Bookmarked
Our library team have been working on something special for our customers, so you can find the perfect book for every mood, genre, or occasion.
We've carefully curated reviews that include read-alikes and span our library shelves from areas of fiction to non-fiction, graphic novels, teen, children's fiction, and picture books.
We'll continue to add to this list periodically, so our treasured titles continue to be made known to you and freely available through our wealth of free and accessible library resources.
General, Historical, and Classics
Explore life’s complexities through extraordinary plots and intriguing characters, uncover the past and jump back in time or immerse yourself in the evolution of storytelling with classics old and new.
Books recommended by City of Adelaide Library staff Ariana and Rose.
Honeybee by Craig Silvey
General Fiction
Similar to Trent Dalton’s Boy Swallows Universe, this is a wonderful Aussie book exploring a gritty coming of age story, as the protagonist struggles with their home life and gender identity. Filled with sadness yet also humour and redemption, Honeybee is a must read. Also check out Markus Zusak and Silvey’s back catalogue for more Australian gems. - Ariana
One Hundred Years of Lenni and Margot
General Fiction
This is a heartwarming story of two people connected by circumstance and finding friendship despite their differences. A good read for fans of Matthew Quick and The Fault in Our Stars by John Green. I would also recommend We All Want Impossible Things by Catherine Newman. - Ariana
The Seasonal Quartet by Ali Smith
General Fiction
Comprised of four stand-alone yet interconnected novels titled Autumn, Winter, Spring, and Summer, the Seasonal Quartet is a powerful collection of works that explore love, loss, and where we find our humanity in times when the world seems fused by blame and hate. What’s unusual about these books is that they were all approved in advance to be released in as close proximity to one another as possible, culminating in a series that immediately responds to its environment, richly reflecting on how we live now and finding meaning through uncertain and isolating times. - Rose
Sunbathing by Isobel Beech
General Fiction
Sunbathing is a beautiful and heart-wrenching debut that explores the grief of a young woman in the wake of her father’s death by suicide. Reeling from her loss and disappearing into herself, the protagonist uproots her life to visit friends in Abruzzo, Italy. Here, the simplicity of day-to-day walks in nearby orchards and chores in her friends’ old villa allows life to slow down, as we the reader are brought into reflections and meditations on our social world, our relationship to technology, and most poignantly, our memories of those we have lost. - Rose
James by Percival Everett
Historical Fiction
Why haven’t I read this author before? This book is a joy, I will be sure to check out Everett’s back catalogue post haste. A riff on Mark Twain’s Tom Sawyer and Huckleberry Finn stories, this is a must read for fans of American History, Twain, and classics in general. - Ariana
The Midnight Watch by David Dyer
historical fiction
Based on the true story of the Titanic’s plea for help which went unheeded, I found this tale equal parts insightful and entertaining. Suitable for those who enjoy more fact in their fiction, for example Stephen Fry’s Mythos and The Underground Railroad by Colson Whitehead. - Ariana
Dusk by Robbie Arnott
historical fiction
It’s a mystery exactly where this is set (somewhere in Australia, most likely Tasmania) and when (sometime in the past, possibly the 1800s or 1900s), yet what isn’t a mystery is the eloquence of Arnott’s writing. The story unfolds effortlessly, and as a reader you want twins Iris and Floyd to succeed, and Dusk – the puma with a bounty on its head – to survive. A beautiful story, great for fans of Greenwood by Michael Christie and Last Migration or Once There Were Wolves by Charlotte McConaghy. - Ariana
Frankenstein by Mary Shelley
classics
Widely considered the first sci-fi novel, Shelley explores the ideas of scientific progress and their implications in this gothic tale that sees Frankenstein, a brilliant university student, play God by creating life with corpse parts. Repulsed by his creation, Frankenstein rejects his monster, but is haunted by him throughout his life. Unlike a lot of the Victorian literature that followed in the decades after 1818, this classic is shorter, snappier, and less dependent on social nuances and etiquette to drive the plot, as the reader is drawn in to ask is it nature or nurture that makes the monster? - Rose
The Things They Carried by Tim O'Brien
Classics
This book is a harrowing read; it is deeply sorrowful, littered with violence, and at times disturbing, pitted against a celebration of imagination and storytelling. Set during and upon return from the Vietnam War, this anti-war classic follows a company of soldiers as they make their way through the jungle. O’Brien’s ruminations on war and peace combined with his prose has made this a staple of American literature. - Rose
Nights at the Circus by Angela Carter
classics
Angela Carter is the perfect author for postmodern fiction lovers - she weaves absurd stories with lovable and bizarre characters who push the bounds of reality using rich vocabulary and imagery. This particular story focuses on winged woman Fevvers, both beastlike and beautiful, who rollicks through the late 1890s with a cast of unlikely accomplices and exaggerated villains, exploring (with wry parallels to the time of the book’s release) ideas of gender and being an object of desire. - Rose
Mystery and Thriller
Curl up with a cosy small-town mystery and see if you can work out ‘whodunit’ or discover heart-pounding suspense and the thrill of the chase.
