware that decisions they make may have huge implications for the future. Usually read by students in Years 9, 10 or above.

Abandoned to his fate when his English parents die in the African jungle, a baby boy is rescued and reared by a loving ape, foster mother. Tarzan grows into a mighty warrior, becoming leader of his tribe of apes, until he encounters humans for the first time.

Well-written, easily read short stories for young adults using simple, effective language to tackle mature themes like war and relationships including racial prejudice. Contains language that may offend some readers. Usually read by students in years 9, 10 and above.

Tansy is a laundry-maid with a fear of the dark. Skir is a Priest-King who lacks the powers he's supposed to have and Perrin is a swordsman with a gift that gives him power over animals. They become unlikely travelling companions, on the run. Usually read by students in Years 9, 10 or above.

Bailey Morgan and her friends, Delia, Annabelle and Zo, apply strange, temporary tattoos picked up from a small booth at the mall. The tattoos will, supposedly, last for three days and the girls are sure they will absolutely kill at the school dance. Unfortunately, killing is just what someone has in mind. Along with the tattoo, each girl receives a gift, a supernatural power to help in the fight for their lives.

A compilation of the two authors' favourite poems are illustrated in this Australian poetry book.

Ten stories of different people who might be best avoided! Conniving characters that come in all shapes, sizes and disguises.

Cassie and Claire are best friends and do everything together. But, Claire always likes things her way. Cassie's fed up and now they've fallen out. They must find a way to mend the rift.

Explores the use of technology in ancient Egypt including technology used in architecture, crafts, hobbies, transportation and ancient inventions.

Tee Dee is alone, stranded on a backward planet called Earth but help is at hand. The Zone Commandos may be primitive but they make a great team. Tee Dee could do with some friends.

Friendships and peer groups can cause problems and upsets in your teenage years. People can be confusing- until you understand how different personality traits, stresses and emotions affect their behaviours. Yours too! This book is for anyone who wants to know how friendships work and what to do when they don't. You'll find positive advice on how to make and keep friends, as well as positive strategies to help you through the tough times and make you feel more confident.

Lennie is leaving the security of life at home to attend a day school in Sydney. She is full of excitement but life outside her secure house with her younger sisters throws up all sorts of challenges, She finds a best friend in Mabel Jones, a fellow pupil and begins to develop her talents as a writer. A charming tale of life as a teenage girl in Sydney in the late 1800's.

Years from when they escaped the sinister tombs of Atuan as a feisty high priestess and a powerful wizard, she is a simple, farmer's widow and he is a broken, old man mourning the powers that are lost to him. Now they must join forces again but this time to help a physically and emotionally scarred child whose destiny has not yet been revealed. Usually read by students in Years 9, 10 or above.

Rey Tanic is not like other 14 year olds. His dad is a mafia boss. His dad also in jail. When Rey's life explodes, every decision he makes will shape the rest of his life. How far does the apple really fall from the tree?

Prospero, robbed of his dukedom, has been marooned for many years on a wild island with his daughter, Miranda. He applies his magic skills to contrive a shipwreck and take revenge on his usurping brother and the faction who exiled him. But, it is the power of love that finally triumphs. Graphic (Manga) novel with authentic Shakespearean text. Usually read by students in years 9, 10 and above.

The Tempest opens in the midst of a storm, as a ship containing the king of Naples and his party struggles to stay afloat. On land, Prospero and his daughter, Miranda, watch the storm envelop the ship. Usually read by students in Years 9, 10 & above.

Hopewell Shakespeare craves adventure and he joins the crew of a notorious buccaneer hunting for the Lost Island of the Lord of Alchemists where dreams come true. Usually read by students in Years 9, 10 or above.

Jamie hates lot of things about her life, her dark hair, her dad's Charter of Curfew Rights and her real name. Jamie has hidden her Lebanese background from everyone at school and it's only with her email friend, John, that she can really be herself. But, things are getting complicated. The most popular boy in school is interested in her, she keeps thinking about Timothy, the school loner, and the school formal is coming up.

When Calwyn learns that Darrow has been infected, she begins a desperate race through the frozen forests. She must find the answers in time to heal him and have the courage to embrace the dark magic to save Tremaris. Usually read by students in Years 9, 10 and above.

In the Old Kingdom, a land of ancient and often terrible magics, orphan Terciel learns the art of necromancy from his great-aunt Tizanael. He is the Abhorsen-in-Waiting, and Tizanael is the Abhorsen, the latest in a long line of people whose task it is to make sure the Dead do not return to Life. Across the Wall in Ancelstierre, nineteen-year-old Elinor lives a secluded life. Her mother is a tyrant, who is feared by all despite her sickness and impending death . . . but perhaps there is even more to fear from that. Elinor does not know she is deeply connected to the Old Kingdom until a plot by an ancient enemy of the Abhorsens brings Terciel and Tizanael to Ancelstierre. In a single day of fire and death and loss, Elinor finds herself set on a path which will take her into the Old Kingdom, into Terciel's life, and will embroil her in the struggle of the Abhorsens against the Dead who will not stay dead.

Eddie, our steadfast hero, is en route to North America aboard a sailing ship, with a cargo hold full of left shoes, the world-famous Dog's Bone Diamond and some very disreputable travelling companions. A mysterious stowaway and some familiar faces from Eddie's past only complicate matters, as does being tied up and set adrift in a leaky rowboat.

Beka Cooper starts training as a Dog, the slang for police officer in her time, for the local magistrate. Being accepted as a new Puppy in the guard has its challenges but Beka has special advantages. She can hear the souls of the dead and the voices of murdered victims. With her magical and intuitive cat and her two trainers, she is out to discover who is behind the disappearance of lower city children.

Trapped in a cargo plane. High over the jungle. The DARE winners have no choice. They must jump! If they can get off the plane alive, and survive an attack by the remnants of Marco Bravo's army, the DARE winners will have to confront Felix Scott with all the evidence they have that he is The Signmaker. What will their enemy do if he's backed into a corner? From Bogota, Colombia, to Sydney, Australia, the DARE winners have to risk everything to get to the truth and stop The Signmaker's plan for world destruction-before time is up. But it's not just the clock that's against them... The tide is turning and they're about to face their most deadly challenge yet. If you could be a hero, would you DARE? Seven Signs. Two days left to save the world.

