Katya Balen
Katya Balen is a British author known for her children's books, including 'The Space We're In' and 'October, October'. Her work often explores themes of family, friendship, and resilience.
Books
This list of books are ONLY the books that have been ranked on the lists that are aggregated on this site. This is not a comprehensive list of all books by this author.
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1. Letters From The Upside
Con is a boy struggling with anger and the fallout after his father leaves — his friendships and school life suffer as a result. When his neighbor Mr Williams invites him to help care for a flock of homing pigeons, Con begins to learn responsibility, trust and hope. As he cares for the birds, he starts to imagine they might help him find the connection he’s lost.
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2. The Space We're In
Set against the backdrop of a family navigating the challenges of raising a child with autism, this poignant narrative explores the complexities of sibling relationships and the power of empathy. The story is told through the eyes of Frank, a ten-year-old boy who struggles to understand his younger brother Max, whose world is shaped by his unique needs and behaviors. As Frank grapples with feelings of frustration and love, the family faces unexpected changes that test their resilience and unity. Through heartwarming and sometimes heart-wrenching moments, the tale beautifully captures the essence of familial bonds and the space we create for one another in our lives.
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3. October, October
Set against the backdrop of the wild woods, this enchanting tale follows a young girl who lives with her father in a remote cabin, embracing a life intertwined with nature. Her world is upended when she is forced to move to the city, where she grapples with the stark contrast between her beloved wilderness and the bustling urban environment. Through her journey of self-discovery, she learns to navigate the complexities of change, family, and identity, ultimately finding a way to blend her two worlds and uncovering the strength within herself.
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