Books recommended by City of Adelaide Library staff Ariana, Rose, and Julie.
The Wasp Factory by Iain Banks
Thriller
This book is an incredibly creepy read. The adolescent narrator details torturous mazes and rituals they create for insects on the remote Scottish island in which the story is set, casually revealing that they had killed three people before the age of ten. As disturbing and unsettling as it is gripping, this original coming-of-age story has stood the test of time. - Rose
The Ledge by Christian White
thriller
One of the best Australian thrillers I have read in recent years, The Ledge is set across two time periods, where White slowly builds tension while still creating a page turner. Great for people who read Jane Harper and Chris Hammer, and for those who loved Noah Hawley’s The Fall and Laura Dave’s The Last Thing He Told Me. - Ariana
Deal Breaker by Harlan Coben
Thriller
Before Netflix started turning his standalone thrillers into miniseries, Harlan Coben began the Myron Bolitar series with Deal Breaker. A promising basketballer-turned-sports agent, Myron finds himself and his clients in dangerous and even deadly situations. This series features a suite of memorable characters including ‘Glamorous Ladies of Wrestling’ Esperanza and Big Cyndi and blue-blooded psychopath Win. Harlan Coben’s trademark is self-deprecating humour and he is the master of the hook and twist ending. - Julie
The Villa by Rachel Hawkins
Thriller
If you thought Daisy Jones and the Six could have used more murder, this might be the book for you. A gothic suspense set in Orvieto, Italy across two different timelines. In 1974 a group of young bohemians spend the summer at the villa – a summer that culminated in a murder, a bestselling horror novel and a platinum album. In the current day, two best friends take a girls’ trip to Italy to reconnect and get drawn into the history of the villa, as secrets and betrayals come to light. - Julie
We Need to Talk About Kevin
Thriller
This unsettling read follows the story of Eva, mother to a son she never particularly wanted and always feared or disliked, as she reflects on her life in the wake of his murderous rampage. This book is perfect for readers who enjoy thrillers but want something with more emotional depth, as it questions each characters’ role in the destruction. - Rose
The Socialite's Guide to Murder by S.K. Golden
Mystery
Part mystery, part historical fiction, this is a light read with a fun character leading you through it all. This book teaches you to never underestimate a blonde – like Legally Blonde or Clueless, but set in the 1950s. - Ariana
The Woman in the Library by Sulari Gentill
mystery
This author is a master of the locked room mystery, starting this novel with a scream in the Boston Public Library, where everyone must stay put until the threat has been resolved. Delving into the complicated nature of trust and friendship as strangers begin to forge bonds, The Woman in the Library is complete with a spectacular twist that will have you delving into Gentill’s catalogue for more. - Rose
Himself by Jess Kidd
Mystery
Jess Kidd has such an incredible knack for developing magnetic, quirky, and totally beloved characters and Himself is no exception. This mystery sees handsome out-of-towner Malony, return decades later to the conservative village at the centre of his wayward mother’s death. Convinced of foul play, he befriends an elderly actress to assist in the sleuthing. Between the characters, a slice of Irish village life, and the dark comedy woven throughout the text, this book was filled with humour and was totally charming! - Rose
The Woman in White by Wilkie Collins
mystery
Wilkie Collins has long been heralded for The Moonstone, which many consider to be the first true detective novel; however, The Woman in White is just as good. I couldn’t believe how fresh this felt to read given it was first published in 1860, particularly in terms of the story’s resourceful heroine. In classic Victorian fashion, this is a monster book at over 700 pages, so would be better suited to regular readers. - Rose
Homecoming by Kate Morton
Mystery
In her latest novel, Morton offers a split timeline between modern Sydney and 1950s Adelaide Hills, where a cold case of a family murder suicide is unravelled. Part mystery, part historical fiction, this intriguing tale dissects how far people would go to protect themselves to fulfil their desires, before our villain is revealed in a punchy finish. - Rose
Fantasy and Sci-Fi
Adventure to another realm, discover mythical creatures, and join epic quests or dive into a warp-speed adventure through the cosmos and beyond.
