Readers' Advisory Booklists: August 2025

When a violent storm lashes an Australian coastal town, long-buried secrets rise to the surface. A chilling discovery sparks questions of loyalty, truth, and survival. Gripping, fast-paced, and deeply emotional—perfect for older teens (Yrs 10-12) who love mystery, suspense, and stories shaped by the power of the Australian landscape and sea.

When a true-crime podcast reopens a decades-old hit-and-run in a small Australian coastal town, brothers Alex and Leo are drawn into danger. Secrets, suspense, and sibling loyalty collide in this gripping YA mystery thriller by popular YA author A.L.Tait. Danger Road is perfect for readers from Year 7 who love fast-paced fiction with a moody Australian twist.

Written by former SAS soldier Chris Ryan, this YA adventure series follows a group of skilled teens tackling global threats. Each book is a stand-alone story full of high-stakes missions, daring escapes, and clever problem-solving. Perfect for readers Year 7 and older, who love fast-paced thrillers, adventure, and heroics with an international edge.

The Hunger Games series by Suzanne Collins has regained popularity with the release of 'Sunrise on the Reaping', a prequel exploring Haymitch's Hunger Games. Fast-paced and thought-provoking, this dystopian series follows Katniss Everdeen as she fights for survival, courage and rebellion. Suitable for readers Year 7 and older.

Dive into the world of Greek gods, monsters, and modern-day heroes in this YA fantasy series. Follow Percy Jackson as he discovers his demigod identity and battles mythical threats. Full of humour, friendship, and epic quests, this series is perfect for readers from Year 5 who love action, magic, and mythology.

Stuff Happens is a series about everyday challenges boys face - friendship struggles, school stress, family expectations, rejection, and fitting in. Created by Susannah McFarlane and written by Tony Wilson, Andrew Daddo, Philip Gwynne, Will Kostakis, Oliver Phommavanh, Scot Gardner, Justin D’Ath, James Roy, Pat Flynn and Alex McDiarmid. Suitable for Year 7 students, each book features a different character tackling a relatable issue.