Mac's mother is dying of cancer. Mac attempts to make friends and settle into school life. His promise to swim with his mother and the dolphins becomes an insurmountable nightmare. Help comes from an unexpected source. Some coarse language. Usually read by students in Years 9, 10 or above.

A collection of ten gripping short stories about fear and hope. A boy helps his sister by disguising her birthmark on her first day of school. A seventeen-year-old awakens to find himself trapped in an elderly body. A teenage girl discovers her boyfriend has a life-threatening virus the day after they share their first kiss. A high school student tries to communicate to his hospitalised brother who is in a vegetative state. Brian Falkner serves up bite-sized tales of fear - fear of rejection, fear of dying, fear of disease, fear of the unknown, fear of exclusion, fear of being caught and fear of embarrassment - showing how that stubborn seed of hope hungers our darkest moments.

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

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

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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Carter and Sadie Kane face the impossible task of defeating Apophis, the serpent of chaos, before he can destroy the mortal world. Unfortunately the magicians of the House of Life are on the brink civil war, the Gods are divided, and the young initiates of Brooklyn House stand almost alone against the forces of chaos. Percy Jackson fought Greek Gods. Now the Gods of Egypt are waking in the modern world . . .

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

Any 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.

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

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

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

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

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 her best friend's sister is snatched, Rae is determined to find answers. She travels to the royal court and unexpectedly begins serving the new princess. This alliance draws her deep into a dangerous quest for answers about the Snatchers. As each strand of the web is unravelled, Rae slips further into danger.

The second story of Felix and Zelda. They have escaped from the Nazis but now must survive the many people ready to hand them over for a reward. Thanks to the courage of a kind, brave woman they are able to hide for a time in the open, but Felix knows he has a distinguishing feature that identifies him as a Jew.

When Theodora is fourteen, her father has a mysterious vision and leaves his family to live with his first wife. Theodora's grandfather is a Holocaust survivor. Complex themes, past and present tensions tell the story of a family falling apart. Usually read by students in Years 9, 10 and above.

A high stakes murder trial includes a perfect murder, a faceless witness and thirteen year old Theodore as the only person who knows the whole truth.

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 Theodore's best friend, April, goes missing in the middle of the night, fear ripples through the town. The police run out of leads and Theo uses his legal and investigative mind to track her down.

Big trouble is brewing for Theodore Boone. While all of Strattenburg anxiously awaits the new trial of infamous murder suspect Pete Duffy, problems arise for their own kid lawyer. There's been a robbery and Theo is the accused. His reputation is on the line and, with the evidence building against him and dangerous threats looming, Theo will do whatever it takes to prove his innocence. Even if it means breaking a few rules.

Theodore Boone is back in action. All of Strattenburg sits divided over a hot political and environmental issue and Theo finds himself right in the thick of it. The county commission is fighting hard to change the landscape of the town and Theo is strongly opposed to the plans. But, when he uncovers corruption beneath the surface, no one, not even Theo, is prepared for the risks and potential harm. Torn between his conscience and the law, Theo will do whatever it takes to stand up for what is right.

On a field trip to Washington, DC, Theo spots a familiar face on the Metro. He sees accused murderer and fugitive Pete Duffy, who jumped bail and was never seen again. Theo's quick thinking helps bring Duffy back to Strattenburg to stand trial. But, now that Duffy knows who he is, Theo is in greater danger than he's ever been in before. Even when everything is on the line, Theodore Boone will stop at nothing to make sure a killer is brought to justice.

Thirteen year old Theodore Boone knows every judge, police officer and court clerk in Strattenburg. But, even a future star lawyer like Theo has to deal with statewide, standardised testing. When an anonymous tip leads the school board to investigate a suspicious increase in scores at another local middle school, Theo finds himself thrust in the middle of a cheating scandal. With insider knowledge and his future on the line, Theo must follow his keen instincts to do what's right.

It is Theodore's first year at high school. After a successful primary school career, he now finds himself considered a dork, amongst other things. Through some spectacularly unfortunate experiences, Theodore learns a lot about friendship and himself.

In 1880, Henricke Nelsen, a Swedish migrant, was put on trial and gaoled for vagrancy after hiding for fourteen years in the mountain ranges of Victoria. While in gaol, Nelson wrote his diary describing his life in Sweden, his migration to Australia and the personalities he met along the way. This is a captivating reconstruction of Nelsen's solitary life as told in his prison diary.

In 1942, at the order of President Franklin D. Roosevelt, every person of Japanese descent on the west coast was rounded up and shipped to one of ten ""relocation centers,"" hundreds or thousands of miles from home, where they would be held for years under armed guard. They Called Us Enemy is George Takei's firsthand account of those years behind barbed wire, the joys and terrors of growing up under legalized racism, his mother's hard choices, his father's faith in democracy, and the way those experiences planted the seeds for his astonishing future. What does it mean to be American? Who gets to decide? When the world is against you, what can one person do?

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

Blamed for the death of his mother, carrying a terrible secret from Grade 5 and in trouble with the police, Clem is now in a school for toxic teenagers. Encouraged to write Clem goes deep into the trauma that has defined his life. Issues of bullying, child abuse, family dysfunction, drugs, grief. Street language used in context.

In the past, thousands of Aboriginal children were forcibly removed from their parents as part of Australian government policies over many decades. Families and communities were fractured and torn apart by those policies.

When Kara was six, her mother was convicted of witchcraft. Kara and her brother, Taff, are still shunned by the villagers who believe that the only thing more evil than magic is the mysterious forest, the Thickety. When an unusual bird lures Kara into the forbidden forest, she discovers a strange book with unspeakable powers, which might have belonged to her mother. Includes supernatural themes of magic, witchcraft and some violence.

Kara and her brother Taff must find the hidden pieces of Princess Evangeline's grimoire to defeat Rygoth and her army of witches in one last good versus evil battle.They will travel through time with an old enemy, come face-to-face with the creatures that guard the grimoire's pages, and unravel a king's dangerous secret, before one final battle against the Spider Queen. But can Kara save the people she loves and cast a spell that could change magic forever?

The sequel to A path begins continues the story of Kara and Taff who escape their village by riding into the forbidden forest. The dangers of the Thickety are many. The plants are deadly, strange animals whisper among the trees and unknown magic lurks behind every twist of the path. But, more dangerous still, is Sordyr, the forest demon, who pursues them. Supernatural themes of magic, witchcraft and some violence.