Books recommended by City of Adelaide Library staff Ben, Amanda, Ariana, Victoria, and Rose.
The Skyward Series by Brandon Sanderson
sci-fi
Brandon Sanderson's Skyward series is a thrilling blend of high-stakes space adventure and compelling character growth. The story follows Spensa, a young pilot determined to prove herself in a world where humanity is trapped on a planet constantly under threat from mysterious alien forces. Sanderson masterfully crafts a universe filled with intriguing mysteries, clever twists, and strong emotional arcs, particularly as Spensa uncovers secrets about her past and the true nature of the war. - Ben
This Kingdom of Dusk by David Dyer
Sci-Fi
Do you feel like being transported into space, and time travelling to take part in the Apollo 11 moon landing? Well, this story is a fascinating fusion of sci-fi and historical fiction, so it feels like you’re learning facts about the mission, while at the same time being taken on a fantastical and philosophical journey. I suggest this book for those who liked the musing style of Samantha Harvey’s Orbital, but it’s also great for those who prefer a pacier story. - Ariana
The Quiet War by Paul McAuley
sci-fi
The Quiet War by Paul McAuley is richly detailed and thought-provoking, exploring the political and ecological tensions between Earth and its off-world colonies. Set in a meticulously imagined future, the story weaves together multiple perspectives, delving into genetic engineering, environmental ethics, and power struggles. McAuley's writing is intelligent and engaging, though there are times when the narrative feels measured. Fans of hard science fiction will appreciate the depth and realism. It’s a compelling read for those who enjoy cerebral, slow-burn space operas. - Ben
Shift by Hugh Howley
Sci-Fi
Shift by Hugh Howey is a gripping, multilayered novel that delves into the origins of a dystopian world built on secrecy and control. The narrative shifts between timelines and perspectives, gradually unravelling the disturbing truth behind humanity's last refuge. Howey masterfully balances suspense, political intrigue, and philosophical depth, crafting characters whose personal struggles reflect broader moral dilemmas. The pacing is deliberate yet compelling, building a sense of inevitability that lingers long after the final page. Shift is both a chilling warning and a thought-provoking exploration of human resilience and ambition. - Ben
The Ancillary Series by Ann Leckie
sci-fi
Ann Leckie’s Ancillary Series is a bold, genre-defying triumph in sci-fi literature. Starting with Ancillary Justice, the trilogy explores identity, empire, and artificial intelligence through the unique lens of Breq—a former starship AI housed in a single human body. Leckie’s inventive use of language, particularly gender-neutral pronouns, challenges readers' assumptions and deepens the narrative’s exploration of power and personhood. The series blends thought-provoking philosophy with gripping political intrigue, creating a richly layered universe that lingers long after the final page. A must-read for fans of smart, progressive science fiction. - Ben
Wind and Truth by Brandon Sanderson
fantasy
This book was AMAZING. Every word, every storyline and every paragraph was an addition to the story. At over 1300 pages, it was the longest individual book I’ve ever read. I carried this book everywhere I went so if I had a spare minute, I could read. I gasped, I laughed, I cried, I cheered, and I was totally in awe of the characters journeys in this book. Absolutely loved it. - Amanda
The Kingkiller Chronicle by Patrick Rofthuss
Fantasy
This series is beautifully written - quite poetic at times and thoroughly immersive. I love the characters, the magic system and the world. I found myself very invested in the main character – Kvothe. An epic story well worth the read. - Amanda
All the White Spaces by Ally Wilkies
fantasy
An alternative history arctic horror book about a trans man who joins an expedition to the South Pole in 1920, to both escape a life of limits and societal expectations, and to honour his fallen brothers. Heavily inspired by Ernest Shackleton’s failed expedition, this arctic adventure takes a decidedly supernatural turn when strange forces stalk and torment the ship’s crew. It's beautifully creepy, especially its focus on the natural landscape and phenomenon of this oppressive supernatural force, not something that's evil, but something completely unknowable to man. I have never been so creeped out by the aurora! - Victoria
Kaikeyi by Vaishnavi Patel
fantasy
In this enchanting tale, Patel reimagines the story of Kaikeyi from her perspective, the scorned third wife of the King renowned for her infamous banishment of stepson Rama from the kingdom of Kosala in the Sanskrit epic the Ramayana. Not only was Kaikeyi’s magic in this novel beautifully depicted and deeply entrenched in human connection, but the story was incredibly interesting and informative about this snippet of some of Hindu India’s most famous folklore. - Rose
