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Ghostlines
A sea-soaked story of friendship, community and discovering what it means to carry home in your heart, from Carnegie Medal-winning author Katya Balen.
On the Island of Ayrie, everybody knows everyone. They know each other's stories as they know every road, every hill and the coming of the tide. In the summer, there are bonfires to celebrate the migration of the puffins. Everything is familiar, nothing much changes, and for Tilda, nothing ever should – it is beautiful, it is perfect and it is home.
When newcomer Albie arrives at the island, Tilda wants to show Ayrie off – Albie wants her to leave him alone. She learns quickly that it'll take more than a tour and some seal viewings to win him around. Then, she remembers stories of the old island just an hour's boat ride away from the shore.
The old island is a death trap. The journey there is treacherous. Trips across to it are strictly forbidden. And there's a rumour it's haunted by the ghosts of those left there to die. But with all else having failed, the old island is the only way for Tilda to make Albie see what she sees in Ayrie.
Besides, it's a different kind of ghost that worries Tilda. The ghost that's been following her, now, since her brother left the island …
On the Island of Ayrie, everybody knows everyone. They know each other's stories as they know every road, every hill and the coming of the tide. In the summer, there are bonfires to celebrate the migration of the puffins. Everything is familiar, nothing much changes, and for Tilda, nothing ever should – it is beautiful, it is perfect and it is home.
When newcomer Albie arrives at the island, Tilda wants to show Ayrie off – Albie wants her to leave him alone. She learns quickly that it'll take more than a tour and some seal viewings to win him around. Then, she remembers stories of the old island just an hour's boat ride away from the shore.
The old island is a death trap. The journey there is treacherous. Trips across to it are strictly forbidden. And there's a rumour it's haunted by the ghosts of those left there to die. But with all else having failed, the old island is the only way for Tilda to make Albie see what she sees in Ayrie.
Besides, it's a different kind of ghost that worries Tilda. The ghost that's been following her, now, since her brother left the island …
278 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 12, 2024
33 people are currently reading
331 people want to read
About the author
Katya Balen
23 books206 followersKatya Balen is a British author of children's literature. She was born in 1989, in London. Her novel
October, October
won the 2022 Carnegie Medal. Her work has also been nominated for the Branford Boase Award and the Wainwright Prize for Children's Writing on Nature and Conservation.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 56 reviews
October 6, 2024
In recent years Katya Balen has written some of the most moving and wonderful children's fiction- stories that dig deep into the emotions and challenges confronted by children. She has also a magical and somewhat ethereal element element woven into her stories.
Ghostlines is a story about belonging, family and identity - linked to the past and the present. We all have ghostlines-those memories, passed-down tales and connections to people and places.
Tilda lives on the island of Ayrie-an idyllic community where everyone knows each other and the seasons and festivals draw a pattern to life. new residents arrive- a mother and her son Albie. But Albie doesn't want to connect - he doesn't want to be on this island 'cut off' from the mainland. Told also carries a sadness - a brother she has not seen in over a year ...he left the island.
Tilda is asked to befriend Albie; it's not aneasy task- Albie isn't interested in the wildlife and the island's people. After struggling to connect with the newcomer, she tells him of a mysterious island nearby that is supposedly haunted. Albie's curiosity is piqued and with Tilda's new kayak they row to the island where cracks appear in Albie's defensive and closed personality.... but this is just the start of an adventure for the duo.
Ghostlines is a beautiful story- all readers will connect with trying to fit into new situations or befriending a newcomer. Emotional, touching and heart warming, Ghostlines is a wonderful read. Perfect for 9-13 year olds- a great Ks2 class read or a book for individuals to escape into. Katya Balen knows how to create irresistible and poignant tales. Where will she take us next?
Highly recommended
Ghostlines is a story about belonging, family and identity - linked to the past and the present. We all have ghostlines-those memories, passed-down tales and connections to people and places.
Tilda lives on the island of Ayrie-an idyllic community where everyone knows each other and the seasons and festivals draw a pattern to life. new residents arrive- a mother and her son Albie. But Albie doesn't want to connect - he doesn't want to be on this island 'cut off' from the mainland. Told also carries a sadness - a brother she has not seen in over a year ...he left the island.
Tilda is asked to befriend Albie; it's not aneasy task- Albie isn't interested in the wildlife and the island's people. After struggling to connect with the newcomer, she tells him of a mysterious island nearby that is supposedly haunted. Albie's curiosity is piqued and with Tilda's new kayak they row to the island where cracks appear in Albie's defensive and closed personality.... but this is just the start of an adventure for the duo.
Ghostlines is a beautiful story- all readers will connect with trying to fit into new situations or befriending a newcomer. Emotional, touching and heart warming, Ghostlines is a wonderful read. Perfect for 9-13 year olds- a great Ks2 class read or a book for individuals to escape into. Katya Balen knows how to create irresistible and poignant tales. Where will she take us next?
