River I Must Be: A beautifully written, thoughtful, and powerful exploration of what it means to be different and how to find the courage to reveal your true self by Kate Foster

A compelling and moving verse novel by award-winning author, Kate Foster, who combines her heart-felt writing with an authentic view of autism and the pressure of masking. And the joy of freeing yourself from that.

Like a river,

I must keep flowing,

finding a way through

if I want to survive.

I will adapt

no matter the pain this causes me.

I will paint on a mask

and hide my struggles.

But can I be strong

like a river?

Rebecca Tapia has started at a prestigious new school and is overwhelmed by the rules and expectations. With her mum away, and her dad facing challenges of his own, Rebecca’s only way of surviving is to mask her autism.

A compelling and moving verse novel by award-winning author Kate Foster, who combines her heartfelt writing with an authentic view of autism and the daily pressure of masking.

And the joy of freeing yourself from that.

About the Author: Kate Foster is an award-winning children’s author writing about friends, family, and dogs. Originally from a small town in the south east of England, she now lives on the stunning Gold Coast in Australia with her family and second-hand dogs. She is passionate about encouraging and teaching a wider understanding of autism and mental illness via positive approach and representation.

28 Jul 2026
 

A River I Must Be: A beautifully written, thoughtful, and powerful exploration of what it means to be different and how to find the courage to reveal your true self: A gorgeously written, thoughtful, and powerful exploration of what it means to be different and how to find the courage to reveal your true self by Kate Foster ISBN 9781460768372