Empyrean Series by Rebecca Yarros
Fantasy
Similar to works of Sarah Maas, this series falls firmly in the surge of ‘Romantasy’ works that are being devoured across the world. The story centres around Violet, who enters the brutal world of the Basgiath War College for dragon riders, forced to try and survive against the odds of both her physical abilities and other cutthroat cadets out for blood. These books do a great job of balancing plot and lore against the friendships and love interests that emerge, so it doesn’t feel as if one aspect is eclipsing the other. It’s a great escapist series with more books to come. - Rose
Romance
Fall in love with every page and find your next big romance, whether you’re looking for heartwarming fluff or sizzling passion.
Books recommended by City of Adelaide Library staff Julie, Rose, and Lainy.
Love Unleashed by Melanie Seward
Romance
Brynne is a Bigambul woman who heads to New York to pursue her dream of working in publishing and wearing killer heels, but instead finds herself working in a doggy daycare, wearing army surplus boots. A contemporary romance about finding your way, falling on your feet, and the unexpected detours we take while chasing our dreams, this story features some adorable canine companions, memorable extended and found family, and a little bit of New York magic. Read this if you enjoyed watching Younger or The Bold Type. - Julie
Bridgerton Series by Julia Quinn
Romance
I picked this up out of curiosity after the popularity of Netflix’s Bridgerton and was pleasantly surprised by how fleshed out the characters and plots were. Brimming with wit and humour and accompanied by the relatable bickering of the Bridgerton family, these light-hearted regency romances go down a treat. - Rose
The Magpie Lord by K.J. Charles
Romance
Stephen Day is a magician for hire who solves the magical problems of the Victorian England populace. His latest case however poses a real threat – not just to his magical ability, but to his heart. Witty banter, posh British nobles, magic and some wonderfully written romance; how could you not want to read every book in the series? - Lainy
Tomorrow and Tomorrow and Tomorrow by Gabrielle Zevin
Romance
I didn’t know what to expect with this book as I’ve had mixed experiences with what’s popular on Booktok, but this was a sensational story. Set during the 90s in America, our love triangle work writing and developing video games. This was such a unique story and the way that they described their work was really beautiful and interesting. There’s a lot of plot affecting the interpersonal relationships to drive the story forward, so this is a great pick for readers who like something beyond the romance. - Rose
Winter's Orbit
Romance
If you took every genre you could think of and threw them at the wall, you might end up with this book. Despite the author’s deep ambition to tick every box, this ended up being a thoroughly enjoyable story. We begin this science fiction adventure with an arranged marriage between two worlds, which quickly turns into a thriller as assassins leap into the picture and our heroes thwart their attempts by going on the run, devolving into an exciting action adventure. There’s no time to catch our breath because we’re quickly wading into the mystery of who is behind everything, but don’t forget – at the heart of the novel is a beautiful romance between two people who couldn’t be more different. An awful lot of plot takes place in this book, but you still get beautiful moments between the characters, and their budding romance never feels rushed. - Lainy
Normal People by Sally Rooney
Romance
Rooney has successfully published many books exploring different kinds of relationships since Normal People, but this is an absolute favourite. The book follows Connell and Marianne from their schooling days in Sligo to University in Dublin, exploring the stronghold and pull of first loves, class, and mental illness, as the two find their way back to one another time and time again. Although not as light-hearted as your average romance, this is an addictive and beautiful story. - Rose
Among the Living by Jordan Castillo Price
romance
In a world where psychics are not only real but harnessed for their powers, Victor has flown under the radar by downplaying the strength of his gift. This has permitted him to live his own life as the psychic half of a ‘PsyCop’ team, a pair of detectives (one gifted, one without) who solve crime. When a new detective arrives on the scene, Victor finds his predictable life upended, and in more ways than just the bodies piling up. I loved the world building in this, but I loved the grumpy characters with hearts of gold even more, and this delicious blend of procedural cop show with supernatural elements and romance is just an overlapping Venn Diagram of enjoyment. - Lainy
