Taronga

"Taronga" is a compelling young adult science fiction novel set in a post-apocalyptic Australia, two years after an unspecified global war. It follows Ben, a resourceful teenager with a unique telepathic ability to communicate with animals. The story details his perilous journey back to Sydney, where he hopes to find safety at Taronga Zoo. However, he discovers the zoo is controlled by a ruthless community leader, Molly, who exploits both people and animals. Ben, alongside a new friend Ellie, must confront Molly and rival gangs to protect the animals and establish a truly just community. This book explores themes of survival, morality, leadership, and the bond between humans and animals, offering a gritty yet ultimately hopeful narrative.

Life in the Last Days period after a nuclear war is difficult for Ben, but he manages to overcome the corruption he finds by using his telepathic ability to communicate with the animals in Taronga Zoo.