Library 

CBCA Book Week 2026: Shortlist Spotlight 

Article by Paige Witcombe, Library Leader & 

Kay Bevan, Senior School Teacher Librarian

The Children’s Book Council of Australia has released their shortlist for their 2026 Book of the Year awards. In the lead up to Book Week, our libraries at Overnewton have made sure our students have a chance to check them out! Here are a few spotlights from the most popular picks from each shortlist. 

Older Readers 

Our Senior School students are especially interested in horror stories, and have been drawn in by the promise of 90s horror, ghosts, and hauntings. 

In “This Stays Between Us” by Margot McGovern, four girls go on a school retreat in a haunted town, and find themselves dealing with a legendary ghost by the name of Smiling Jack. 

Younger Readers 

Our Middle School students Our Middle School students have been drawn to the mystery and adventure, Sarah Armstrong’s Run, named an Honour Book by the CBCA. In Run, twelve-year-old Casper runs away into the bush to avoid a reunion with his absent father. But when Cas finds himself lost and completely alone in the wilderness, he begins to wonder: is he really alone? This gripping story of survival, family and courage is sure to keep readers turning the pages! 

Another popular choice has been Inked, the graphic novel that was named a CBCA winner in this category. It follows Syd, who makes an extraordinary discovery in his family’s fish shop - a talking, opera-loving octopus named Otto! 

With its beautiful illustrations, quirky characters and wonderfully funny story, Inked has quickly become a favourite with our Middle School readers. 

Junior Readers 

For the Junior School students, "Derek" by Anne Donaldson was voted our overwhelming favourite this year. 

Derek is a small fish who has lots of questions – and wants to know the answers to them! 

His curiosity and determination make him a highly relatable character for our younger students.  

To explore all of the 2026 CBCA Book of the Year winners and read the judges’ comments, visit the CBCA website.