Kara and Taff know that only Grace Stone has the power to reverse her Last Spell on their father and that, in order to save him, they have to first rescue their foe from the Well of Witches. Forgiving Grace should be the hardest part of their journey but the children are confronted by creatures called the Faceless, mysteries as old as magic, and an ancient secret that threatens their very lives. Back in the World, a war against magic is brewing that endangers everyone they care about. Includes supernatural themes of magic, witchcraft and some violence.

Two orphaned children head for Venice, the place of their mother's wondrous stories. They team up with a gang of homeless children and end up on a quest for a magical roundabout.

After her best friend, Franny, dies in a drowning accident, Suzy is convinced that the true cause of the tragedy must have been a rare jellyfish sting. Franny was a strong swimmer and there must be a reason. Retreating into a silent world of grief and imagination, Suzy crafts a plan to prove her theory, even if it means traveling the globe alone. Suzy's achingly heartfelt journey explores life, death, the astonishing wonder of the universe, and the potential for love and hope right next door.

After losing her best friend, Piper Rhodes changes schools, determined that she and her final year will be different. Then, she meets West, the school captain and star soccer player. Despite Piper's fear of losing everything again, they fall in love, without Piper ever speaking one word to him. She suffers from anxiety, specifically Selective Mutism, an inability to speak to anyone outside her immediate family. A terrible accident forces Piper to confront some big decisions. A mature read, usually read by students in Years 9, 10 or above.

It's the early 1990s and all Gemma can think about is looking perfect for her first school formal. Gemma's brother Billy - New York's up and coming hair and make-up artist - has made her the ultimate promise: he's returning home especially to 'create magic' on her and two friends for their end-of-year formal. Gemma's best friend, Andrea, is convinced it'll be their moment to shine; Gemma hopes it's the night Ralph will finally notice her.But when Billy arrives home from New York, Gemma's life becomes complicated. Her family's been keeping secrets; friendships are forged and broken; and suddenly the length of her formal dress is the least of her worries. Usually read by students in Years 9, 10 or above.

For centuries, the citizens of Velle have waited for their New Maiden to return. The prophecy states she will appear as the third daughter of a third daughter. When the fabled child is finally born to Velle's reigning queen all rejoice except for Elodie, the queen's eldest child, who has lost her claim to the crown. The only way for Elodie to protect Velle is to retake the throne. To do so, she must debilitate the Third Daughter - her youngest sister, Brianne. Desperate, Elodie purchases a sleeping potion from Sabine, who sells sadness. But the apothecary mistakenly sends the princess away with a vial of tears instead of a harmless sleeping brew. Sabine's sadness is dangerously powerful, and Brianne slips into a slumber from which she will not wake. With the fates of their families and country hanging in the balance, Sabine and Elodie hurry to revive the Third Daughter while a slow-burning attraction between the two girls erupts in full force.

Harry Pigg, the only surviving brother from the Big Bad Wolf attacks, has set up business as a private in Grimmtown, only things aren't going too well. Down on his luck, with bills to pay and no clients in sight the outlook is poor. But then in walks local businessman Aladdin who needs someone to help him track down an old lamp.

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.

Fourteen year old Karanda Hooke doesn't need anybody or anything. On her way to her sixth foster home, a crash leaves her stranded in the outback, with only a backpack, a bottle of water and a stained picture of the mother she hasn't seen in years. This is her chance to escape her old life. There's only one thing in her way. Eight year old Solomon, a fellow foster child, who was also in the car.

Thirteen short stories about being thirteen years old written by thirteen different authors. Includes spoilt birthday parties, peer pressure, embarrassing parents, finding your identity and being true to yourself.

Stories of ghostly fiction. Usually read by students in Years 9, 10 or above.

In this tooth-rotting adventure, Cass's mum has been kidnapped by the evil dessert chef and chocolatier, Senor Hugo. The ransom...the legendary tuning fork. Can Cass and Max-Ernest find the magical instrument before it's too late. Will they discover the evil secret ingredient to Senor Hugo's chocolate success. If you're tempted, take a taste, but just remember...this book is not good for you.

A run-down camp in the woods with no phone reception and 10 students with untested powers- what could possibly go wrong? Something is definitely not right at Camp Buttress and who is the ghost that keeps appearing and what is he trying to tell them? Fionn, Celine and their friends together with their teachers try to solve the mystery- and survive.

Sixteen-year-old Nate McKee is doing his best to be invisible. He's worried about a lot of things: how his dad treats Nance and his twin half-brothers; the hydro crop in his bedroom; his reckless friend, Merrick. Nate hangs out at the local youth centre and fills his notebooks with things he can't say. But when some of his pages are stolen, and his words are graffitied at the centre, Nate realises he has allies. He might be able to make a difference, change his life, and claim his future. Or can he? This is How We Change the Ending is raw and real, funny and heartbreaking - a story about what it takes to fight back when you're not a hero. Usually read by students in years 9, 10 and above.

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

Cass may be in grave danger. She's eaten the dreaded time travel chocolate. I won't even begin to tell you what trouble this delicacy has caused in the past. If only Cass could leave the past behind but it appears she is literally stuck in it. Meanwhile, Max-Ernest is worried for his best friend. Can our expert hypochondriac diagnose Cass's condition before it's too late and will he have what it takes to save the survivalist.

In 1818 Geneva, men built with clockwork parts live hidden away from society, cared for only by illegal mechanics called Shadow Boys. Two years ago, Shadow Boy Alasdair Finch's life shattered to bits. His brother, Oliver - dead. His sweetheart, Mary - gone. His chance to break free of Geneva -lost. Heart-broken and desperate, Alasdair does the unthinkable: He brings Oliver back from the dead. But putting back together a broken life is more difficult than mending bones and adding clockwork pieces. Oliver returns more monster than man, and Alasdair's horror further damages the already troubled relationship. Then comes the publication of Frankenstein and the city intensifies its search for Shadow Boys, aiming to discover the real life doctor and his monster. Alasdair finds refuge with his idol, the brilliant Dr. Geisler, who may offer him a way to escape the dangerous present and his guilt-ridden past, but at a horrible price only Oliver can pay...

