Book Review, Chapter Book, Middle Grade Fiction

My Favourite Books of 2025

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

Book Review, Non-fiction Books

Nonfiction November 2025

Spend time with some fantastic nonfiction this November! My Small World: Frozen by Caryl Hart & Harry Woodgate (Simon & Schuster) Presented in a lyrical, picture book style, My Small World: Frozen takes readers age 3+ on a journey to a world full of ice, snow and sea. Arctic and Antarctic environments are presented through… Continue reading Nonfiction November 2025

Blog Tour, Book Review, Picture Books

The Family Tree by Yasmine Anane & Mark Beech ~ Blog Tour

Synopsis: When Mole sets off in search of his family tree, he dreams of finding others just like him. But as he journeys through the enchanted wood, he learns something even more magical: true family isn’t about looking the same – it’s about the bonds we build and the love we share with those around us. The Family Tree is a delightful journey story. Mole, tired of being alone,… Continue reading The Family Tree by Yasmine Anane & Mark Beech ~ Blog Tour

Book Review, Chapter Book

Grimogen Darkstar: Bat-Cat-Tastrophe by Emma Finlayson-Palmer

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

Blog Tour, Book Review, Chapter Book

The Appletree Animal Agency: Collie Chaos by Katya Balen & illustrated by Gill Smith ~ Blog Tour

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

Blog Tour, Book Review, Guest Post, Middle Grade Fiction

The Feathered Book by Charlie Nutbrown ~ Blog Tour

Everything With Words - 11th September 2025 Embrace the mystery of The Feathered Book! Lose yourself in the unknown, search for clues and absorb the magic. This story will have readers captivated from start to finish. It's my pleasure to welcome author Charlie Nutbrown with a guest post about why children should read detective fiction.… Continue reading The Feathered Book by Charlie Nutbrown ~ Blog Tour

Book Review, Picture Books

War Dog by Tom Palmer & Carolina Rabei

If you choose one new book for Remembrance Day this year, make it this one. War Dog, written by master of children's historical fiction, Tom Palmer, and illustrated by the incredibly talented Carolina Rabei, is a beautiful account of the true story of Judy the dog. Published just ahead of the 80th anniversary of VJ… Continue reading War Dog by Tom Palmer & Carolina Rabei

Book Review, Picture Books

Delightful Picture Books

The Great Nut Hunt by Karl Newson & Nia Havilliard (Scholastic - August 2025) There's something so delightful about squirrel stories! These cute, charming creatures are always on the go and always in some sort of trouble. In The Great Nut Hunt, Squirrel has collected too many nuts. When they won't fit in his tree,… Continue reading Delightful Picture Books

Book Review, Non-fiction Books, Picture Books

Making Connections with Nature

Nature Heroes by Lily Dyu (Nosy Crow - June 2025) Nature Heroes is a fascinating collection of twenty biographies about significant individuals who work hard to protect our world. While some humans are destroying nature through their actions, these heroes are standing up to the threats facing plant Earth and inspiring others to do the… Continue reading Making Connections with Nature

Activity Books, Book Review, Chapter Book

Engaging Chapter 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