Just So Stories

Hardie Grant

April 2026

Mission Files #4

• ISBN : 9781761217531
• Publisher : Hardie Grant Children’s Publishing
• Imprint : Hardie Grant Children’s

Mission Files #5

• ISBN : 9781761217548
• Publisher : Hardie Grant Children’s Publishing
• Imprint : Little Hare

Mission Files #6

• ISBN : 9781761217555
• Publisher : Hardie Grant Children’s Publishing
• Imprint : Little Hare

I am quite certain I’m not the only one who can say there were times in my libraries when I feared that the Zac Power books would end up in shreds when as one or more was being returned, there would be half a dozen little hands grabbing to be the first to claim it for the next borrowing.

From the very first series (over 15 years ago now!) onwards they were always a hot-ticket item and on a continual ‘refresh’ of buying new copies in my budgets. When later I was able to electrify the kiddos by telling them I am friends with one of the authors, they just about lost their minds – it’s always a gratifying reaction, and I can bask in reflected glory for a while.

Louise Park’s contribution to the series (Test Drive & Spy Camp/Spy Recruit series) is certainly not to be underestimated, as she empowered even younger readers to take up the thrills of Zac. The books have remained consistently popular, many of the titles claiming best seller status, and listed on PRC suggestions. The only surprising thing about the forthcoming animated film is that it took so long!

What could be the only thing more exciting than brand-new editions of Zac bind-ups? A film of course! Scheduled for release in our Xmas holidays (January 7 2027), these bright shiny new books are going to be fiercely contested with your kiddos and see your borrowing stats fly – or you are going to be the best parent/grandparent ever for buying them.

These double-ups combine some of the older series titles and I had great fun re-visiting some of them. Particular favourites for me are: Tomb of Doom [ummm not ‘domb’ as on the back cover?] because who can’t imagine driving a dune buggy across endless sand flat chat? Volcanic Panic with the evil substitute teacher, Ms Sharpe, actually a BIG spy – what the???? and Horror House because transparent purple blobs really have appeal.

The titles are always fabulous, the gadgets and techniques every bit as punny and hilarious as well as useful as any 007 or Alex Rider tool. I mean to say, who couldn’t use a Fandle in a dark place? And no doubt, a SpyPad would be super useful as well!

The liberal illustrations, dynamic fonts and countdowns all add to the excitement. Zac’s unfailing ability to get himself in, and then out of tricky situations, with help as needed if needed, never fails to entertain and astonish readers.

These are going to be a very welcome addition to your collection – just be sure to stand well back from any resulting skirmishes! Highly recommended for readers from around 7/8 years upwards – and no doubt, even older readers will enjoy a light moment of nostalgia for a re-read. A high-five spy 5 🥸🥸🥸🥸🥸rating for these.