Moonlight and Dust
$24.99
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Moonlight and Dust
$24.99
Moonlight and Dust is an intriguing, fast-paced YA fantasy novel featuring sixteen-year-old Torres Strait Islander Zillah, who finds herself drawn into a secret world of high school parties, mysterious magic and dangerous secrets.
After Zillah's rebellious older sister Nik has an accident that leaves her in a coma, Zillah must navigate her final year of high school in Cairns without her sister by her side. Determined to step outside her usual life, Zillah discovers a mysterious sparkling elixir called Moondust, which appears to give people magical powers.
As Zillah becomes more involved in the secret party scene at Craigmont High, she begins to wonder whether Moondust is connected to Nik's accident. Along the way, she forms new friendships, discovers unexpected romance and starts uncovering secrets that could put them all in danger.
Why you'll love it:
· Combines YA fantasy, magic, mystery, friendship and romance
· Features a strong Torres Strait Islander teenage protagonist
· Explores themes of family, identity, friendship, trust and belonging
· Brings Islander culture and language into a contemporary Australian fantasy setting
Perfect for young adult readers, secondary students and fans of fantasy and magical adventure. A great choice for readers who enjoy mysterious secrets, strong female characters, friendship, romance and stories featuring First Nations Australian perspectives.
Book details
Author: Jasmin McGaughey
Language: English
Format: Paperback
Pages: 320
ISBN: 9781761181337
Publisher: Allen & Unwin
Publication: 2025
Age: 14–18 years
Genre: Young Adult Fantasy
Frequently asked questions
What is Moonlight and Dust about?
Torres Strait Islander teenager Zillah encounters a mysterious magical elixir while navigating her final year of high school and her sister's serious accident.
What themes does Moonlight and Dust explore?
Moonlight and Dust explores themes of Torres Strait Islander identity, family, magic, grief, choices and belonging.
What age group is Moonlight and Dust suitable for?
Moonlight and Dust is suitable for secondary and young adult readers. Educators and families may wish to consider individual readers' maturity and the themes explored in the book.
How can educators use Moonlight and Dust in the classroom?
Educators can use Moonlight and Dust for shared or independent reading, literature study and guided discussion. The book can support conversations connected to Torres Strait Islander identity, family, magic, grief, choices and belonging, with activities adapted to the age and learning needs of students.
Can Moonlight and Dust be used to teach First Nations perspectives?
Yes. Moonlight and Dust can support learning about First Nations perspectives through its Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander voices, characters, histories, cultures or experiences. It should be used in conjunction with other learning materials that provide appropriate cultural context and deeper learning, and educators are encouraged to seek guidance and input from their local Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander community where possible.