Balen has written yet another gorgeous book. Ghostlines is a beautiful, wild and brilliantly crafted novel about loss, friendship and the healing power of nature. It's funny too! I absolutely loved it.

Sarah Crossan

An accomplished tale, tenderly told

The Times

A thrilling emotionally charged adventure, full of authentic characters, peril, humour and warmth in which the children discover the true nature of home and family

Daily Mail

This dramatic, nervy, passionate island-and-friendship story is about facing up to what's uncomfortable and challenging and becoming all the more alive by doing so ... Superb!

Kevin Crossley-Holland

It's becoming clear that Katya Balen is a modern great of children's writing. Perfection is, of course, unobtainable but, exciting, moving and beautifully written, Ghostlines comes close

Anthony McGowan

I loved this book. It's beautifully written, full of heart. The voice of the main character Tilda springs off the page with vivid life. It's a touching and tender story about the true meaning of home and community. Young readers will love the island setting, the puffins, the sea-kayak adventure to the secret island and the hideaway shelter Tilda and Albie build together. Brilliant.

Julia Green