Moonlight and Dust

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