Highly recommended
May 3, 2026
This book is about a girl called Tilda who lives on a super cool island called Ayrie. She loves it there: there are puffins, bonfires and she knows every single part of the island. But then this boy Albie moves there with his mom, and he’s like... totally grumpy and hates everything.
Tilda tries to show him how awesome the island is, but he’s not interested. Then she tells him about a secret island nearby that’s supposed to be haunted. That gets his attention! They go there together and it’s kind of scary but also exciting. While all this is happening, Tilda keeps thinking about her brother Rowan, who left the island and never came back. She misses him a lot.
This story is a mix of adventure, feelings and nature stuff. I liked it because it’s got spooky stories and a secret island. Some parts are really exciting, especially the storm and the puffin rescue! The story is about friendship, even when people are really different, and iIt makes you think about family and what “home” means. The characters are nice: Tilda is brave and loves her island. She’s also kind of sad because her brother left, but she doesn’t give up. Albie is annoying at first and doesn’t want to be friends, but he changes a lot. He’s actually pretty cool once you get to know him. Other people on the island are nice and help each other, which is great.
I think Ghostlines is written in a way that’s easy to read but also kind of deep. It's a really good book if you like stories that are a bit mysterious but also about real stuff like feelings and friendship. Plus, puffins are awesome.
Tilda tries to show him how awesome the island is, but he’s not interested. Then she tells him about a secret island nearby that’s supposed to be haunted. That gets his attention! They go there together and it’s kind of scary but also exciting. While all this is happening, Tilda keeps thinking about her brother Rowan, who left the island and never came back. She misses him a lot.
This story is a mix of adventure, feelings and nature stuff. I liked it because it’s got spooky stories and a secret island. Some parts are really exciting, especially the storm and the puffin rescue! The story is about friendship, even when people are really different, and iIt makes you think about family and what “home” means. The characters are nice: Tilda is brave and loves her island. She’s also kind of sad because her brother left, but she doesn’t give up. Albie is annoying at first and doesn’t want to be friends, but he changes a lot. He’s actually pretty cool once you get to know him. Other people on the island are nice and help each other, which is great.
I think Ghostlines is written in a way that’s easy to read but also kind of deep. It's a really good book if you like stories that are a bit mysterious but also about real stuff like feelings and friendship. Plus, puffins are awesome.
January 7, 2026
A good middlegrade book! Enjoyed Ayrie and the people
August 13, 2024
The Ghostlines according to Struan are the safe trails through the sea around Ayrie left by a thousand boats over a thousand years. Tilda never realises just how much she needs to be able to see these ghostlines - not until the day of the storm.
It's the end of the summer on Ayrie, the puffins left the night before and the tourists are leaving on the ferry. Tilda's dad will be back when he has dropped them off, until the Spring when the ferry will run again. But wait, there's a boy and his mum getting off the ferry, and they have bags. No-one comes to live on Ayrie, only locals stay. Well all except one, Rowan didn't stay, he left on this day a year ago. There are only 91 people on Ayrie and that includes an unborn baby, perhaps it's 93 now.
Doesn't take long for everyone to find out, Tilda and her friends from the school (there are 6 in upper primary!) meet for a bonfire because it's Burning Bright Night. The night after the puffins, that make the island so much from tourists all summer, leave. The boy appears on the beach nearby, they call him but he disappears back into the dunes. Tilda goes to the boy's cottage the next day to try to introduce herself, it doesn't go well and she leaves alone.
A few days later Maggie (Albie's mum) and Jenny, (the headteacher and Tilda's mum's best friend) are in Tilda's cottage when she gets back. They have a mission for her, to take Albie around Ayrie, to make him feel at home. She points out they have tried to be friends with him. But Jenny is very flattering and persuasive! And so she agrees - provided there's unlimited cake for picnics though!
Albie is difficult. He has the wrong footwear for scrambling about, he doesn't want to be part of the island. He won't even get in the water at the waterfalls - no swimming shorts, Tilda points out he's wearing shorts but Albie is not getting in. Tilda is struggling. Why can't he see how lovely Ayrie is? But then she couldn't get Rowan to see either, not that summer.
Then Tilda suggests a secret island, a haunted one. Finally, Albie's eyes light up but Tilda isn't actually allowed to go there, the route is dangerous as is the Island.
At the pub, Tilda tells Flora she thinks Albie is rude, Flora seems to understand that it's different on Ayrie so it must be hard for him. Tilda doesn't see why.
The next day they paddle across to the island in Tilda's new sea kayak. She mentions her brother and Albie asks why he wasn't in the pub, she pretends she didn't hear. She tells the story of Davy - the ghost, as Rowan had told her. They make plans for a den. Tilda sends a message to Rowan about Albie and the island. He never answers her messages though. The next morning with the extra needed to build a den they return to the island.