Our London Lives by Christine Dwyer Hickey
Romance
Kicking off in the 1970s, Our London Lives follows two Irish people living in London: Milly, a lost teenager who ran away and works at a live-in pub in the city, and Pip, a magnetic boxer who drinks too much. Over the course of the decades that follow, the two are thrust together and pulled apart by the world around them, brought together decades later and told through a split timeline. This is not a light and fluffy romance, it is more so a study of human nature and loneliness, speckled with hope, forgiveness, and second chances. - Rose
Memoirs and Biography
Uncover the real stories behind celebrities, sports stars and everyday people.
Books recommended by City of Adelaide Library staff Ariana, Julie, and Rose.
The Erratics by Vicki Laveau-Harvie
memoir
A memoir that sees the author exploring her duty to family, even when not especially close - either psychologically or physically - to her mum. Laveau-Harvie writes her story in such a haunting and honest way, that you get swept up into her world – half in Canada, where she grew up, and half in Australia, where she escaped as soon as she could. The female equivalent of Not My Father’s Son by Alan Cumming, which I also highly recommend. Also recommend I’m Glad My Mom Died by Jeannette McCurdy, which manages to be both sad and humorous. - Ariana
Educated by Tara Westover
biography
This is a totally addictive autobiography. Raised by survivalists in Idaho, Westover is brought up in a world that is both sheltered from reality and becomes increasingly violent as her and her siblings navigate home schooling, rifling through junk yards for scrap, and an abusive older brother. As she matures and discovers a love of reading and education, Westover is driven by a thirst for knowledge which sees her attend university, leaving her family for the first time. This is as much a story of achievement against the odds as it is a search for home and placemaking when let down by your family, such an interesting, impressive, and bittersweet story. - Rose
Eggshell Skull by Bri Lee
memoir
This memoir interrogates the treatment of victims of sexual assault and abuse and the seemingly never-ending obstacles for those seeking justice in court. After graduating law school and beginning work in the family courts in Brisbane, Lee is forced to confront her own historical assault from her childhood. This was not an easy or comfortable read given the subject matter, but does an amazing job of unveiling the harrowing realities of victims of abuse and of exposing how our system protects the wrong people. - Rose
This Is Going to Hurt by Adam Kay
memoir
Another great medical memoir, perfect for fans of Nikki Stamp’s Scrubbed. However, Kay has a lot more humour in his book, as well as some language and crudity, and instead of being a heart specialist in Australia, was an obstetrician in the NHS in England. Despite these differences, there are so many similarities between the two, and one cannot help but be full of admiration for medical professionals. - Ariana
We All Shine On: John, Yoko, and me by Elliot Mintz
Memoir
This is one of the most unusual memoirs I have read, partly because it involves very famous people and yet reveals them in an entirely new light, and partly because the author himself is so fascinating despite being hitherto unknown. A must read for Beatles' fans as well as those who love this period of music history. - Ariana
Wifedom: Mrs. Orwell's invisible life by Anna Funder
biography
Upon researching George Orwell, Anna Funder discovered his all but forgotten wife, Eileen O’Shaughnessy, and took it upon herself to celebrate the work of this impressive woman and her undeniable influence on Orwell’s writing and career. Spanning the Spanish Civil War in the 1930s to the couple’s respective deaths in the 1940s and 50s, this book brings into question what it means to be a partner and a writer, whilst shedding light on the unsung achievements of women forced to live in the shadows of their husbands. - Rose
Crying in H Mart by Michelle Zauner
Memoir
This is a beautiful and heart-wrenching text, as Zauner writes of losing her Korean mother, struggling to reconcile her identity as an Asian American through her grief. I loved the way that this book spoke about food, whether it be sharing a meal as an act of love or a dish that will always conjure a distinct memory, time, and place. I’d recommend keeping a box of tissues on hand when reading this one! - Rose
The Lasting Harm: Witnessing the Trial of Ghislaine Maxwell by Lucia Osborne-Crowley
True Crime Memoir