When a lone soldier, Cole, arrives with news of Lachlan Agatta's death, all hope seems lost for Catarina. Her father was the world's leading geneticist, and humanity's best hope of beating a devastating virus. Then, hidden beneath Cole's genehacked enhancements she finds a message of hope: Lachlan created a vaccine. Only she can find and decrypt it, if she can unravel the clues he left for her. The closer she gets, the more she finds herself at risk from Cartaxus, a shadowy organisation with a stranglehold on the world's genetic tech. But it's too late to turn back. There are three billion lives at stake, two people who can save them, and one final secret that Cat must unlock. A secret that will change everything. Usually read by students in Years 9, 10 or above.

Sixteen-year-old Sofie is a dreamer, an artist and a romantic. So when she goes on exchange to Paris, she is expecting magnificent adventures of the heart and mind. Yet France isn't what she imagined. Her host sister, Delphine and fellow artist Olivier show her a different side of Paris and Sofie starts to question her ideas of art, beauty and meaning. What can one girl do? Will Sofie be able to find the courage to fight for change?

When Briseis's aunt dies and wills her a dilapidated estate in rural New York, Bri and her parents decide to leave Brooklyn behind for the summer. Hopefully there, surrounded by plants and flowers, Bri will finally learn to control her gift. But their new home is sinister in ways they could never have imagined - it comes with a specific set of instructions, an old-school apothecary, and a walled garden filled with the deadliest botanicals in the world that can only be entered by those who share Bri's unique family lineage.

The festive season isn't always happy for Tori Spring and her brother Charlie. And this year's going to be harder than most. "I used to think that difficult was better than boring, but I know better now - I'm not going to think about the past few months, about Charlie and me, and all of the sad. I'm going to block it all out Just for today."Happy Christmas, " I say." Usually read by students in years 9, 10 and above.

Thomas Edison created the incandescent light bulb and illuminated the world with electricity. That was just one of his many groundbreaking inventions which changed entertainment, industry and everyday life. From a lonely, inquisitive boy who carried out lots of experiments, he became an enterprising and imaginative inventor.

One of the great thinkers of all time, Thomas Jefferson helped shape America in its early years. He was the third President of the United States and is famous for writing the Declaration of Independence. He was also a scientist, inventor, farming pioneer and educator.

Beck, short for Beethoven, is the son of world famous ex-pianist Ida Magdalena Keverich. A stroke has left her without the ability to play, and so she places all her hopes, expectations, and efforts into turning her son into a musical prodigy. To Beck this has meant a life of emotional and physical neglect. He has no fitting clothes and struggles to find food to feed his younger sister. Beck's mother, the maestro, has a violent temper and Beck often comes to school with bruises and other signs of injury. In meeting August, a girl from his school, who is in many ways his exact opposite, Beck learns that life and music do not have to entail the suffering he is used to. Usually read by students in Years 9, 10 or above.

Sixteen year old Sunday Balewo is next in line for the presidency of Zantuga. When his father and mother are killed in an explosion, Sunday finds himself on the run from the unlikeliest of assassins, a baboon with a bomb.

In every generation on the island of Fennbirn, a set of triplets is born: three queens, all equal heirs to the crown and each possessor of a coveted magic. Mirabella is a fierce elemental, able to spark hungry flames or vicious storms at the snap of her fingers. Katharine is a poisoner, one who can ingest the deadliest poisons without so much as a stomachache. Arsinoe, a naturalist, is said to have the ability to bloom the reddest rose and control the fiercest of lions. But becoming the Queen Crowned isn't solely a matter of royal birth. Each sister has to fight for it. And it's not just a game of win or lose - it's life or death. The night the sisters turn sixteen, the battle begins.

Three books in one - The French confection, The blurred man, I know what you did last Wednesday.

Follow the lives of two school friends who choose to follow different paths through life. The story begins in rural Australia in 1959 and moves into the past and the future. Ruth's undeclared love for an elusive and mysterious boy shapes her entire lifetime. Usually read by students in Years 9, 10 or above.

Liv's older brother needs round-the-clock care after accidentally shooting himself. Liv knows Jonah is still inside his broken body, but she might just be the only person to see that. Jonah's injury changed a lot for their family. Everyone had to change bedrooms. Liv and Jonah's mum is suing Jonah's best friend Clay's parents. And Live hasn't spoken to Clay since the accident, even though he just lives across the street. Liv won't give up, though - not on Jonah, and not on Clay. Usually read by students in years 9, 10 and above.

A disturbing but insightful collection of views from Israeli and Palestinian children, young adults who are surrounded by war. With honesty, they describe their life, families and feelings about the conflict and violence, and their hopes for the future. Usually read by students in Years 9, 10 and above.

Any two books from this series may be read as Challenge books and up to five more can be read as personal choice books. Go to the online booklists for the PRC ID of the individual books in this series.

A collection of three hauntingly beautiful novellas. In the most harrowing of times, it takes a ferocious strength not only to survive but to stand up for those who cannot fight their own battles. The characters in these stories face impossible missions, and the hardest of all may be protecting the last flicker of hope in a seemingly endless night. Usually read by students in years 9, 10, or above.

Lucy, her little brother and their puppy follow a golden-eyed Tiger into a secret tunnel to a country where strange, bizarre and violent things happen. They try to help the enslaved children of the evil military junta without falling victim to it too.

A combat submarine is the secret weapon used by the heir to a shipping empire to rescue refugees in the Coral Sea when they are attacked by pirates.

It's been a year since Rowan went off-grid. Hunted by the Scythedom, he has become an urban legend, a vigilante snuffing out corrupt scythes in a trial by fire. Citra, meanwhile, is forging her path as Scythe Anastasia, gleaning with compassion. However, conflict within the Scythedom is growing by the day, and when Citra's life is threatened, it becomes clear that there is a truly terrifying plot afoot. The Thunderhead observes everything, and it does not like what it sees. Will it intervene? Or will it simply watch as this perfect world begins to unravel? Usually read by students in years 9, 10 and above.

Lara is devastated over the loss of her mother and escapes to the hills to meet her only friend, a wild dog, called Thunderwith.

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

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

The ancient Canzghen Temple is destroyed, its secret scrolls stolen and all the warrior monks are dead except for the five youngest. Tiger is one monk who was trained in violence, in tiger-style Kung Fu. He works to reclaim the secret dragon scroll.

