Katya Balen on The Appletree Animal Agency and the best animal books for kids

We’re thrilled to be sending Collie Chaos by Katya Balen and illustrated by Gill Smith to our Parakeet subscribers this month - a heart-warming, snow-filled story that’s perfect for young animal lovers and newly independent readers. The second book in The Appletree Animal Agency series, Collie Chaos follows Mattie and her friends as they brave a snowstorm to rescue a missing dog - and discover another creature in need along the way. With its cosy village setting, festive feel, and lovable cast of pets, this charming early chapter book is a perfect winter read for families with kids aged 5+. To celebrate its release, we sat down with Carnegie Medal–winning author Katya Balen to chat about her inspiration, her favourite furry friends, and what’s next for the Appletree Animal Agency.

What inspired you to write the Appletree Animal Agency series?

My greatest dream when I was Mattie’s age was to run my very own animal rescue – but as a child right now, not when I was a boring grown-up! So these books are a kind of wish-fulfilment, which is always such a fun way to write and create.

Which animal would you most like to adopt and why?

I would like to adopt a dog just like my old Battersea lurcher, Raffi. He was so sweet and loyal and loving. He’d had a hard life before we rehomed him, and he was just so happy to be loved.

What do you think the AAA members learn in Collie Chaos?

I think they learn that the best laid plans don’t always work out, and that that’s OK. It’s how you react to things going wrong that matters the most.

What research did you do for the book and did you learn anything that surprised you?

I’ve learned lots of weird animal facts that don’t always make it into the book! I think the fact that terrapins can live to be 40 years old blew my mind! Quite a commitment to get one as a pet!

Can you tell us anything about what the future holds for Mattie and her friends?

There’s always something happening in Mossdale, and there are always animals needing their perfect homes! I’m sure Mattie is going to be kept very busy.

Why did you choose to write books for this age group?

I think it’s such an exciting age to be a reader. You’re probably just starting to read stories all on your own, and maybe even write them too. Your imagination is brilliant and wild and so ready for a million different adventures. I love being part of that.

 Do you have a favourite place to write?

I’d like to say something grand like a secret library, or cool like Mattie’s treehouse. But usually, I’m happiest on the sofa with my little whippet Mouse curled up next to me.

Which other books for young animal-lovers would you recommend our subscribers read next?

Gill Lewis’ Island Vet series is fabulous, and for some non-fiction Jess French’s Pets and their People. I also LOVED the Animal Ark books when I was little!

Copies of our Collie Chaos pack, including a copy of the book and loads of fun activities to go with it, are now available for individual purchase. Grab a copy while stocks last!

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