Ghostlines

 Ghostlines

Reviewed By  Grasshopper2       September 2, 2025

 

Author  Katya Balen

Distributor:      Bloomsbury Publishing
ISBN:                 9781526663887
Publisher:         Bloomsbury Publishing; Bloomsbury Children's Books
Release Date:   2 September 2025  

Website:    https://www.bloomsbury.com/au/ghostlines-9781526663887/ 

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Tilda lives on the island of Ayrie with her father and mother. She leads an idyllic life, swimming in the fairy pools, having bonfires on the beach with other kids and exploring every nook and cranny of the beautiful place she calls home. The lifestyle is one of freedom and choice. All is well in Tilda’s life except for the missing Rowan. On the day the island farewells the tourists who have come to see the puffins, two people alight from the boat. As it is the end of the season this is strange.

Tilda is curious about the new people, but the small population on the island ensures that everyone soon knows that the woman and her son have rented a cottage for the winter months. Tilda is happy with her life and her father has just bought her a kayak to join him when exploring the island coast. The girl’s parents have found out a little information about the newcomers and ask Tilda if she will befriend the boy and help him find his bearings on this strange place.

Albie does not want to be on the island, does not want to be separated from his friends, his school, or his neighbourhood. He is miserable and just wants the bright lights of the mainland. Tilda tries to interest him in the wonders of her place, the caves, the inland pools, and the magical beach bonfires. Albie is stubborn and doesn’t believe anything can match his city home.

Katya Balen writes a descriptive and sensitive story in Ghostlines which resonates with most of us. Her passion for the free spirit and open spaces is conveyed is the most joyous way. Her stories challenge our thinking and encourage acceptance of people with different values.

Childrens, Fiction