Readers' Advisory Booklists: September 2025

In The Ruling Class by Jennifer Lynn Barnes, Tess Kendrick discovers her sister Ivy is a Washington 'fixer', someone who buries scandals for the powerful. At elite Hardwicke School, Tess becomes a fixer herself, uncovering secrets that reach Washington’s highest ranks. Fast-paced and sharp, this YA thriller is perfect for fans of intrigue and drama. Suitable for Years 8-12.

In This Season’s Draft, six teens chase AFL dreams through triumphs, heartbreak, and shifting identities. From elite draft picks to tangled relationships, each season brings new challenges on and off the field. A compelling coming-of-age story full of sport, self-discovery, and the unpredictable bounce of life. Suitable for those with a passion for AFL.

The Promised Neverland is a chilling, suspenseful manga series where orphaned children uncover a terrifying secret about their idyllic home. As they plot a daring escape, themes of trust, intelligence, and survival unfold. Perfect for fans of psychological thrillers, dark mysteries, and stories with clever protagonists and emotional depth. Suitable for Years 7-12.

In One of Us Is Lying by Karen M. McManus, five students walk into detention, only four leave alive. When Simon, the school gossip, dies mysteriously, secrets unravel and everyone’s a suspect. A gripping whodunit full of twists, lies, and high school drama. Perfect for fans of suspense and thrillers. Suitable for Years 7-12.

Matthew Reilly's The Secret Runners of New York is a fast-paced dystopian thriller where twins Skye and Red discover a hidden tunnel under Central Park that leads to a post-apocalyptic future. As they navigate elite teen society, they face a deadly mystery. Perfect for fans of page-turning thrillers, this gripping novel explores survival, loyalt,y and the dark side of privilege. Suitable for Years 9-12.

Wings of Fire by Tui T. Sutherland is an epic fantasy series where dragon tribes battle destiny, war, and prophecy. Told from shifting dragon perspectives, each book dives into thrilling adventures, deep friendships, and fierce courage. Perfect for readers who love action, magic, and richly imagined worlds. Recommended for Years 5–9.