BRAINJACK by BRIAN FALKNER

Brian Falkner

Brian was born in Auckland in 1962 and has worked as a radio journalist, radio copywriter, a computer consultant and a graphic designer before embarking on a writing career.

Brian has aimed his novels at the intermediate, young adult male audience with his first novel ,"Henry and the Flea" [2003] centering around a 12 year old boy who wants to play professional rugby league. I have not read the book myself but it has been described as a 'spiffing read'.

In 2004 Brian's next book - "The real Thing" is an action packed novel about the coca-cola industry and what happens when 3 people who know the secret formula for coca-cola are kidnapped. Again the central character is a young boy. "

Super Freak" [2005], follows the story of Jacob John smith, a teenager who can not stay out of trouble.

"Tomorrow Code"[2008], is classed as a young adults book because the protagonists are teenagers. It's an exciting, thought provoking sci-fi book about real science and transmissions through time.

Brian's latest book "Brainjack" has been listed for the 2010 NZ post children's book awards.

Matamata Library are following Brian falkner's blog

To see if Brian is the winner of the young adult fiction section of the NZ post book awards click here

Banquo's Son by T.K.Roxborough

Here's another book review taken from the NZpost book awards, young adult section finalists. Banquo's Son has been reviewed by a teenage boy.

A real page turner, keeping you hooked until the very end. Banquo’s son is a great book with something for everyone. Action and adventure from Fleance’s great escape to stunning sword fights. But not without romanic flair or thrills this is definitely a must read. I really enjoyed all the action and how the book never stopped moving.

For more information about the sequel to Macbeth click here

End of the Alphabet by Fleur Beale

Following on from my last posting, this book has been listed as one of the finalists in the young adult fiction section. My 13 year old daughter was happy to write a review for me. How about some comments as to whether you agree with her or not.


End of the alphabet is an adventurous story about a young girl called Ruby, who finds out how to stand up for herself, and how to overcome her ‘embarrassing’ learning disability.

With her family drifting apart, her spoilt brother running away and her friends ignoring her, Ruby decides to get some ‘backbone.’ Read about the exciting life of Ruby Yarrow.

I really enjoyed this book….. So much that I read it twice! It shows that you can stand up for yourself and that people do care.
I hope you enjoy this book as much as I have!