When they get home that day her dad says there's going to be a storm. But before that arrives, Dad wakes her - it's Late Puffins - there's no moon and the town lights are on, they'll go the wrong way. The whole island is there to help, including Albie and Maggie. They release the caught puffins into the sky early in the morning, before the storm arrives. Albie speaks to all of them as he lets them go. Tilda's friends meet Albie properly, and they even start planning a football team. They are all tired and ready to go home when Ramsey says he hopes the storm doesn't pull the puffin babies apart. They all shove him but Albie is looking at the sky.
Tilda goes back to bed, dreams strange dreams and when she gets up....Maggie bursts in asking if he is there Albie is missing and the storm is coming. Tilda tries a few places, but then the beach...her new kayak is gone. What is the right thing to do and what is the wrong thing?
Tilda loves her older brother very much, that is clear. He was seven years older but always included her, but as he got older he pulled away slowly at first. Then there were the rows at home, that last summer he didn't want to be with her at all. But when she needs him she can hear his voice. And so do Mum and Dad.
Tilda loves Ayrie and all of it's people. She is part of the island as are her family, the ghosts of the island are everywhere, treehouses built over generations are looked after and used by all, treasures stashed in rocks and the stories of adventures. Why would Rowan want to leave the island and her? Much less why he doesn't answer her messages, or call, or visit. He is her ghost. Can Albie help Tilda understand why Rowan felt the need to leave?
I (adult) adore Katya's books, I have a collection going (and no children to read them to!). This was one heck of a find in a charity shop because it isn't actually out until the 12th September and is an uncorrected proof copy (naughty person who got this, I'll be keeping it).Having seen the front cover on this page I want a real copy too! Beautiful read, buy it. I mean it has dolphins, haunted islands, family and friends and of course, puffins.
And I've just the titles of two more books on here that are pre-order!
Teaching Assistant, primary
It's the end of the summer on Ayrie, the puffins left the night before and the tourists are leaving on the ferry. Tilda's dad will be back when he has dropped them off, until the Spring when the ferry will run again. But wait, there's a boy and his mum getting off the ferry, and they have bags. No-one comes to live on Ayrie, only locals stay. Well all except one, Rowan didn't stay, he left on this day a year ago. There are only 91 people on Ayrie and that includes an unborn baby, perhaps it's 93 now.
Doesn't take long for everyone to find out, Tilda and her friends from the school (there are 6 in upper primary!) meet for a bonfire because it's Burning Bright Night. The night after the puffins, that make the island so much from tourists all summer, leave. The boy appears on the beach nearby, they call him but he disappears back into the dunes. Tilda goes to the boy's cottage the next day to try to introduce herself, it doesn't go well and she leaves alone.
A few days later Maggie (Albie's mum) and Jenny, (the headteacher and Tilda's mum's best friend) are in Tilda's cottage when she gets back. They have a mission for her, to take Albie around Ayrie, to make him feel at home. She points out they have tried to be friends with him. But Jenny is very flattering and persuasive! And so she agrees - provided there's unlimited cake for picnics though!
Albie is difficult. He has the wrong footwear for scrambling about, he doesn't want to be part of the island. He won't even get in the water at the waterfalls - no swimming shorts, Tilda points out he's wearing shorts but Albie is not getting in. Tilda is struggling. Why can't he see how lovely Ayrie is? But then she couldn't get Rowan to see either, not that summer.
Then Tilda suggests a secret island, a haunted one. Finally, Albie's eyes light up but Tilda isn't actually allowed to go there, the route is dangerous as is the Island.
At the pub, Tilda tells Flora she thinks Albie is rude, Flora seems to understand that it's different on Ayrie so it must be hard for him. Tilda doesn't see why.
The next day they paddle across to the island in Tilda's new sea kayak. She mentions her brother and Albie asks why he wasn't in the pub, she pretends she didn't hear. She tells the story of Davy - the ghost, as Rowan had told her. They make plans for a den. Tilda sends a message to Rowan about Albie and the island. He never answers her messages though. The next morning with the extra needed to build a den they return to the island.
When they get home that day her dad says there's going to be a storm. But before that arrives, Dad wakes her - it's Late Puffins - there's no moon and the town lights are on, they'll go the wrong way. The whole island is there to help, including Albie and Maggie. They release the caught puffins into the sky early in the morning, before the storm arrives. Albie speaks to all of them as he lets them go. Tilda's friends meet Albie properly, and they even start planning a football team. They are all tired and ready to go home when Ramsey says he hopes the storm doesn't pull the puffin babies apart. They all shove him but Albie is looking at the sky.
Tilda goes back to bed, dreams strange dreams and when she gets up....Maggie bursts in asking if he is there Albie is missing and the storm is coming. Tilda tries a few places, but then the beach...her new kayak is gone. What is the right thing to do and what is the wrong thing?
