Alexandra Adornetto is an Australian writer recognized for her works aimed at children and young adults. Her literary output includes the fantasy series "The Strangest Adventures," the "Halo" trilogy, and "The Ghost House Saga."

Adornetto's "The Strangest Adventures" series delves into the vulnerability of childhood, with "The Shadow Thief" exploring the concept of individuality and spirit through a narrative where shadows are stolen for immortality. "The Lampo Circus" continues this theme with children facing kidnapping and a battle for a fairy province. The "Halo" trilogy, her American debut, features angels battling demons in a contemporary setting, with one angel falling in love with a human. The "Ghost House Saga" introduces a protagonist who reconnects with ghosts after her mother's death, forming a bond with a centuries-old spirit.

Alexandra Adornetto's writing for young adults often grapples with profound themes presented through fantastical narratives. Her "The Strangest Adventures" series, for instance, directly addresses concerns about the erosion of childhood and innocence. Adornetto has articulated a desire to capture the essence of childhood in her work, viewing it as a precious state threatened by external forces. This is exemplified in "The Shadow Thief," where the literal theft of shadows symbolizes the loss of individuality and spirit, a concept Adornetto finds deeply significant. Similarly, the "Halo" trilogy introduces a cosmic struggle between angelic forces and demonic entities, exploring the complexities of divine beings interacting with the human world and the consequences of defying celestial laws.

The supernatural and esoteric are central to Adornetto's "The Ghost House Saga." The first installment, "Ghost House," published as "Lament" in the UK, centers on a young woman who regains the ability to see ghosts after experiencing grief. Her encounter with Alexander Reade, a spirit from the past, suggests a fascination with lingering presences and their impact on the living. The narrative hints at dark secrets and vengeful spirits, drawing upon classic gothic and supernatural tropes. The "Halo" trilogy also directly engages with celestial beings—angels and demons—and their conflict, placing these otherworldly entities within relatable contemporary settings and exploring their influence on human lives.

“Childhood is just this amazing place and in my books I was trying to express my concern about childhood being eroded.”

“The shadow represents individuality and colour and a person's spirit, really.”