Every December, it’s such a joy to take time to look back over all the books I’ve been privileged to read and review on Scope for Imagination. I’d like to share my favourite books of this year – ones that have challenged me, inspired me, made me laugh, and even made me cry. There have been some… Continue reading My Favourite Books of 2025
Perfect for fans of the Mirabelle books by Harriet Muncaster, Grimogen Darkstar is a delightful little grim reaper dreaming of finding the perfect pet. With her cat-ear headband, shimmery mermaid notebook and fluffy pencil, the only thing missing is what she really, really wants - a magical pet. When Immi volunteers at the Howler's Rescue… Continue reading Grimogen Darkstar: Bat-Cat-Tastrophe by Emma Finlayson-Palmer
Blurb: Snow and puppies cause Christmas chaos in a heart-warming animal rescue story set in a cosy village from Carnegie-winner Katya Balen and beloved illustrator Gill Smith - the perfect gift for kids who love pets, animals and all things vets. The Appletree Animal Agency have found three brand-new clients: a terrapin called Algernon, a ginger… Continue reading The Appletree Animal Agency: Collie Chaos by Katya Balen & illustrated by Gill Smith ~ Blog Tour
The Puzzling Paw Prints is the second gorgeous story in Vashti Hardy's The Moonlight Mystery Agency series. Ideal for young readers age 5+, this Barrington Stoke Little Gem is full of adventure, fun and satisfying reading challenge. Agnes Saccani's delightful illustrations bring the relatable story to life. Hana, like many children, is worried about starting… Continue reading The Moonlight Mystery Agency: The Puzzling Paw Prints by Vashti Hardy & Agnes Saccani
Unicorns in Uniform: The Yeti's Sneeze by Tracy Curran & Steve Wood (Uclan Publishing - October 2025) Unicorns in Uniforms: The Yeti's Sneeze is equal parts educational, fantastical and fun. The second book in a new, brightly illustrated chapter book series, it’s a brillliant adventure following the Air and Mountain rescue team as they set out… Continue reading Fun New Books
Rory and the Balloon Bicycles by Louisa MacDougall & illustrated by Giulia Cregut (Little Door Books - May 2025) Rory the dragon and his human bestie, Princess Flora, are back with another wonderful adventure. Happy in his bicycle workshop, Rory loves his unusual life. One day, when flying out to Crunch Canyon, Rory and Flora… Continue reading Engaging Chapter Books
Holly Webb's animal stories are always absolutely perfect. Gentle, educational, heart-warming and empowering, they challenge children to protect wildlife and stand up for what they believe in. The Woodland Badger is another gem. Poppy loves to go out to the nearby allotment with her mum. With the woodland beyond, the gardeners often see birds, foxes… Continue reading The Woodland Badger by Holly Webb
Snails of the Unexpected is a delightfully unique gastropod adventure by Terrie Chilvers. Following the brilliant Michael The Amazing Mind-Reading Sausage Dog series, a pair of determined snails take centre stage as they try to save their way of life and prevent slugs from taking over. Things get political when these slow-moving campaigners reach Downing… Continue reading Snails of the Unexpected by Terrie Chilvers ~ Blog Tour
I adore the Call the Puffins series - perfectly-sized chapter books with charming characters and fun stories that champion teamwork. Set on the Island of Egg, they celebrate wildlife, safety and looking after one another. Children can follow their favourite puffins through each adventure. A series like this is fantastic for newly independent readers as… Continue reading Call the Puffins: Tiny and the Cave Ghost by Cath Howe & Ella Okstad
It's World Down Syndrome Day! We're celebrating by sharing George and the Mini Dragon written by George Webster in collaboration with Helen Harvey and illustrated by Tim Budgen. This is the first book in a delightful new series for age 6+. It’s George’s 7th birthday and his wish list is nothing short of amazing—a magic… Continue reading George and the Mini Dragon by George Webster with co-author Helen Harvey & illustrated by Tim Budgen
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