Tilda loves her older brother very much, that is clear. He was seven years older but always included her, but as he got older he pulled away slowly at first. Then there were the rows at home, that last summer he didn't want to be with her at all. But when she needs him she can hear his voice. And so do Mum and Dad.
Tilda loves Ayrie and all of it's people. She is part of the island as are her family, the ghosts of the island are everywhere, treehouses built over generations are looked after and used by all, treasures stashed in rocks and the stories of adventures. Why would Rowan want to leave the island and her? Much less why he doesn't answer her messages, or call, or visit. He is her ghost. Can Albie help Tilda understand why Rowan felt the need to leave?
I (adult) adore Katya's books, I have a collection going (and no children to read them to!). This was one heck of a find in a charity shop because it isn't actually out until the 12th September and is an uncorrected proof copy (naughty person who got this, I'll be keeping it).Having seen the front cover on this page I want a real copy too! Beautiful read, buy it. I mean it has dolphins, haunted islands, family and friends and of course, puffins.
And I've just the titles of two more books on here that are pre-order!
Teaching Assistant, primary
March 31, 2026
This felt like stepping into salt air and staying there a while.
Katya Balen just gets this kind of story. Small places. Big feelings. The quiet ache of growing up without quite realising it’s happening.
Ayrie is one of those settings that wraps around you. Puffins, bonfires, cold water, everyone knowing your name and your story whether you like it or not. It’s soft and wild at the same time. And Tilda belongs to it in that deep, instinctive way children belong to places.
And then Albie arrives. Closed off. Resistant. Not wanting any of it.
I loved that tension. The push and pull between loving a place and rejecting it. Between holding on and letting go.
This is really a story about belonging. But also about the quiet grief of change. Of people leaving. Of things not staying as they were, no matter how much you want them to.
The adventure element is there too. The forbidden island. The sense of danger. That flicker of something almost ghostly. Enough to give it edge without ever losing that warmth at its core.
And the community… I really loved that. It feels rare to see that kind of collective care written without cynicism. It’s gentle. Earnest. It works.
If I’m being honest, it didn’t hit quite as deeply as some of her previous books for me. I could feel what it was reaching for, but it didn’t always fully land with the same emotional weight. At times it felt a little lighter than I wanted it to be.
But still. There is something genuinely lovely here. Thoughtful. wholesome without being shallow. Full of nature and wonder and that restless, in-between feeling of growing up.
4★
A quiet, sea-soaked story about home, and the strange, invisible lines that keep pulling us back to it.
June 15, 2025
Reviewed by Trish Palmer for Bluewolf Reviews and Bloomsbury Publisher AU
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.
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.
April 9, 2026
Island life and friendship.
Always readable and immersive, the love of this island is palpable throughout. Tilda adores her Ayrie home, an island with pools, treehouses, puffins, a community. All that's missing for her is a brother, though we don't know why that is.
Tilda takes it upon herself when she feels affronted at the arrival of a new boy and his mum, when this boy refuses to see the beauty of her island, to join in, to make friends, to fall for the Ayrie she adores, and determines to make him change his mind. Albie is angry though, he didn't want to leave his friends and city home. He doesn't want to be stuck on an island somewhere remote. But Tilda's offer to show him the secret island a boat ride away has him curious, even if it is dangerous...
Lovely story of a growing intimacy and friendship between two pre-teens, the island seems idyllic and you want to beam yourself into the pages and enjoy the magic of the stars, the waves, the pufflings (great word for the babies!).
I am never keen on supernatural elements and there's a small one running through here that wasn't too much, it was appropriate though I thought wasn't really needed.
It's a lovely story and the characters are very likeable for readers. Another animal-based tale that upper primary school kids will enjoy.
For ages 8-13.
Always readable and immersive, the love of this island is palpable throughout. Tilda adores her Ayrie home, an island with pools, treehouses, puffins, a community. All that's missing for her is a brother, though we don't know why that is.
Tilda takes it upon herself when she feels affronted at the arrival of a new boy and his mum, when this boy refuses to see the beauty of her island, to join in, to make friends, to fall for the Ayrie she adores, and determines to make him change his mind. Albie is angry though, he didn't want to leave his friends and city home. He doesn't want to be stuck on an island somewhere remote. But Tilda's offer to show him the secret island a boat ride away has him curious, even if it is dangerous...
Lovely story of a growing intimacy and friendship between two pre-teens, the island seems idyllic and you want to beam yourself into the pages and enjoy the magic of the stars, the waves, the pufflings (great word for the babies!).
I am never keen on supernatural elements and there's a small one running through here that wasn't too much, it was appropriate though I thought wasn't really needed.
It's a lovely story and the characters are very likeable for readers. Another animal-based tale that upper primary school kids will enjoy.
For ages 8-13.
January 17, 2025
This is a fantastic story about friendship, nature, love and loss. It vividly brings alive the atmosphere and surroundings of the island community portrayed here.