As one of the few journalists in the room where it happened, Lucia Osborne-Crowley gives a vividly detailed account of the Ghislaine Maxwell trial. This is confronting and sobering reading, and unapologetically highlights the stories of the victims and the ongoing impact of the trauma on their lives. Written with compassion, and from a deeply personal perspective, this is heavy reading offering hopeful suggestions for how the legal system could do better by victims in the future. - Julie
Coffee Table Books
A feast for the eyes – music, art and design explored through breathtaking images.
Books recommended by City of Adelaide Library staff members Dave and Belinda.
No Photos on the Dancefloor! Berlin 1989 - Today edited by Heiko Hoffman
music and culture
Comprehensive and eclectic, a series of photos, essays and interviews on Berlin club culture post Wall and up to the modern era; No Photos on the Dancefloor! ignites the heart, body and mind with very candid imagery and visual storytelling. Even if you weren’t there, you can get a real sense of the energy of the times. - Dave
Ten Principles for Good Design by Dieter Rams
design
A collection of the influential 20th century designer’s best known, and lesser-known works across a comprehensive 400+ pages; Ten Principles for Good Design reinforces Braun design and their legacy on how we interact with thoughtful yet simple and functional design and aesthetics of the well-known modern brands. A must for any serious admirer of the design of everyday objects. - Dave
Yayoi Kusama edited by Frances Morris
art
This beautiful book is a reissue, published to coincide with Kusama’s 2021 retrospective at the Tate Modern - it is a must-read for anyone interested in contemporary art and the Avant Garde. Yayoi Kusama is an icon who changed the world of art, Kusama's story encourages us to follow our dreams and embrace our uniqueness. Arguably Japan's most famous living artist, Kusama’s originality, innovation and powerful desire to communicate have propelled her through a career that has spanned six decades. During this time, Kusama has explored painting, sculpture, printmaking, photography, collage, film and video, performance and installation, as well as product design. Importantly, Yayoi has been open about her mental health challenges and has helped break down inaccurate views on mental illness. In her forties, she took the decision to move into a psychiatric hospital and, from a studio nearby, she continues working—surprising and delighting audiences with each new collaboration and exhibition. - Belinda
Printed in North Korea: The art of life in the DPRK by Nicholas Bonner
Art
A vast collection of lino-cut and woodblock prints dating from the 1950’s through the 21st Century; Printed in North Korea offers a rare glimpse of artworks featuring the everyday lives of North Korea’s workers, as they are carefully represented by the artists, which reflects the unique political conditions within which they work. - Dave
Epic Iran: 5000 years of culture by John Curtis
Art and culture
An absolute trove of stunning beauty, innovation, creativity and splendour; Epic Iran features a huge collection of full-sized images and descriptions drawn from vast collections. A must have historical reference on one of the most ancient and influential of cultures. - Dave
Composers Who Changed History by Dorling Kindersley
Music
This glossy tome highlights the lives and works of many influential composers, covering a broad range of musical styles from the Middle Ages to the present day. It is one of the hundreds of titles published by DK, a UK house that specialises in the ‘power of discovery’. Composers Who Changed History places well-known composers in their historical and cultural context, allowing you to see how they came to influence music. As a previous student of classical music who was only ever taught about male composers, how wonderful to learn about Cecile Chaminade, who was of course an unconventional woman (a vegetarian!) managing to make financial gains in her lifetime from composing over 200 pieces for piano, which made Chaminade unique among her contemporaries. This is a perfect coffee table book, to be handled reverentially, mused-through then placed down, discovering something new every single time. - Belinda
Chocolate: packaging and design for everyday objects
design
Featuring some of the finest chocolate creations and packaging to grace print media, and perhaps even the sweetest, Chocolate: packaging design for everyday objects draws from a serious cohort of artisanal chocolatiers and package designers to present a mouth-watering tome like no other. - Dave
Teen Fiction and Graphic Novels
Escape into a world of teen dreams, drama and daring adventures or peruse nooks where illustrations bring stories to life – from superheroes to slice-of-life.
