Ariel, Zed and the Secret of Life — Anna Fienberg

Ariel had never met anyone who had returned from the Island. Still, her mother said it was a beautiful place, with shiny sand and ancient caves. There was some kind of school there, too, where characters went to learn their proper roles in life. But Concetta had always been a little vague... Deliberately, Ariel thought. Suspiciously.

Ariel and Zed are both a bit weird. They're misfits, reluctant to be thrown together for the holidays. But when they reach the mysterious Island, they soon face dangerous adventures, strange new friends and surprising discoveries about themselves and each other - not to mention the secret of life.

Winner of the Alan Marshall Award, 1993 Victorian Premier's Literary Awards.

'A rich and intricate story, full of humour, imaginative energy and good sense.' - Cathryn Crowe, The Courier-Mail

'A deliciously clever trickle of humour running through sparkling prose.' - Karen Jameyson, The Horn Book