Book Review, Middle Grade Fiction, Picture Books

Christmas is Coming!

Murder at Christmas by Fleur Hitchcock (Nosy Crow) Join Grace and Billy in a delightfully cosy hotel mystery. Their family has been split up across the world - Mum and Billy in Australia while Grace attends a boarding school in the UK. Now they're back together for Christmas at Aunt Mollie's fancy hotel in Bath.… Continue reading Christmas is Coming!

Book Review, Middle Grade Fiction

Finn’s Epic Fails by Phil Earle

Finn's Epic Fails is a change of direction from Phil Earle's recent historical fiction masterpieces. More in line with books like Demolition Dad and Northern Soul, it is a warm-hearted, comedy delight! Al Murphy's fantastic illustrations add an extra layer of laughs, putting readers right in the middle of the story. Finn is struggling with… Continue reading Finn’s Epic Fails by Phil Earle

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

Aliens Made Me Do It by David Macphail, illustrated by Rory Walker ~ Blog Tour

Aliens Made Me Do It is a hilarious story of bizarre aliens, everyday kids and saving the world! I'm delighted to welcome author David Macphail to Scope for Imagination with a guest post about why humour is such a powerful tool when writing for children. This book is definitely one that will bring readers together… Continue reading Aliens Made Me Do It by David Macphail, illustrated by Rory Walker ~ Blog Tour

Book Review, Middle Grade Fiction, Picture Books

Looking Forward to Spooky Season!

Autumn is my favourite season - new beginnings, cozy jumpers and so many special days! This fantastic collection of books will put you in the mood for crisp October weather and gentle spooks. Grumpkin by Nicola Edwards & Sian Roberts (Little Tiger - August 2025) Grumpkin made me smile the very first time I saw… Continue reading Looking Forward to Spooky Season!

Blog Tour, Book Review, Graphic Novel

Happy Hills: Mr Big Fluff Rules by Sophy Henn ~ Blog Tour

It's time for the third instalment in the delightful Happy Hills graphic novel series by Sophy Henn! Join Ace, Shroomer, Mimi and Sparks as they strive to protect their beloved home from Mr Big Fluff - the baddest hamster around. Mr Big Fluff doesn't feel very happy so he decides to steal the happiness from… Continue reading Happy Hills: Mr Big Fluff Rules by Sophy Henn ~ Blog Tour

Blog Tour, Book Review, Chapter Book

Snails of the Unexpected by Terrie Chilvers ~ Blog Tour

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

Book Review, Middle Grade Fiction

Brilliant Books by Jenny Pearson (Bigfoot and the Wild Boys & The Race Against Crime)

Jenny Pearson's stories are always an absolute delight with true-to-life characters dealing with issues in unique, laugh-out-loud ways. This Christmas break has brought two new books from Barrington Stoke and Usborne that are a joy to read and perfect for children of all ages. Bigfoot and the Wild Boys (Barrington Stoke) - January 2025 Joe… Continue reading Brilliant Books by Jenny Pearson (Bigfoot and the Wild Boys & The Race Against Crime)

Blog Tour, Book Review, Graphic Novel

Happy Hills: Knick Knacks Attack by Sophy Henn

The brilliant Happy Hills gang is back in Knick Knacks Attacks. In this off-the-wall, one-of-a-kind adventure, the town is turned upsidedown when the villainous Knick Knacks swoops in. He's determined to capture a group of friends for himself (rather than actually being nice and getting to know them). His evil plans are successful and he… Continue reading Happy Hills: Knick Knacks Attack by Sophy Henn

Blog Tour, Book Review, Middle Grade Fiction

Ministry of Mischief by Alex Foulkes ~ Blog Tour

Ministry of Mischief by Alex Foulkes is a laugh-out-loud story that is definitely over-flowing with mischief! Full of voice and personality, it values being yourself and embracing every bit of an over-active imagination. Joey and Harry do not like each other! When they get stuck together on a school trip to the Abermaple Museum, things… Continue reading Ministry of Mischief by Alex Foulkes ~ Blog Tour

Book Review, Middle Grade Fiction

Dreadwood: Terror Tower by Jennifer Killick

Club Loser is back where it all began - a Saturday detention, Dread Wood and a high-stakes battle with the creepiest couple around. The woods are full of some really weird caterpillars with gigantic teeth and a taste for meat. Mr Hume, their very suspicious headteacher, downplays the danger but it's clear something's not right.… Continue reading Dreadwood: Terror Tower by Jennifer Killick