Seven years ago, I discovered the beauty and wonder of The House with Chicken Legs as a part of the outstanding collection of stories shortlisted for the 2019 Leeds Book Awards. It was this group of books and authors that inspired me to begin exploring the depths of children literature in the UK and start… Continue reading The House with Chicken Legs Runs Away by Sophie Anderson & illustrated by Elisa Paganelli
With a clear, authentic voice, Boy vs Reality takes a critical look at online fame vs everyday family life. Author James Fox encourages readers to consider the truth of what they're seeing online, underlying messages, potential bias and the real person behind the lens. Questions about children's consent, celebrity families and the role social media… Continue reading Boy vs Reality by James Fox
The Blitz Sisters is a lovely story of how three sisters try to make sense of life and do their best to carry on through all the challenges of the Second World War. With gas masks to contend with, fear of evacuation and new hardships as war is declared, Lydia, Peggy and Teddy are forced… Continue reading The Blitz Sisters by Judith Eagle
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
Hedley is having a really hard time. Since he lost his mum in an accident, he and his little sister Lilly have been spending weekends at Bridlebank Therapy Activities Centre. Their dad just isn't coping; he struggles to get out of bed and can't even begin to meet their needs. At the centre, Hedley does… Continue reading The Not-So Great Escape by Emma Green
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!
Sarah Ann Juckes consistently writes incredibly heartfelt stories full of real emotion, unforgettable characters and the healing power of nature. In Robin, readers get to know Eddie. He's the "sorry boy" - always apologising, always making himself smaller, always being good and positive and hopeful - always making way for his poorly sister. He struggles… Continue reading Robin by Sarah Ann Juckes
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
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
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
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