Character, driven
David Lubar
Book summary
Expect a character-led coming-of-age story rather than an action thriller: Cliff’s friendships, creative ambitions, family pressures and attraction to Jillian unfold through witty, self-aware narration.
Explore
Type a book, author, topic, idea or reading experience.
Find a Book
Scan the ISBN, scan the front cover, or type what you know.
Combine filters when useful. Values show what a book addresses, not what it endorses.
Clear filtersRequests, popularity, awards and recommendations—not just age. A list is a starting point, not a suitability verdict.
Popular themes
Type to search the full theme index.
Fresh mix gives you a varied selection that stays steady while you browse, so returning from a guide does not reshuffle the page.
David Lubar
Expect a character-led coming-of-age story rather than an action thriller: Cliff’s friendships, creative ambitions, family pressures and attraction to Jillian unfold through witty, self-aware narration.
Joseph Robinette
A playful ensemble drama turns five animal tales into acted stories, then shifts towards a more personal final episode. Its distinctive appeal is imaginative performance alongside friendship and self-understanding.
Emily Rodda
Expect a brisk fantasy quest built around danger, escape and puzzle-solving. The book spends substantial time in Noradz, where cleanliness is enforced harshly, before moving towards a frightening confrontation in the City of the Rats.
Isaac Fitzsimons
This is a sports-centred coming-of-age story about a transgender teenager balancing football, privacy, romance, family relationships, and the possibility of advocating for other trans young people.
Coral Rumble
This is a thoughtful story about a child carrying adult responsibilities who finds friendship, creativity and adventure while visiting Italy. An injured otter and the people Jakub meets help broaden his sense of who he is.
Sharon Jennings, Paulette Bourgeois, Sean Jeffrey
A story about wanting to seem older, trying adult-like responsibility, and recognising the value of time with a friend. Franklin’s experience may invite reflection on growing up without treating play as childish.