Wen Zhou is told she's lucky. Lucky to be living in Australia. Wen doesn't feel lucky when her dad doesn't let her go to birthday parties and controls everything she and her mum do. Her salvation is her close friend Henry. However when tragedy strikes Henry's family, how will Wen find a way to support him, whilst still achieving her own dreams.

A Magical story about a brave young chimney sweep and a majestic tiger. A story about a mesmerising ruby and a magical land across an ocean. A story about discovering your destiny and what it means to be free.

In Java in the fourteenth century, the villagers are fearful of Mbah Merapi, the rumbling volcano that overshadows their lives. Kancil, the lowliest kitchen servant, knows the real danger is human but she is fatherless and mute. She will lose everything if her identity is revealed. But, Kancil must warn the villagers of the danger they are facing.

Java is the setting for this story about an Indonesian family and an old mystery surrounding Nick's grandmother.

A very ordinary boy. Nobody noticed him, he was just like everyone else. But Fred knew he was different. He just didn't know quite how different. And when he did.... Well, what then?

Adam is assistant manager at his parents holiday park, where, after the death of his grandfather, his grandmother has started scaring off the visitors and his parents have started fighting. Once he stops getting into embarrassing situations involving public nudity and work out what's so funny about two tigers on a beach, then maybe he can hope to figure out Samantha.

In a post-apocalyptic world of rigid rules, Althea's luxurious life is turned upside-down when she is kidnapped by the dreaded Variants, genetically evolved mutants who can travel through space at will. Betrayed by those she trusts most, Althea is forced to question everything she thought she knew, including who she is and what she's capable of. Althea must separate deception from truth to claim her own power.

Hermux, a watchmaker and an unlikely hero, finds himself in a world of danger and intrigue.

My dad died twice. Once when he was thirty nine and again, four years later, when he was twelve. The first time had nothing to do with me. The second time definitely did. When Al Chaudhury discovers his late dad's time machine, he finds that going back to the 1980s requires daring and imagination. It also requires lies, theft, burglary and setting his school on fire. All without losing his pet hamster, Alan Shearer.

Rebecca Tobler 09/23 In the scorching summer of 2033, Gilbert Black is accused of being a firebug, just like his mother was thirteen years previously. That night a fire starts on his family's farm. A fire with a tunnel in the centre of it. And that's when things start to get really weird. Pulled repeatedly back and forth through time, Gil finds himself at all the big Australian bushfires from the last two centuries. He searches across the years, determined to unlock the secret to his family's legacy. Gil can't change the past, but can he learn from it in time to return home and save his family from the biggest inferno ever known.

Liam O'Connor should have died at sea in 1912. Maddy Carter should have died on a plane in 2010. Sal Vikram should have died in a fire in 2029. Yet, moments before death, someone mysteriously appeared to save them. But, Liam, Maddy and Sal aren't rescued. They are recruited by an agency that no one knows exists, and with only one purpose, to fix broken history.

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.

Hunted by cyborg assassins from the future, the TimeRiders must abandon New York and go on the run. They escape to Victorian London and the streets where Jack the Ripper roams. But, before they can establish their new base, they make their most shattering discovery yet and it will change everything.

When Maddy mistakenly opens a time window where and when she shouldn't have, Liam is marooned sixty-five million years ago in the hunting ground of a deadly and, until now, undiscovered species of predator. Can Liam make contact with Maddy and Sal before he's torn to pieces by dinosaurs, and without endangering history so much that the world is overtaken by a terrifying new reality?

Project Exodus, a mission to transport about three hundred Americans from 2070 to 54AD to overthrow the Roman Empire, has gone catastrophically wrong. Half have arrived seventeen years earlier, during the reign of Caligula. Liam, Maddy and Sal become trapped in the Roman past and armed with knowledge of the future, Caligula is now more powerful than ever. The TimeRiders must make it back to 2001 and put history right.

The latest mission for the TimeRiders takes them back in time to Sherwood Forest in 1193 where they discover a terrible threat for the future.

The TimeRiders are in the middle of the American Civil War. When Abraham Lincoln follows Liam to the present day, it's up to Maddy to persuade two warring colonels to cease fire long enough for the team to come up with a way of stitching time back together.

Soldier Otto Hundebis defies Death but walks a dangerous path. A half beast half man gives him shoes and dice which lead him deep into a web of dark magic and mystery. He meets the beautiful Safire, pure of heart and spirit, the scheming Mistress Jabber and the terrifying Lady of the Nail. He learns the powers of the tinderbox and the wolves, whose master he becomes. Usually read by students in Years 9, 10 or above.

Gigi, Bette, and June, three top students at an exclusive Manhattan ballet school, have seen their fair share of drama. Free-spirited new girl Gigi just wants to dance but the very act might kill her. Privileged New Yorker Bette's desire to escape the shadow of her ballet-star sister brings out a dangerous edge in her. And perfectionist June needs to land a lead role this year or her controlling mother will put an end to her dancing dreams forever. When every dancer is both friend and foe, the girls will sacrifice, manipulate, and backstab to be the best of the best. Usually read by students in years 9, 10 and above.

Mia is an ordinary Tiwi girl living at Purnalli outstation with her family - her little tribe. When she tries to fit in with the wrong kids at school, she ends up suspended. Mia's nanna helps her see how to choose what's best for her future. What will the future bring for Mia?

Sixteen-year-old Lara Jean Song keeps her love letters in a hatbox her mother gave her. They aren't love letters that anyone else wrote for her; these are ones she's written. One for every boy she's ever loved -- five in total. When she writes, she pours out her heart and soul and says all the things she would never say in real life, because her letters are for her eyes only. Until the day her secret letters are mailed, and suddenly, Lara Jean's love life goes from imaginary to out of control.

Adam hears the tales of bravery even before the war broke out. As many did in that time he wanted to be a part of the war, not for the glory but as part of the Merchant Navy. The sea is his home and thus contains the highs and lows of any home. We follow Adam through real storms at sea along with political ones not of his making. Tempered by the sea he learns the value of trust and the friends that trust is found in and through.

As Lisa and Sol board the luxury ship MS St Louis in Hamburg Germany, they know they are heading for a safer place; a place where Jews don't have to wear a star or sit on a yellow bench. The passengers are optimistic for their fresh start in Cuba, but Hitler's propaganda has reached the country before them. The mood of the passengers darkens as their fate becomes less certain.