Books recommended by City of Adelaide Library staff member Ariana, Mikayla, and Luke, and City Library work experience student Annabel.
The Luis Ortega Fan Club by Sonora Reyes
Teen fiction
A great book about learning to band together and shine a light on bullying, manipulation and consent, as well as learning the value of friendship even among those ‘different’ from us. The author does not shy away from the gritty realities of the teen years. Ideal for those who enjoyed The Hate You Give
by Angie Thomas and Simon vs The Homo Sapiens Agenda by Becky Albertalli. - Ariana
How to Repaint A Life by Steven Herrick
Teen fiction
I loved this book because it showed so much hope and kindness after a less than hopeful start to the story, which isn’t always the case with coming of age stories. As a bonus, it is Australian. Suggested reading for fans of The Fault in Our Stars by John Green and Everyone Dies Famous in a Small Town by Bonnie-Sue Hitchcock. - Ariana
Not If I See You First by Eric Lindstrom
Teen Fiction
Pragmatic, highly intelligent Parker Grant's got being blind down to a fine art. What she can't wrap her head around is the death of her father and the reappearance of her ex-best friend. With her world turned upside-down and well-meaning family making things complicated, Parker must rely on both old friends and new. But will her scepticism and guarded heart be her undoing? This beautifully written debut novel grabbed me tight and wouldn't let go. At the end of every chapter, I was relieved that there was more still to come, hooked on Lindstrom's multi-dimensional characters and their journeys of life, friendship, and love. I can't recommend this book enough. - Mikayla
Completely Normal (and Other Lies) by Biffy James
Teen fiction
This is a captivating novel that follows the storyline of a young girl struggling through adolescence, and shows characters exploring their identities, and maturing through personal growth. The piece effectively captures the main character, Jess, and her journey through adolescence, providing many readers with a character they can resonate with. It explores many themes, traits and prompts for reflection on relatable teenage experiences. Highly recommended for those who enjoy books that explore themes of coming of age and authenticity. - Annabel
Lightlark by Alex Aster
Teen fiction
An intriguing and exciting fantasy book that follows main character, Isla, on her journey as she navigates the struggles, hardships and everything in-between, that come with being a ruler. The many plot twists, powers, special abilities and more found within the captivating and compelling text, takes the reader along on an adventure that will keep them constantly second guessing and on the edge of their seat. An exceptional read for fantasy, mystery and adventure lovers. - Annabel
Fangs by Sarah Andersen
graphic novel
I really enjoyed this adorable read-in-one-sitting graphic novel love story. With both humour and tenderness, Sarah Anderson brings us into the world of two misfits who find their place with one another. Fangs is a series of slice-of-life comics and illustrations which follow a vampire and a werewolf navigating the unique challenges of their supernatural abilities... as well as the very familiar challenges and joys that human relationships have to offer. - Mikayla
The Nice House on the Lake Volume 1 by James Tynion IV and Alvaro Martinez Bueno
Graphic Novel
Walter has invited ten friends to spend a weekend at a luxurious lakeside house in the countryside. The house is equipped with everything and anything you could possibly need, providing a serene escape from the busyness of modern life. Surrounded by nature, it feels like they are the only people left on Earth - – in fact, they are! Because “Walter” has saved his nearest and dearest from the end of the world! - Luke
Ultimate Spider-Man Vol 1: Married with Children by Jonathon Hickman, Marco Checchetto, and David Messina
graphic novel
