Book Lists for Book Week: Mary Van Reyk’s Home Library Essentials

Mary Van Reyk has worked at second-hand bookstores, franchise bookstores, independent bookstores and Australian publishers as an expert in children’s literature. We asked Mary to select five books that she felt were essential reading for readers from a very young age, all the way through to high school.

Here is her selection:

Doodle Cat is Bored by Kat Patrick and Lauren Marriott

Who doesn’t get a little bit bored during the school holidays? Doodle Cat will get those young brain cells firing around what kind of fun boredom can actually spark. (Ages 2+)

The Arrival by Shaun Tan

This is a visual narrative with no words and each reading of it is unique. The images engage imaginations and build empathy in a way that connects with any reading age or level. (Ages 6+)

The Babysitters Club Series by Ann M Martin

Some parents will remember reading these when they were kids, and the BSC books are still great reads. Strong female characters and timeless themes like friendship. (Ages 8+)

Nevermoor by Jessica Townsend

For kids who love Harry Potter and want more, this is the first book in a magical new series that they will read again and again. (Ages 9+)

The Knife of Never Letting Go by Patrick Ness

For a series unlike any other, this starts out with a fascinating concept that takes the reader on an adventure full of unexpected twists and turns. The perfect introduction to Science Fiction. (Ages 13+)