In the 1930s in Alabama, a black man is charged with the rape of a white girl. The explosion of racial hatred that follows is viewed through the young eyes of Scout and Jem Finch, whose father, Atticus, defends the man. The conscience of a town, steeped in prejudice, violence and hypocrisy, is pricked by Atticus' stamina as he struggles for justice. Some adult themes; usually read by students in Years 9, 10 or above.

It is 1942 and the world is at war. Sixteen year old Nancy Clancy is sent to Malaya to bring home her sister-in-law, Moira, and baby Gavin. Nancy's brother, Ben, is a soldier there. When Malaya is invaded, they are fortunate to escape but their ship is bombed, and they are stranded on an island where other colonial women are captured. The nightmare and horror of internment in a Japanese camp begins. Based on true events. Includes some violence and confronting tragedies.

All his life, Jose has seen the tall ships sailing into Port Louis on the island of Mauritius, where he was born. As he watches them leave again, disappearing below the horizon, he dreams of one day sailing away with them - to see the world. He thinks about all the adventures he would have, the ships he would capture and the buried treasure he would find on faraway islands. But, when the Uranie arrives in 1817, Jose's life changes in ways that he had never imagined. Pirates, cannibals, storms and shipwrecks become harsh realities and Jose is forced to muster all his courage and intelligence to survive the dangers of shipboard life.

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

Contains historical and informative stories of various expeditions to Mount Everest. Many colour prints are incorporated into this rewarding and fascinating book.

The inspiring story of the Australian soldiers who held Tobruk in the Second World War. Even tanks and bombers could not conquer the spirit of these diggers. An illustrated, accurate and human account of the war and the people involved. It gives a face and personality to both the famous and powerful, and the brave foot soldiers. Very strong language used in context. A mature read that is not for the faint-hearted. Usually read by students in years 9, 10 and above.

Toby Lolness may be only one and a half millimetres tall but he is involved in a huge and harrowing fight for his life and the safety of his family. A thrilling tale of state control, betrayal, cruelty, heroism, friendship and survival in a violent, miniature world that is not for the faint-hearted. Usually read by students in Years 9, 10 or above.

Toby's world is under greater threat than ever before. A giant crater has been dug right into the centre of the Tree, moss and lichen invade the branches, and one tyrant controls it all. Leo Blue, once Toby's best friend, now his worst enemy, is holding Elisha prisoner and mercilessly hunting the Grass People. But returning after several years among the Grass People, Toby will fight back. And this time, he's not alone. Usually read by students in years 9, 10 and above.

Izumi Tanaka has never really felt like she fit in--it isn't easy being Japanese American in her small, mostly white, northern California town. Raised by a single mother, it's always been Izumi--or Izzy, because "It's easier this way"--and her mom (and her trusty terrier sidekick, Tamagotchi) against the world. But then Izzy discovers a clue to her previously unknown father's identity...and he's none other than the Crown Prince of Japan. Which means outspoken, irreverent Izzy is literally a princess.

An exciting resource for fans seeking the inspirational source of Tolkien's beasts, flora and fauna.

t's been three years since Rowan and Citra disappeared; since Scythe Goddard came into power; since the Thunderhead closed itself off to everyone but Grayson Tolliver. In this pulse-pounding finale to Neal Shusterman's internationally bestselling trilogy, constitutions are tested and old friends are brought back from the dead. Usually read by students in years 9, 10, or above.

In 1834, six Dorset farm labourers were sentenced to seven years transportation to Australia. Their crime, setting up a friendly society to bargain for better wages to escape appalling poverty. The true story of the youngest Tolpuddle martyr, James Brine.

Chimney sweep, Tom Appleby, eight, is convicted of stealing and deported to Botany Bay on The First Fleet. The country seems to have little to offer. Set between the harsh early Sydney life of 1788 and the 19th century impoverishment of 1868.

Dumb things become important when you're old, that's what Tom reckons. While living in a guarded, gated community, he meets Cleo, the snake charmer. They break out together to discover things such as a bull that hasn't yet become a hamburger.

Tom finds a wonderful garden that only appears when the clock strikes thirteen.

Two treasures have been found, with time running out. Marco betrayed his friends and ancient secrets are coming unravelled. The Select don't know who to trust or where to turn, but they must fight on. Jack, Aly and Cass race to the next stop on their quest, the Mausoleum at Halicarnassus, where they have to face their own demons and engage in an epic battle with shadows of the dead.

Tenar, chosen as the high priestess to the ancient and nameless powers of the earth, is now known as Arha, the Eaten One. It is her rightful duty to defend the labyrinth tombs of Atuan but when Ged Sparrowhawk comes to steal their greatest treasure, the ring of Erreth-Akbe, his tales of magic and a brighter world seduce Tenar into risking everything to escape. Usually read by students in Years 9, 10 or above.

Three young New Zealanders discover a series of coded transmissions from their own future selves - a set of lottery numbers, circuit diagrams for a transmitter and ominous warnings about a 'Chimera Project'. This project is a scientific experiment gone wrong that produces deadly organisms designed to detect and kill all human life.

The first book in the Tomorrow series. A group of teenagers return from a camping trip to find their town invaded and their parents imprisoned. They must mature quickly, deal with teenage angst and become combative to ensure their own survival. Usually read by students in Years 9, 10 or above.

Sixteen short and very varied stories from modern fairy tales, comic essays and complex tales using poetic language. Mature themes and fantastic endings make for some great reads. Strong language used in context might offend some readers. Usually read by students in years 9, 10 and above.

The suffering, loss and futility of war are shown through the intensity of one child's experiences of the outbreak of the Spanish civil war when grandfather, Antonito, recalls his life.

A collection of eleven tales from the land of Tortall, featuring both previously unknown characters and old friends.

To find freedom, you must leave behind everything you've ever known. It is 2011. You want nothing more than to be a journalist in Somalia like your aunty. But the truth can be dangerous - and when you and your little sister are left alone, you find yourself facing life-and-death choices at every turn. Can you escape a terrorist organisation and find a safe place to call home? You'll be asked to cross a desert on foot, hide below deck in a leaky boat, and put your life in the hands of people smugglers. At every turn, the choice is yours. How far will you go for freedom?