A brilliant 21st century reimagining. Peter Parker is a family man, he has a job he loves, but something is missing. The world is different. There are no heroes. Does Peter want to accept the great power and the great responsibility? The most surprising and best Spider-Man stories are here, it’s the classic hero we all know but with a surprising and welcome twist. - Luke
H.P. Lovecraft's at the Mountain's of Madness, Volume 1 by Gou Tanabe
Graphic Novel
This manga adaptation of HP Lovecraft's classic tale features stunning fine line black and white artwork. The tale revolves around an expedition to the Antarctic in the 1930s led by a group of explorers and scientists. As they delve into the ice, snow, and mysterious caves, they uncover chilling secrets. This classic horror is beautifully adapted in a creepy and realistic manner, capturing the essence of Lovecraft's eerie storytelling. - Luke
Ash's Cabin by Jen Wang
Graphic Novel
I couldn't put down this beautifully illustrated graphic novel. Ash immediately struck me as a multi-faceted character with a lot of depth, and I was drawn into their story of identity, independence, and grief. Ash's Cabin asks what it means to be alive, to be human. With a story that will keep you hooked until the last page with its unexpected realism and tender moments of unexpected kindness and connection, this is a must-read for anyone who's ever felt like they don't belong. - Mikayla
Picture Books, Early Readers, and Children’s Fiction
Colourful adventures and inspiring stories for little ones, younger readers, or older children, where imagination knows no bounds.
Books recommended by City of Adelaide Library staff Amanda, her son Luke, and her daughter Emma.
You're the Star in My Sky by Susanna Leonard Hill
Picture book
A beautifully illustrated rhyming picture book that shows the love of parent to child and the wish for a child that they grow up feeling loved, cherished, and treasured. A beautiful bedtime story. - Amanda
If the Moose in S Comes Loose by Peter Hermann
Picture book
An adventure story about a cow, a moose, a goat, a bear, a bull, a house. Another rhyming picture book that’s very fun to read and keeps kids engaged from start to finish, with fun word play helping to tell the story. - Amanda
Harold and the Purple Crayon by Crockett Johnson
Picture Book
This book was so delightful. The story is beautifully simple and the illustrations are very clever. Definitely going on my top Children’s Picture Book List. - Amanda
Amelia Bedelia by Peggy Parish
Early Readers
This laugh out loud picture book is SO charming and is one of my absolute favourite picture books of all time. Amelia Bedelia is a wonderful character and I recommend this book as often as I can. - Amanda
Journey Through Time Series by Geronimo Stilton
Early Readers
A fun and engaging read for kids who like adventure stories. The different text-colours and fonts make it fun to read as well. The story takes the reader back in time to see dinosaurs, pirates, pyramids and knights. - Luke
Dragon Masters by Tracey West
Early Readers
This early chapter book series is about Drake, his friends, dragons and magic. This series has lots of books in the series (29 and still going) is interesting, funny and I enjoy all the adventures that the characters go on. With lots of pictures to look at in each chapter, there are also questions at the end of the book to ask about what happened in story. I like this series lots. - Emma
Dragonology Chronicles by Dugald A. Steer
Children's Fiction
An adventure story about a brother and sister who meet lots of mythical creatures from all different cultures and try to protect the dragons. A fun and exciting series that I really enjoyed. - Luke
Escape from Mr. Lemoncello's Library by Chris Grabenstein
Children's Fiction
This is a coming of age story that is all about puzzles, tests and passing on legacies. It is also a story about friends and enemies and includes a lot of libraries. This fast paced story is about lots of different characters and I really enjoyed it. - Luke