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Cover of Taronga

Taronga

Victor Kelleher (1986)

SubgenreLow Fantasy
Age groupYA 12-17
Content ratingPG-13
Pages (Quick Read (<250))
Setting
CSM age13
Goodreads3.47

Content levels

ViolenceModerate
Sexual contentNone
LanguageMild

Hero archetypes

OrphanOutcast / Loner

Synopsis

Two years after the Last Days, Australia has become a dangerous place, and a battle-ground for survival.Ben, who has a telepathic ability to control animals, leads a hazardous existence in the bush west of the Blue Mountains. Hopeful of a less brutal life, he escapes to Sydney - only to be further disillusioned. Then, at the heart of the city he comes upon Taronga Zoo, which has been strangely unaffected by the general chaos. Or has it? Is it an island of safety in the midst of so much danger? Or is it really the most sinister place of all?

Is Taronga appropriate for my child?

Suitable for most readers 13 and up.

Set in post-apocalyptic Australia, this story contains moderate violence related to survival in a lawless world and depicts dangerous situations. The protagonist's telepathic bond with animals adds a unique fantasy element to the dystopian setting.

What to know going in

This book has moderate violence, no sexual content, and mild language. Content notes include death, animal harm, and violence (see the full list above).

Who'll love this

Teens will be drawn to Ben's special ability to communicate with animals and his struggle to survive in a dangerous, collapsed world.

Tags

Post-ApocalypticDystopianScience FictionAustralian Fiction