Stories of children famous for their talent, fortunes, protests, rebellion, prayers, heroism or just for hanging on through oppression and war, such as a young Genghis Khan, a seventeen year old maths professor, the wolf girls and a chess genius.

Discovered picking pockets at Coxford Corn Market, fourteen year old Sin is hunted across the city. Caught by the enigmatic Eldritch Moons, Sin is offered a way out of his life of crime: join the Covert Operations Group (COG) and train to become a spy. At Lenheim Palace, Sin learns spy craft while trying not to break the Cast-Iron Rules of the school. Befriended by eccentric Zonda Chubb, together they endeavour to unmask a traitor causing havoc within the palace. After an assassination attempt on the founder of COG, Sin realises that someone closest to him could be the traitor. With no other option, Sin is forced into an uneasy alliance with the school bully, Velvet Von Darque. But can he trust her? And will COG try to bury him with the secrets he discovers? Secrets, spies and steampunk gadgets abound in this fantastic adventure story.

Three friends are living on a heap of trash, a lifetime of sifting rubbish. One day they find something extraordinary. From that moment on they are hunted without mercy. But they can't run forever. The reality of a slum society in the modern world combined with an action packed mystery.

A young boy is rescued from a disaster at sea and joins his father searching for treasure near an Indonesian island. His story is interwoven with that of Diego who is travelling on a 16th century Portuguese treasure ship.

Tikko knows that one day she'll be a rift-guide like her brothers and sisters - but does it have to be so soon? Lord Eustachio Doro is not even sure that he wants to explore other worlds, as his family has always done. Find out if these two intriguing characters win glory and do their families proud or fall headlong into disaster.

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

A thrilling story of Triss, a young squirrelmaid. She escapes a life of misery as a servant to the tyrannical ruling ferret family in Riftgard and sets off to find her way to the Abbey of Redwall.

From the brilliantly bent imagination of Guillermo del Toro and Daniel Kraus comes a ripsnorter of an adventure. Jim Sturges is a typical teen, with an embarrassingly overprotective dad, a best mate called 'Tubby' and a huge crush on a girl who doesn't seem to know he exists. Until the day a 45 year old mystery resurfaces to threaten the lives of everyone in his apparently sleepy town. Children are going missing again, and it is up to Jim Jnr to team up with a band of unlikely heroes to battle the monsters of the night. Monsters with very dangerous appetites. Usually read by students in Years 9, 10 or above.

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

Under the floorboards of the Store is a world of four-inch-tall nomes that humans never see. It is commonly known among these nomes that Arnold Bros. created the Store for them to live in, and he declared: "Everything Under One Roof." Therefore there can be no such thing as Outside. It just makes sense. That is, until the day a group of nomes arrives on a truck, claiming to be from Outside, talking about Day and Night and Snow and other crazy legends. And they soon uncover devastating news: The Store is about to be demolished. It's up to Masklin, one of the Outside nomes, to devise a daring escape plan that will forever change the nomes' vision of the world. . .

Suitable for mature readers. Deals with selective mutism as a result of violence which is never shown directly. Handled well. Three unique and very different children learn to appreciate one another and the abilities each possesses, which leads to them being able to deal with a frighteningly adult issue.

After a catastrophic attempt to ask out his crush, Nelson is desperate for any chance to escape the daily humiliations of his small-town high school. And with his parents taking over a nearby ski lodge, that chance seems to have arrived. At the snow, Nelson discovers a whole new freedom in a world where nobody knows he's a loser. Now he can be whoever he wants to be... But reinvention is complicated, especially when a few white lies land Nelson in the middle of an unexpected love triangle and on a path towards certain embarrassment.

Adam Gilchrist is one of the greatest wicketkeepers in cricket history. He grew up in NSW, played State cricket for Perth, loved the Adelaide oval the most and finished his cricket career in India.

Deserts are some of the wildest, most inhospitable places on Earth. Read the true stories about those whose quests and dreams resulted in heroism, bravery and, sometimes, death.

A collection of true adventure stories on the dizzying peaks of the world's tallest mountain. Contains the true life stories of extreme cold, danger and exploration including the first expedition of Everest and stories of tragedy on the slopes.

A spine-tingling collection of true stories exploring the supernatural world of spooks and spirits. Contains the true-life stories of restless souls, including the woman who came back to haunt her killer and encounters in the most haunted house in England. A great read and ideal for reluctant readers.

A gripping collection of true stories of exploration and danger over the icy wastelands of Antarctica. Includes the fated expedition of Captain Scott and Ernest Shackleton's epic trek across the snow to save his crew trapped in the polar ice. A great read and ideal for reluctant readers.

Eleven thrilling, true stories of the world-shaping events of June 1944. Contains real life tales of courage and bravery during the struggle for the beaches of Normandy, from tank commanders to paratroopers, commando raiders to French Resistance fighters.

A riveting collection of true stories exploring the shadowy underworld of organised, and not so organised, crime. Contains stories of famous gangsters from Al Capone's reign of terror over Chicago to the last stand of Ned Kelly in the Australian bush. A great read and ideal for reluctant readers.

Thirteen thrilling true stories of courage and heroism. From firefighters battling a blazing nuclear reactor to one housewife's brave defiance of the Gestapo, this book contains inspiring tales of extraordinary courage from everyday people.

Incredible but true tales of the high seas, from the first pirates at the time of the Greeks and the Romans, to the years when pirates truly ruled the seas. Contains stories of hardship and brutality, bringing to life the flamboyant characters of the most famous captains and the men who set out to capture them.

A thrilling collection of true stories about the Blitz of 1940, for modern young readers. Recounts the fascinating stories of ordinary Londoners who experienced the Blitz, including firefighters, fighter pilots and children evacuated far from their families.

Short stories examining the mysteries, misconceptions, tragedies and the personal costs of the First World War. A well-written book giving young readers a sense of the past in the context of one of the bloodiest battles ever fought. A great read and ideal for reluctant readers.

Epic naval encounters between titanic warships, monumental battles involving hundreds of thousands of men and duels between lone snipers facing almost certain death. Dramatic and real life tales examine the tragedies and personal costs of the Second World War. For those who survived, it would remain the most intense and vivid experience of their lives.

The life of a Romani family living in squalor in an abandoned shack. Lilli is removed from her large family by a wealthy old woman who helps to civilise her. But, there's an ongoing battle seemingly for possession of Lilli's very soul. Usually read by students in Years 9, 10 or above.

