Ruby's Web

Starting high school is difficult enough. For Ruby, everything becomes even more complicated when her cousin Amber suddenly distances herself and Ruby becomes the target of racism and bullying online.

Set against the backdrop of Australia's 2023 First Nations Voice to Parliament referendum, Ruby's Web follows Ruby as she navigates friendship, identity, belonging, racism and cyberbullying while finding the confidence to speak up and seek help.

Written by Mununjali and Dutch author Ellen van Neerven, this contemporary Aboriginal young adult novel explores the ways online and offline experiences can overlap, while highlighting the importance of family, community, culture, writing and supportive relationships.

Why you'll love it:

• Contemporary Aboriginal young adult fiction
• Written by award-winning First Nations author Ellen van Neerven
• Explores racism and cyberbullying
• Examines identity, belonging and self-worth
• Set during the 2023 Voice to Parliament referendum
• Explores friendship, family, community and finding your voice
• Suitable for readers aged 12+
• A valuable discussion starter for secondary classrooms
• Published by First Nations publisher Magabala Books
• Listed in the NSW Premier's Reading Challenge

A thought-provoking Australian YA novel for young people, educators and families looking for contemporary First Nations fiction exploring identity, racism, online bullying and belonging.

Product details

Title: Ruby's Web
Author: Ellen van Neerven
Publisher: Magabala Books
Format: Paperback
Pages: 128
ISBN: 9781922864017
Release date: 24 February 2026
Age: 12+
Genre: Young Adult Fiction