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
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
February 2026 A Girl's Guide to Spying is a completing captivating First World War mystery for readers age 9+ that shares and celebrates the history of Girlguiding. The resilience, strength, courage and intelligence of young girls takes centre stage in a time of uncertainty and fear. I see the legacy of these types of girls… Continue reading A Girl’s Guide to Spying by Holly Webb
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
The Fear is an absolutely brilliant book for helping young people recognise and cope with anxiety. Kian used to love playing football but an experience with a tough coach who delighted in making his players feel small created "the fear" inside him. When this anxiety takes over, Kian is terrified of doing something wrong and… Continue reading The Fear by Tom Palmer & illustrated by Robin Boyden
Game Over! is a fantastic story for children making the move to secondary school and trying to find themselves in the crowd. Jay has just started Year 7 and thinks he goes to the worst school in the world. He doesn't enjoy PE or team games of any kind, which is tricky when all his… Continue reading Game Over by Serena Patel & illustrated by Louise Forshaw
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
25th September 2025 Ian Hunter has gone from sci-fi to spooky in his third book! Full of autumn vibes and seriously scary moments, The Shoe Creeper is a fantastic story about cross-generational relationships, dealing with change and making sense of traditional tales. This is a book that will have readers on edge, checking over their… Continue reading The Shoe Creeper by Ian Hunter ~ Blog Tour
Swanfall is a gorgeous combination of folklore and friendship. I adored Sophie Kirtley's other books but this is her best yet! Alternating between a modern story of bird conservation, wetland management and the enchanting beauty of nature and strange writing found in a mysterious old book telling the story of three children who went missing… Continue reading Swanfall by Sophie Kirtley
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