Spit, the barefoot grandson of old Fyfe, has other ideas for his future after his grandfather dies and the town wants Spit to go into an orphanage. Usually read by students in Years 9, 10 or above.

From shark attacks and blazing airships to exploding spacecraft and sinking submarines, these are real life stories of people who have stared death in the face and lived to tell the tale.

Best friends have become enemies. Lovers have become strangers. And deciding whose side you're on could be the difference between life and death. For Eve and Lemon, discovering the truth about themselves - and each other - was too much for their friendship to take. But with the country on the brink of a new world war - this time between the BioMaas swarm at CityHive and Daedalus's army at Megopolis - loyalties will be pushed to the brink, unlikely alliances will form and with them, betrayals. Usually read by students in years 9, 10, or above

An assortment of short stories and poems from 50 Australian authors, poets and illustrators. The contents are sorted by genre so, as the mood takes you, dip into adventure, horror, romance, crime, thriller, fantasy, science fiction, humour, historical or poetry. Try something new and discover an author, poet or writing style that you may not have considered before.

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

Did you know that a toy spaceship can teach you about why prices keep rising? Or that a pooping cow can show you how to invest your pocket money? In a world of bamboozling headlines and dodgy data, it's hard to work out what's really going on. This book will show you how to develop your own truth detective skills by using the power of numbers and your own brilliant brain, asking questions and always being curious.

At an embarrassing stage of life, Dominic is burdened with a worrying mother, a father who fancies his teacher, an annoying sister and an embarrasiing friend. Dominic is practising Buddhism and resorts to emailing his estranged uncle for support.

Jack disappears down a tunnel and is turned to stone. Fairytale-loving Rose has to restore him to flesh and blood. A dark, but ultimately, liberating fantasy about sibling rivalry, stereotyping, fear and the power of love.

Dom has had it with the debt, but his second instalment is even more challenging than the first: Dom must turn off all of the Gold Coast's lights during Earth Hour. It's a race against time and he is racing for his life.

Living with anxiety and OCD is enough but when Daisy, her Best and Most Fearless Friend, brings her on a mission to find a fugitive billionaire things are about to get even more complicated. To find Russell Pickett, Aza must enter the world of his geeky, but maybe kind-of-cute son, Davis. But the chances of a first kiss, and maybe even a first love, could send Aza into a spiral of anxiety... A perfect coming-of-age novel filled with love, mystery and Star Wars fan-fiction. Usually read by students in years 9, 10 and above.

Howard Carter had spent five long years in the hot, dry desert, searching for the tomb of the Ancient Egyptian boy-king, Tutankhamun. But what he found when he ventured deeper and deeper into the tomb was gold and treasure beyond his wildest dreams.

Two very different men share an ambition to discover a tomb that nobody else believes is there. It takes many years to locate the burial place of the boy king and many more to uncover the treasures hidden therein.

Duke Orsino of Illyria is in love with Olivia, but his advances are rejected. A shipwrecked Viola arrives on his shores, and with the help of a Captain, disguises herself as a boy, calling herself Cesario, and enters Orsino's service. Orsino takes to Cesario, and sends 'him' to woo Olivia for him. Usually read by students in Years 9, 10 & above.

Lily's family life is in turmoil. Her uncertainty regarding her developing relationship with Dash, concerns about her infirm grandfather, her brother's homosexuality and a possible move away from New York all combine, causing Lily to give up on Christmas, usually her favourite time of year. No matter how hard Dash tries their relationship seems to be disintegrating. With a crisis of confidence Lily sees only one course of action left to her. Usually read by students in years 9, 10 and above.

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

When her mother remarries, Isabella Swan moves to sunless Forks in Washington to join her father. On her first day at school, Bella is drawn to the incredibly beautiful Edward Cullen, not knowing that he and his family are vampires. They try not to prey on humans but Bella is particularly irresistible. Bella soon realises that falling in love with a vampire can be extremely dangerous. Usually read by students in Years 9, 10 or above.

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

Set in a New York of the not-too-distant future, the sweltering, thirsty citizens attempt to cope with the extreme heat as the end of the world approaches. A female artist and her neighbour are helpless against the elements and the armed looters. But, in the Twilight Zone, there's always a twist.

Two spooky stories including one about Twist Cottage, where all the previous owners have died in mysterious circumstances, and Harriet's horrible dream, the story of Harriet who is having a nightmare and doesn't seem to be able to wake up.

Sam Khoo has one goal in life: create cool indie games. She's willing to do anything to make her dream come true - even throw away a scholarship to university. All she needs is a super-rare ticket to a game design workshop and she can kickstart her career. So when Jay Chua, aka Jerky McJerkface, sneakily grabs the last ticket, it's war. Knowing how their Australian-Malaysian community works, Sam issues him an ultimatum: put the ticket on the line in a 1v1 competition of classic video games, or she'll broadcast his duplicity to everyone. Thank you, Asian Gossip Network. Meeting in neutral locations, away from the eyes and ears of nosy aunties and uncles, Sam and Jay connect despite themselves. It's a puzzle that Sam's not sure she wants to solve. But when her dream is under threat, will she discover that there is more than one way to win?

What if you were forced to set sail for a country that didn't want you, to meet a father you couldn't remember? Thirteen-year-old Fu, his younger sister, Pei, and their mother live in a small rural community in Southern China that is already enduring harsh conditions when it is collectivised as part of Mao Zedong's Great Leap Forward campaign that ultimately led to economic disaster, widespread famine and millions of deaths. After tragedy strikes, and threatened with separation, Fu and Pei set out on a perilous journey across countries and oceans to find their father, who left for Australia almost a decade ago. With nothing to guide them but a photograph and some documents in a language they cannot read, they must draw on all their courage and tenacity just to survive - and perhaps forge a better life for themselves.

Second book in Tolkien's classic fantasy cycle, in which the Fellowship is wrenched apart. While Aragorn, Legolas and Gimli attempt to rescue the hobbits, Merry and Pippin, Frodo and Sam must journey into Sauron's desolate land of Mordor.

A script which is as funny as the book, covering the same issues of death, cancer, AIDS and love.

A young girl tells the story of her family during the Great Depression in Northern England. Usually read by students in Years 9, 10 or above.