Step into the vibrant world of the Ashbury/Brookfield series, where Australian novelist Jaclyn Moriarty spins tales of teenage triumphs and tribulations with wit and heart. This young adult series, set in the contrasting high schools of posh Ashbury High and gritty Brookfield High, captures the rollercoaster of adolescence through innovative epistolary storytelling—think letters, emails, and exam papers brimming with authentic teen voices. Ready to dive into a world where friendships are tested, secrets unravel, and growing up is both hilarious and harrowing?
Moriarty’s unique blend of humor, mystery, and relatable characters has made Ashbury/Brookfield a beloved gem in YA literature, inviting readers to explore the messy, beautiful journey of youth.
How Ashbury/Brookfield Began
Jaclyn Moriarty, a Sydney native with a knack for storytelling, launched the Ashbury/Brookfield series in 2000 with her debut novel, Feeling Sorry for Celia. A former media and entertainment lawyer with degrees from Sydney, Yale, and Cambridge, Moriarty drew inspiration from her love of young adult fiction and her own experiences navigating the complexities of youth. Her literary agent, none other than author Garth Nix, spotted her talent early, propelling her into the spotlight. The series, set in Sydney’s fictional northwest suburbs, was born from Moriarty’s desire to capture the authentic voices of teens through unconventional narrative forms, creating a fresh take on the coming-of-age genre.
The Heart of Ashbury/Brookfield
The series comprises four standalone novels, each linked by the rival schools of Ashbury and Brookfield and a cast of recurring characters. Feeling Sorry for Celia (2000) follows Elizabeth Clarry as she navigates friendship woes and a quirky pen-pal project, blending humor with heartfelt moments. The Year of Secret Assignments (2003) tracks three Ashbury girls—Lydia, Emily, and Cassie—whose letters to Brookfield boys spark secret missions and unexpected bonds. The Murder of Bindy Mackenzie (2006) centers on the brilliant but unraveling Bindy, whose obsessive note-taking leads to a gripping mystery. Finally, The Ghosts of Ashbury High (2009) introduces enigmatic newcomers Amelia and Riley, weaving gothic intrigue and romance through exam essays and journals.
Moriarty’s epistolary style—using letters, diaries, and even exam papers—brings each character’s voice to life, making their struggles with identity, loyalty, and self-discovery feel raw and real. Themes of friendship, social class, and the search for belonging resonate across the series, set against the backdrop of Sydney’s contrasting school cultures. The playful yet poignant tone, paired with clever mysteries, keeps readers hooked, while the standalone nature of each book invites new readers to jump in anywhere.
Why Ashbury/Brookfield Resonates
The Ashbury/Brookfield series has carved a niche in YA literature for its innovative storytelling and relatable portrayal of teenage life. Fans praise Moriarty’s ability to balance humor and heartache, creating characters who feel like real friends. The series’ epistolary format has inspired readers and writers alike, earning accolades like the Aurealis Award and a devoted international following. Its exploration of universal themes—friendship, identity, and the courage to grow—ensures its timeless appeal, making it a must-read for teens and adults nostalgic for their own high school days.
- Publication Years: 2000–2009
- Number of Books: 4
- Awards: Aurealis Award, NSW Premier’s Literary Award nominations
- Setting: Sydney, Australia
Grab Feeling Sorry for Celia and dive into the Ashbury/Brookfield world, where every letter and note pulls you deeper into the messy, marvelous lives of its teens!