Books to spark imagination

Books are a fantastic way to engage your child’s imagination and help with their development. This list contains loads of gems for stimulating young imaginations.

  • If All the World Were

    by Joseph Coelho, illustrated by Allison Colpoys 

    2018 0 to 7 years 

    This beautiful story tells the love that one little girl has for her ageing grandad. One day he isn’t there anymore, but the little girl finds evidence of their happy times together. A touching, sensitive text that doesn’t dwell on the sadness and could bring real comfort.

  • Time to Go with Ted

    by Sophy Henn 

    2017 0 to 4 years 

    • Board books
    • Interactive

    Teeny hands will love turning the flaps of this adorable board book about the very keen and creative Ted on his daily outings. A sweetly interactive read-along that really celebrates the fun of imagination.

  • Oh No, George!

    by Chris Haughton 

    2012 2 to 7 years 

    • Funny
    • Picture books

    George is a dog with a big personality and he LOVES cake, rubbish bins and chasing Cat.

  • Box of Tricks

    by Katie Cleminson 

    2009 4 to 9 years 

    • Picture books

    Every child loves an empty box and here, with the help of some magic, it contains a fantasy birthday party.

  • My Best Friend Tilly

    Author-illustrator Iris Samartzi 

    2025 4 to 7 years 

    • Picture books

    A little girl is excited to spend the day with her best friend Tilly, and she wants to build a dreamworld for them to play in. But her imagination soon gets the best of her. 

  • Drew, Moo and Bunny, Too

    by Owen Sheers, illustrated by Helen Stephens 

    2023 5 to 9 years 

    • Adventure
    • Poetry and rhyme

    With soft yet dramatic illustrations, and a rollicking rhythm and rhyme to the words, this is a delight to read aloud. It would be suitable for pre-schoolers, but also even up to 8 year olds, with lots to discuss and the sound of the words to enjoy.