This episode includes a discussion of This Stays Between Us by Margot McGovern, a contemporary young adult horror novel that explores friendship, fear, and power. It also references other reading and text recommendations such as:

• Neverland by Margot McGovern
• Northern Lights by Philip Pullman
• Frankenstein by Mary Shelley
• Blade Runner (1982)
• The Chosen Vessel by Barbara Baynton (short story)
• Picnic at Hanging Rock by Joan Lindsay
• Lake Mungo (2008)
• Talk to Me (2022)

Also discussed are:

• The ways in which Margot has attempted to fill a gap in the market, including setting her horror novel in a distinctly Australian landscape;
• How reimagining the trope of the “final girl” can challenge the male gaze in horror by creating complex, emotionally authentic female protagonists;
• The exploration of friendship, secrets, consent, misinformation, and fear in the novel, and how these issues will resonate strongly with today’s students;
• Why its 48-hour timeframe, along with the use of foreshadowing, pacing, and symbolism, makes it ideal for studying narrative craft and genre conventions;
• Advocacy for open, supportive classroom discussions around trauma and consent, supported by clear content awareness;
• And, as always, the importance of teaching contemporary local texts to reflect and expand students’ understanding of Australian identity.