When strangers arrive on the island of Ayrie, Tilda and her friends are both amazed and a little excited. Because, while tourists are plentiful during the Puffin season, there are rarely new residents arriving. And one of the newcomers is a boy of her own age!
Unfortunately, Albie seems to dislike being on the island almost as much as Tilda loves it. And that triggers painful memories for her of her brother Rowan's departure from and rejection of the place that she loves so dearly.
Will Tilda have to bear it as history repeats itself, or will the ghost lines of those who have gone before her show her a way to make Albie learn to love the Island and island life as she does?
This is a beautiful story, and one that any reader - especially those belonging to the target age group - would enjoy. Highly recommended, it gets 5 stars.
I received a free copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
When strangers arrive on the island of Ayrie, Tilda and her friends are both amazed and a little excited. Because, while tourists are plentiful during the Puffin season, there are rarely new residents arriving. And one of the newcomers is a boy of her own age!
Unfortunately, Albie seems to dislike being on the island almost as much as Tilda loves it. And that triggers painful memories for her of her brother Rowan's departure from and rejection of the place that she loves so dearly.
Will Tilda have to bear it as history repeats itself, or will the ghost lines of those who have gone before her show her a way to make Albie learn to love the Island and island life as she does?
This is a beautiful story, and one that any reader - especially those belonging to the target age group - would enjoy. Highly recommended, it gets 5 stars.
I received a free copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
January 22, 2025
Gorgeous book for older children, with themes of home and belonging. I loved Balen's writing style, it's not patronising and paints her world beautifully with words. The use of a first person narrator and present tense added a sense of urgency, which worked with the atmosphere of adventure and the frisson of danger in the forbidden secret boat trips and impending storm.
Ghostlines handles relationships really well, from established friendships to building new ones, sibling, parent and community relationships too.
I'm not a fan of using italics for speech, that did grate a little and trip me up but not enough to remove from my enjoyment of the story and the storytelling. Throughout there were repeated uses of and and and in sentences. I read this as an intentional choice to give Tilda the voice of a child. That's how children speak and write, especially at moments when they're excited or anxious.
Ghostlines has a very strong sense of place and I'd heartily recommend it for children reading at that "middle grade" level, 9-12 year olds but with wriggle room depending on tastes and reading abilility.
Ghostlines handles relationships really well, from established friendships to building new ones, sibling, parent and community relationships too.
I'm not a fan of using italics for speech, that did grate a little and trip me up but not enough to remove from my enjoyment of the story and the storytelling. Throughout there were repeated uses of and and and in sentences. I read this as an intentional choice to give Tilda the voice of a child. That's how children speak and write, especially at moments when they're excited or anxious.
Ghostlines has a very strong sense of place and I'd heartily recommend it for children reading at that "middle grade" level, 9-12 year olds but with wriggle room depending on tastes and reading abilility.
October 8, 2024
I really enjoyed this story. The author's lyrical prose perfectly captures the wildness, beauty and freedom of Ayrie, and made me want to live there. Katya Balen is a master of first person present tense. I totally believed I was in the head of a twelve year old girl, and I felt all her pain, her anxieties, and especially her love for the beautiful environment she lives in. The friendship which grows slowly and painfully between Tilda and Albie is done very well, and I felt for him, torn from the life he knew and all his friends, to be brought to a such a small close-knit community.
The only thing that didn't quite work for me was the backstory of Tilda's brother, Rowan, which I didn't find convincing or necessary. But that's a small point and didn't make any difference to my enjoyment of the story.
Ghostlines is a wonderful story of friendship and loss, of home and family, and of the beauty of the world about us.
The only thing that didn't quite work for me was the backstory of Tilda's brother, Rowan, which I didn't find convincing or necessary. But that's a small point and didn't make any difference to my enjoyment of the story.
Ghostlines is a wonderful story of friendship and loss, of home and family, and of the beauty of the world about us.
February 7, 2026
🍂 I stumbled upon Katya Balen when I wanted autumnal books for my reading corner in class and her writing never disappoints. October October remains a personal favourite.
💝 She has a gift for weaving the most complex issues into a few hundred pages and they never fail to give you all the feels and leave you wanting more.
💚 Ghostlines by the incredible Katya Balen💚
🧡Meet Tilda, a fearless young girl, who lives on a small island called Ayrie, with a tight-knit community. She is forged of fire, as nothing dashes her determination and spirit… except for Rowan… (no spoilers)
🖤 Meet Moses, a barking-mad Collie (aren’t they all?) who loves to gift his owners with leeks, turnips and potatoes. Who doesn’t love a neeps and tatties loving dog?! You will fall in love with Moses 💯
💙 Meet Albie, a mainlander, who misses home and hates Ayrie. Will Tilda get him on board and win him over? She sure has the determination.
💗 A fantastic book of self discovery, healing, love and loss. 🌊 5/5 🙌🏽
💝 She has a gift for weaving the most complex issues into a few hundred pages and they never fail to give you all the feels and leave you wanting more.
