Book Review, Middle Grade Fiction

How Not to be a Pirate: The Trouble with Curses by Jenny Pearson & illustrated by Paula Bowles

Set sail on a hilarious swashbuckling adventure in Jenny Pearson's new pirate series, 'How Not to be a Pirate'. In this first instalment, readers are introduced to the most fantastic crew: Wilbur, Ellie and Gilbert. Taking their Level One Pirate Grading, they're in a race to find one of the Jewels of the Sea. Typical… Continue reading How Not to be a Pirate: The Trouble with Curses by Jenny Pearson & illustrated by Paula Bowles

Blog Tour, Book Review, Middle Grade Fiction

Help! Aliens Stole My Grandad by Hannah Moffatt ~ Blog Tour

Help! Aliens Stole My Grandad is a zany story of family, loss, space pirates and an incredible adventure to Earth's second moon (made of cheese of course). Harrison's grandpa always wanted to go to space so when he passes away, Dad has an amazing idea. He attaches Grandpa's ashes to a firework and sends it… Continue reading Help! Aliens Stole My Grandad by Hannah Moffatt ~ Blog Tour

Book Review, Chapter Book, Illustrated Fiction, Middle Grade Fiction

Will Shakespeare Mysteries: The Stinky Stolen Toenails by Kaz Penney & illustrated by Sammy Elgie ~ Blog Tour

This hilarious, historical diary-style who-dunnit is perfect for fans of Horrible Histories. Readers are welcomed into the world of a young Will Shakespeare who dreams of becoming the greatest "PERSON WHO SOLVES CRIMES IN THE HISTORY OF THE WORLD". The trouble is, he comes from a dull family in a dull town and has nothing… Continue reading Will Shakespeare Mysteries: The Stinky Stolen Toenails by Kaz Penney & illustrated by Sammy Elgie ~ Blog Tour

Book Review, Middle Grade Fiction

Riley Wright is Always Wrong by Mel Taylor-Bessent & illustrated by Sr. Sanchez

Riley Wright is Always Wrong is the first in a hugely engaging diary series for age 7+. Authentic and completely charming, Riley is a true child of 2026. Set in an accurately hilarious representation of UK primary schools - with varied teacher personalities, BFFs and enemies - readers will feel right at home. This is… Continue reading Riley Wright is Always Wrong by Mel Taylor-Bessent & illustrated by Sr. Sanchez

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