Between the bookshelves: A NSW Premier's Reading Challenge podcast

Between the bookshelves - 15. Remy Lai

In this episode of Between the bookshelves, host Jade Arnold is joined by award-winning author and illustrator Remy Lai [https://remylai.com/], whose much-loved graphic novels and illustrated stories appear across the NSW Premier’s Reading Challenge booklists. From the laugh-out-loud sibling chaos of Chickenpox to the heartfelt immigrant story Pie in the Sky, and the spine-tingling scares of Read at Your Own Risk, Remy shares the inspirations behind her books, her love of graphic novels, and how she balances humour, horror, and heart in her storytelling. Remy also shares her Between the bookshelves pitch for all of her titles, as well as her recommendations for what readers should try next. We also explore her Surviving the Wild series for younger readers, the role of family and friendship in her work, and why graphic novels deserve a place on every child’s bookshelf. Whether you’re a dog lover, a fan of spooky reads, or just curious about the creative process, this conversation is packed with insights, laughs, and fantastic book recommendations for young readers. This is our final podcast for 2025, but stay tuned for new and exciting episodes in 2026!

Between the bookshelves - 14. Corey Tutt

In episode 14 of Between the bookshelves, we’re joined byaward-winning author, science communicator, and proud Kamilaroi man, Corey Tutt OAM. As the founder and CEO of DeadlyScience [https://deadlyscience.org.au/], Corey is passionate about connecting young people with Australia’s incredible wildlife and the rich First Nations knowledge that surrounds it. His books - including Caution! This Book Contains Deadly Reptiles, The FirstScientists, and This Book Thinks Ya Deadly! have inspired countless readers to see science in a whole new light. Corey shares his Between the bookshelves pitch for eachof his titles, offering up party-worthy reptile facts, eye-opening First Nations science stories, and a celebration of deadly role models who show young people that their dreams are possible. We dive into the extraordinary process of working with Elders to record or create 68 Indigenous reptile names, and explore why language preservation is as vital as species conservation. Corey also reflects on the role books can play in sparking a lifelong passion for STEM and empowering young readers to protect the environment. Plus, he opens up about the personal journey behind This Book Thinks Ya Deadly! and how it became a beacon of hope for young readers facing tough times. With warmth, humour, and a dash of snake-catching bravado, Corey offers practical inspiration for PRC Coordinators, teachers, parents, and anyone keen to help the next generation find their place in the world of reading, science, and story.

Between the bookshelves - 13. Elisabeth Porreca-Dubois (Teacher librarian)

In this episode, secondary teacher librarian ElisabethPorreca-Dubois [https://www.instagram.com/one_story_building/] shares her journey from PE teacher to a widely respected figure in the teacher librarian community. Known for her vibrant displays and research-informedprograms, Elisabeth offers a wealth of practical strategies for nurturing a reading culture in secondary schools. Listeners will discover the impact of her SMART-ER readingprogram, which empowers students to set specific, individualised reading goals—boosting motivation and engagement across all year levels. From booktrails and bingo cards to personalised recommendations and strategic book displays, Elisabeth reveals how to create meaningful reading experiences that support student success with the PRC and beyond. She also provides valuable advice for first-time PRCCoordinators, outlines strategies to support disengaged readers, and highlights the broader role of the teacher librarian in developing collections, fosteringstudy skills, and encouraging independent reading. With a wealth of insight and actionable ideas, this episode is a rich resource for teacher librarians looking to strengthen reading culture in their own school communities.

Between the bookshelves - 12. Allison Tait

In episode 12 of Between the Bookshelves, we’re joined by best-selling middle grade author and tireless champion of Australian children’s literature, Allison Tait [https://allisontait.com/]. Known for her adventurous stories and rich characters, Allison is also the co-host of the popular Your Kid’s Next Read [https://www.yourkidsnextread.com.au/] podcast and a driving force behind the vibrant Facebook community of the same name. Allison shares her Between the Bookshelves pitch for all of her titles, including her latest release Willow Bright’s secret plot and a sneak peek at her next title, Danger Road. She also offers up her expert recommendations for what young readers should pick up next. We also explore the story behind Your Kid’s Next Read: how it began, why it matters, and the incredible role that community plays in helping families and educators find the right book at the right time. Allison reflects on her own challenges finding books for her child, and why even the most well-read parents need a little help sometimes. Alison also shares practical advice for PRC Coordinators, teacher librarians, classroom teachers and parents working to foster a love of reading. She emphasises the importance of meeting students where they are and helping them build their reading identity. Plus, as the former co-host of So you want to be a writer and co-author of the book by the same name, she shares thoughtful, encouraging tips for young writers ready to tell their own stories. Access the full transcript and show notes on the Listen @ The Arts Unit page [https://artsunit.nsw.edu.au/listen-the-arts-unit/literature-and-language-arts/between-the-bookshelves].

Between the bookshelves - 11. Lili Wilkinson

In episode 11 of Between the Bookshelves, we sit downwith award-winning author Lili Wilkinson [https://www.liliwilkinson.com.au/]—an unstoppable force in Australian young adult and junior fiction. With over 20 books to her name, Lili’s stories range from dark,high-stakes thrillers and rich, spellbinding fantasies to laugh-out-loud junior fiction and heartwarming picture books. Lili shares her Between the Bookshelves pitch for a number of her titles, including her latest releases, Unhallowed Halls and Bravepaw and the Clawstone of Rotwood Mire. Along the way, we chat about the enduring appeal of dark academia for teen readers, resistance witches, ancienttoadmen rituals, and how fantasy can be a powerful tool for critiquing history and reimagining power structures. She also offers a generous list of book recommendations for fans of her work, and reflects on the importance of making space for joy, rebellion, and complex characters - especially in stories for young people. Whether you’re a long-time reader or new to her work, Lili’s insight and energy are as compelling as her books. Access the full show notes and transcript on the Listen @ The Arts Unit page. [https://artsunit.nsw.edu.au/listen-the-arts-unit/literature-and-language-arts/between-the-bookshelves#lili-wilkinson]