💚 Ghostlines by the incredible Katya Balen💚
🧡Meet Tilda, a fearless young girl, who lives on a small island called Ayrie, with a tight-knit community. She is forged of fire, as nothing dashes her determination and spirit… except for Rowan… (no spoilers)
🖤 Meet Moses, a barking-mad Collie (aren’t they all?) who loves to gift his owners with leeks, turnips and potatoes. Who doesn’t love a neeps and tatties loving dog?! You will fall in love with Moses 💯
💙 Meet Albie, a mainlander, who misses home and hates Ayrie. Will Tilda get him on board and win him over? She sure has the determination.
💗 A fantastic book of self discovery, healing, love and loss. 🌊 5/5 🙌🏽
March 5, 2026
Longlisted for the York Carnegie Medal. As with the previous books that I have read by this author, her descriptions of nature and the environment are first class. Here we have puffins and an island. This is a book that has adventure and even a little bit of spookiness. Tilda lives on an island called Ayrie and she loves it. She loves the puffins and the bonfire nights, she loves her friends and the freedom to wander wherever she wishes. There are 91 people on the island and everyone works together as a community. However Tilda misses her brother, Rowan, who left the island and never came back. Then Albie and his mother arrive on the island and Tilda is desperate to show him the island but Albie isn’t interested. This is a story of friendship as Tilda and Albie get to know each other. It’s also a sensitive story about the ghostlines that have been left behind by those who have gone before and which connect and guide, which show Tilda the way to reveal the magic of her island to Albie.
April 12, 2026
I have enjoyed a number of Katya Balen’s books recently and this one was no exception.
Her writing is atmospheric and you really get a sense of being immersed in the place where her stories are set.
Tilda lives on the tiny island of Ayrie, which in my mind was on the Scottish west coast. Everyone knows everyone and the man source of income are the summer tourists who come to see the puffin colonies.
Tilda loves her life and just cannot comprehend it when two strangers - Maggie and her son Albie - appear and Albie is full of hatred and resentment for being on the island.
Tilda is tasked with trying to change Albie’s point of view and the two children have to learn to see things from a different perspective.
When Tilda takes Albie to the even smaller Secret Island their adventures take a turn for the dangerous.
This is a beautiful story, driven by likeable characters and a dramatic setting, suitable for 9/10 year olds and up.
Her writing is atmospheric and you really get a sense of being immersed in the place where her stories are set.
Tilda lives on the tiny island of Ayrie, which in my mind was on the Scottish west coast. Everyone knows everyone and the man source of income are the summer tourists who come to see the puffin colonies.
Tilda loves her life and just cannot comprehend it when two strangers - Maggie and her son Albie - appear and Albie is full of hatred and resentment for being on the island.
Tilda is tasked with trying to change Albie’s point of view and the two children have to learn to see things from a different perspective.
When Tilda takes Albie to the even smaller Secret Island their adventures take a turn for the dangerous.
This is a beautiful story, driven by likeable characters and a dramatic setting, suitable for 9/10 year olds and up.
October 18, 2024
Ghostlines is another beautiful novel by Katya Balen. The island of Ayrie is brought to life on the page through the eyes of Tilda, who adores life on the island in all its wildness, freedom and natural beauty. Tilda is a bright, strong-willed and quirky pre-teen, mourning the loss of her older brother, Rowan. Initially it appears that he has died but as the story develops an alternative possibility arises. Albie and his mother arrive on Ayrie. Albie is resentful and determined not to settle. He rebuffs all attempts at friendship but Tilda is given the task of helping him to adjust and a mutually reluctant partnership begins. The intensity of feelings, identity and reluctance to accept change are each explored with a light but poignant touch. The characters are rounded and real; the story is moving; the prose is lyrical. Highly recommended.
May 18, 2025
I have a couple of Katya's books to read already ('October, October' because the cover was gorgeous and 'Foxlight' because it won the Wainwright Prize for kids) and my TBR isn't getting any smaller but as a children's fiction fiend and a massive bird nerd I couldn't possibly resist the exclusive edition of this book with puffins (!!!!) on the sprayed edge. What a novelty to have puffins on the edge of the pages acting as some kind of progress bar to show me how far through the book I was.
The puffins have been restored to their full glory, the book is finished, and I'm so glad I completely judged the book by its cover (or, edges) and gave it a read. I absolutely loved it! Friendship, adventure, puffins, a haunted island, a dog, a bath full of kittens - what's not to like?!
I can't wait to dive into those other books!
The puffins have been restored to their full glory, the book is finished, and I'm so glad I completely judged the book by its cover (or, edges) and gave it a read. I absolutely loved it! Friendship, adventure, puffins, a haunted island, a dog, a bath full of kittens - what's not to like?!
I can't wait to dive into those other books!
