Books we're recommending to educators for 2026

Beth Is Dead Katie Bernet

'A sharp and addictive reimagining of Little Women, Beth is Dead pulls readers straight into the secrets of the March sisters. Katie Bernet gives the classic story a modern edge, filled with tension, wit and heart.

For classrooms, it’s a standout choice. The novel invites rich discussion on morality, sisterhood and identity, while introducing timeless themes through a fresh, relatable lens. Perfect for secondary students ready to explore how classic stories can be reworked for a new generation of readers.'

– Belinda, Children’s Publishing and Campaigns Director

Oh Brother Georgina Chadderton

'Oh Brother is a warm, funny and honest portrayal of the ups and downs of growing up. Gina’s art is vibrant and expressive and perfectly captures the nuances of living with a sibling. Gina’s relationship with her brother who is autistic is humorous, empathetic, heartfelt and will stay with you for a long time.'

– Mary, Senior Editor

Bitza 1 Andrew Daddo, Stephen Michael King

'Meet Bitza, the totally lovable mutt dog who is the voice of this brilliantly real and funny junior fiction series about a dog who needs a new family and a girl who needs a dog.

Author Andrew Daddo and illustrator Stephen Michael King pour all their heart, humour and mutual affection for the humble canine into these totally loveable characters who take us on a journey of what it really means to have a pet.'

– Heather, Commissioning Editor

Sunny and Storm Tanya Hennessy, Rachael McLean

'Sunny and Storm are nine-year-olds with a wondermonious talent for creating new words. Wrongly accused of a schoolyard crime spree, the best friends turn into detectives to clear their names! From Roald Dahl’s whizzpopping to Tanya Hennessy’s snoosplat, wordplay strengthens language skills, encourages creativity and makes reading an utter joy. Word art and illustrations radiate from every page, creating visual interest and engaging developing readers from page one.'

– Zoe, Publisher

The Drover's Son Leah Purcell, Dub Leffler

'This book has the feel of a future classic. Originally based on the Henry Lawson short story, which has been part of Leah Purcell’s life since she was five years old, and taken from the world she created for The Drover’s Wife, this brings the powerful campfire chats between Yadaka and Danny to a young audience. Perfect to spark discussions with readers ages 8+ about settlement history, the First Nations experience and the importance of role models, family and culture.'

– Michelle, Commissioning Editor

The Umbrella Niki Foreman, Binny Talib

'The author of this book, Niki, was a former Senior Editor at Penguin, and to see her advocating for neurodivergence and forging its rhetoric both in her life, in this book and through education platforms widely has been inspiring to say the least. 

The bright illustrations are honest and playful, using umbrellas as a way to turn away from "medical labels" and shine a light on the joys (and complexities) of neurodivergence. It's the perfect book for students who may be reluctant to be themselves. Most importantly, it's for anyone who's ever felt like they don't fit in, because you are not alone and you are loved.'

– Jess, Marketing Executive

The Secrets and Scandals of Melody Moss Helen Dallimore

'I would recommend The Secrets and Scandals of Melody Moss for its witty humour, clever writing and relatable storyline. It’s the second book in the Melody Moss series and follows Melody’s new high school drama. Told through her diary entries, the story is accented by approachable pull-out designs and illustrations which reel readers in and keep them hooked. It’s an easy and entertaining read and the perfect coming-of-age book that I wish I had growing up!'

– Caroline, Designer

The Lost Defenders Sam Summers

'The Lost Defenders by Sam Summers is my recommendation because it is an accessible Percy Jackson meets K-Pop Demon Hunters (without the singing!). It’s all action adventure with magic and monsters, and it’s set alongside everyday school-kid experiences. Sam Summers also very stealthily weaves in some STEM elements surrounding computer-tech, translating research into action, and creative thinking.'

– Rebecca, Publisher

The Girl and the Ghost: Grand Opening (Book 3) Jacqueline Harvey

'French mysteries, a charming baker and a long-dead prince . . . what more could you want?! Jacqueline Harvey once again delivers a story that’s as enchanting as it is entertaining. Brimming with mystery, humour and heart, this new adventure for Jet invites readers of all ages into a world that feels both magical and wonderfully within reach. With each page offering new puzzles to solve and laugh-out-loud moments to enjoy, this story is sure to captivate fans old and new.'

– Maddy, Publicist

Drawing Nudes While Making Other Plans Zoe Gaetjens

'Inspired by conversations with her own students about what they were enjoying reading, Zoe Gaetjens’ warm, funny, coming-of-age Australian teen romance is something fresh, true and highly relatable, with a narrative voice that hooks you in at once and characters that you become quickly invested in. Reminiscent of Krystal Sutherland’s Our Chemical Hearts, as well as a unique portrait of the ups and downs of creativity and believing in yourself, I promise that it will make you smile.'

– Lisa, Publisher

Raised by Wolves Tristan Bancks

'Raised by Wolves is the latest brilliant offering from Tristan Bancks. Read it as a sequel to Two Wolves or as a standalone book – action, pace, danger and much more as twelve-year-old Olive Silver pursues the man who ruined her life but also has the power to heal her: her dad. Again, Tristan balances the ethical questions kids face in today’s world with the heart and confusion of being a kid trying to figure out who they are and what they stand for. A must-read for kids who crave a great story.'

– Claire, Managing Editor

Don't Let Them Leave Mike Lucas

'A thought-provoking, spooky thriller set on a remote island in Cornwall, Don’t Let Them Leave is an atmospheric and suspenseful masterpiece! For fans of Stephen King, join orphaned siblings as they are sent to live with their grandma in Cornwall, where nothing is as it appears. Full of heart-stopping twists and compelling characters, readers will be on the edge of their seat. Read at night, if you dare . . .'

– Lexi, Publicist

Shapes of Love L.V. Peñalba

'This debut YA novel is about a pop star whose management asks her to fake-date a childhood friend in order to hide her asexuality. It explores identity and love, in all its non-romantic forms, but I have to admit that what hooked me in was the peek behind-the-scenes of the music industry and the celebrity gossip machine. (Swifties may relate to Sasha’s fans’ fixation on decoding her lyrics.) Shapes of Love reminded me of Loveless by Alice Oseman and Eleanor and Park by Rainbow Rowell: easy to read and very entertaining, with relatable characters and real emotional depth.'

– Suzanne, Senior Editor