The Secret Quest to Jumlatan

Brad Johnston thought a trip to the outback with his archaeologist father, Kel, would be exciting - a concert by his rock-star hero was on the itinerary, after all. But, meeting the celebrity was not the most incredible thing that would happen to him in Alice Springs. Instead, along with his childhood friend, Crystal, and her father Nungari, Brad finds himself caught up in an ages-old battle between unearthly creatures, with the very survival of the planet at stake. Aided by the fearless marsupial-man Bilby, and the chameleon plant-man Makira, they pursue their destiny to aid in the preservation of the planet. Battling the villainous Pitters, the quest takes them from the outback to the monsters' underground realm, and the heights of the Himalayas.


What the Reviewers say:


A very positive novel, its message beautifully reinforced by humour and natural contemporary dialogue. The SECRET – Quest to Jumlatan is an ecological fable that will engage all young readers.

Highly recommended.'


Leigh Blackmore, Editor of Terra Australis (Pan McMillan) and George Turner Prize Judge.


"Eco-warriors, a classic quest and plenty of humour thrown into the mix: The Secret is adventure with a conscience. The combination of cynicism and affection in Brad's relationship to his father is spot-on, while Kel's one-liners brought a smile to my face at even the darkest moments of the tale. Even the non-human characters are engaging - I was horrified to think that the loveable Bilby had perished before the quest was over! An endearing and believable cast all round."


Nansi Kunze, author of Mishaps and Dangerously Placed (Random House)





‘I’ve come to the last page of your book and all I can say at the moment is WOW!’



‘It’s a terrific imaginative work, an Aussie ‘Lord of the Rings’ or an extended Harry Potter for teens.’



‘The kids dialogue is full of wit and banter, which gives a light touch in those many dire situations.’



‘Saving the life of the planet is the ultimate in goals and couldn’t be more relevant!’


Judith Crabtree

Author Illustrator