March 16, 2026
3.5* rounded up to 4.
This would be ideal for upper primary students. The joy Tilda finds in her life on Ayrie fair jumps off the page. I am sure there will be lots of readers keen to go see puffins after picking this book up. Whereas her brother, Rowan, hated the isolation and lack of opportunities Tilda thrives on the independence it brings. She knows every inch of her island home and spends her days roaming across it or kayaking in the sea with her gang of friends.
When newcomer Albie arrives with his mum, Tilda is delighted to have someone new to introduce the island to. But Albie has no wish to be on Ayrie, nor to make friends. I am sure you can guess how the story plays out from there. For younger readers who haven't read plenty of stories like this before, it will be a delight. For older readers, the setting gives freshness to the familiar story and the descriptions of the island and the wildlife are beautiful so it's still well worth a read.
This would be ideal for upper primary students. The joy Tilda finds in her life on Ayrie fair jumps off the page. I am sure there will be lots of readers keen to go see puffins after picking this book up. Whereas her brother, Rowan, hated the isolation and lack of opportunities Tilda thrives on the independence it brings. She knows every inch of her island home and spends her days roaming across it or kayaking in the sea with her gang of friends.
When newcomer Albie arrives with his mum, Tilda is delighted to have someone new to introduce the island to. But Albie has no wish to be on Ayrie, nor to make friends. I am sure you can guess how the story plays out from there. For younger readers who haven't read plenty of stories like this before, it will be a delight. For older readers, the setting gives freshness to the familiar story and the descriptions of the island and the wildlife are beautiful so it's still well worth a read.
July 19, 2025
I was absolutely swept away. The whole essence and spirit of this book was hypnotic and I loved the entire story. The writing was so immersive, atmospheric and alive, it was so easy to imagine yourself on the island with Tilda - and it sounded like such a beautiful place.
Discovering it with Albie was lovely. He’s just moved from the Mainland and he’s finding the whole adjustment difficult. Tilda is on the case, to introduce him to her absolute favourite place in the world and all of its wonders! And maybe a fair few friendships will be forged along the way.
Ah, the whole book was just so lovely and I’ve never read anything by this author before but now I want to read all of her books!
Discovering it with Albie was lovely. He’s just moved from the Mainland and he’s finding the whole adjustment difficult. Tilda is on the case, to introduce him to her absolute favourite place in the world and all of its wonders! And maybe a fair few friendships will be forged along the way.
Ah, the whole book was just so lovely and I’ve never read anything by this author before but now I want to read all of her books!
April 7, 2026
3⭐️
I didn’t really like the style of writing and I thought that there were too much “and” but not enough commas. I didn’t really like the way that there weren’t speech marks when characters spoke so it made it a bit difficult to understand sometimes. With the character Rowan it wasn’t really clear whether he was dead or he had just gone away or if he was her brother. The resolution was really fast and felt a bit rushed. The story had a nice concept and the moral of accepting change was nice. I like how the "ghostlines" symbolise connections to people that aren’t physically there but there are still memories that remain. The cover art is stunning and overall this was a quick read and a nice story I just think It could have been executed a bit better.
I didn’t really like the style of writing and I thought that there were too much “and” but not enough commas. I didn’t really like the way that there weren’t speech marks when characters spoke so it made it a bit difficult to understand sometimes. With the character Rowan it wasn’t really clear whether he was dead or he had just gone away or if he was her brother. The resolution was really fast and felt a bit rushed. The story had a nice concept and the moral of accepting change was nice. I like how the "ghostlines" symbolise connections to people that aren’t physically there but there are still memories that remain. The cover art is stunning and overall this was a quick read and a nice story I just think It could have been executed a bit better.
February 20, 2025
Fabulous book!
Katya really brings Island life to life - the weather affects everything and the MC’s passion and love for her home is there on every page.
It’s a fab story too - the secret, haunted island, the puffins and all the time this tender new friendship whilst she grieves the loss of her older brother who has made a new life on the mainland.
The only bit I questioned was why she thought it was her fault that her brother had gone.
Very atmospheric and beautifully written (obviously), I strongly recommend it!
Katya really brings Island life to life - the weather affects everything and the MC’s passion and love for her home is there on every page.
It’s a fab story too - the secret, haunted island, the puffins and all the time this tender new friendship whilst she grieves the loss of her older brother who has made a new life on the mainland.
The only bit I questioned was why she thought it was her fault that her brother had gone.
Very atmospheric and beautifully written (obviously), I strongly recommend it!
March 4, 2025
Another beautiful book from Katya Balen. Tilda lives on a Scottish Isle and thinks it’s heaven. Everyone knows everyone, it’s a pretty simple life and it’s all she’s ever known. She’s surprised when a newcomer to the island isn’t interested and instead of giving up she makes it her mission to make him love it. In desperation she goes for taking him to a local island they are all forbidden from going to. You sense there’ll be trouble but you have to read it to find out! Famous Five in a way, its adventure and intrigue would be a lovely readaloud for year 5/6s.
March 18, 2026
Balen delivers, yet again. A very strong contender for the winner of the Carnegie this year, for sure. I loved reading this and the themes it discusses. It definitely struck something in me - maybe because I'm somebody who left a small island and sometimes goes back and sees it with almost new eyes; maybe because I used to live in Scotland and have been to several small islands around the British coast and have seen how truly beautiful they can be and so it was very easy to visualize. Regardless, I really enjoyed this one.
April 16, 2026
Read as part of Carnegie Shadowing
Ok. So objectively, this is a lovely read for KS2-KS3. I really like Tilda: her voice, her story, her life on the island. Albie is also a very relatable young man.
However.
I have read most of Katya Balens' books and for some reason, they just don't seem to do for me what it does to other readers. I don't know if I'm just too old or if I've read too many books in this age bracket as part of my job, but I just don't quite see what other people see. The books are pleasant but I'm not sure I see cause for the excessive praise and awards.
Ok. So objectively, this is a lovely read for KS2-KS3. I really like Tilda: her voice, her story, her life on the island. Albie is also a very relatable young man.
However.
I have read most of Katya Balens' books and for some reason, they just don't seem to do for me what it does to other readers. I don't know if I'm just too old or if I've read too many books in this age bracket as part of my job, but I just don't quite see what other people see. The books are pleasant but I'm not sure I see cause for the excessive praise and awards.
October 4, 2024
I adored Ghostlines!
Such a beautiful story about life on an island. When a new family arrive Tilda immediately wants to get to know the new boy but he doesn't seem to love the island as much as she does.
It's an interesting way to deal with move and change and the viewpoint of the story is always Tildas. Via Tilda we learn about her loss, about Albie's loss and see how their friendship grows and develops.
Very glad to have had a copy from Netgalley to read.
Such a beautiful story about life on an island. When a new family arrive Tilda immediately wants to get to know the new boy but he doesn't seem to love the island as much as she does.
It's an interesting way to deal with move and change and the viewpoint of the story is always Tildas. Via Tilda we learn about her loss, about Albie's loss and see how their friendship grows and develops.
Very glad to have had a copy from Netgalley to read.
February 21, 2026
Again, Katya Balen stuns me as a reader with her poignant, gentle approach to the difficult transitions in life. She is SO good at carrying a reader through foreign, yet oh-so-familiar territory. The beautiful (sometimes terrible) steps we take as we traverse between childhood and adulthood, the push and pull of saying goodbye, the terror and joy of change…
She walks both sides, shares each perspective and helps us see ourselves and others, which is a GIFT.
She walks both sides, shares each perspective and helps us see ourselves and others, which is a GIFT.
March 27, 2026
Sounded promising but the writing was poor. The author chose to use present tense which killed this story, and the main character was too reflective which made her boring. She couldn’t look at anything without running a line of thoughts to the past, it came over as immature story telling and pretentious. Ditched at 10% which was a shame but I just couldn’t stomach the dull self-conscious writing style
March 31, 2026
I am a huge fan of this author and this is no disappointment. A beautiful story of family, friendship, acceptance, and belonging. Told from the POV of Tilda, who is struggling to deal with her brother having left the remote island they live on, this is also the story of Albie, reluctantly moved to the island from the mainland. They both embark on an adventure that enables them to discover more about themselves and those they love. It is so beautifully told with insight and empathy. It's also a love letter to the remote island landscape, vividly imagined here. I just loved it.
November 24, 2024
Blown away as always by Katya Balens writing. The nature aspects are stunning and the story equally as beautiful. Not sure how she does it but as usual find myself fighting back a tear at certain points. The cover illustration by Jill Calder is equally as stunning and the HB version is an absolute treat to hold. An easy 5stars from me ❤️
April 14, 2025
Can't believe this story... It lost me in parts and then kept coming back together to make an incredible story! She had some beautiful figurative language throughout even though the lack of full stops and speech marks hurt my head at times. This is a beautiful tale of friendship and understanding others perspective, told in a way that is inclusive and honouring to everyone. Just wonderful!
May 12, 2025
I really enjoyed this and I loved Tilda. Tilda is a wild girl and she loves where she lives (and it sounds amazing!). Moses (the dog) is hilarious, always by Tilda's side and often with some kind of vegetable! A wonderful book and Katya has built an amazing would but there is a map in the front if you need it. A great story and great characters.
January 18, 2025
Loved this. Listened to the audio and was so gripped listened not just in the car, as is my usual!
Great storyline about identity, community, family. Loved the writing style (my 1st Katya Balen book). Writing is emotive, real and detailed.
Beautiful setting, great characters.
Great storyline about identity, community, family. Loved the writing style (my 1st Katya Balen book). Writing is emotive, real and detailed.
Beautiful setting, great characters.
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