- Publication 5th March 2026
- Age 7 to 11
- Price £8.99
- Format PB, b/w ills
- Size 198 x 129mm
- Extent 216pp
- ISBN 978-1-83630-034-2
I am Ray's Imaginary Friend
Brian MosesClick here for biography
Bethan WelbyClick here for biography
A moving and humorous verse chapter book written by an imaginary friend
Did you know there was a School For Imaginary Friends? Well, there is - and one of its star pupils is the narrator of Ray's story.
Ray loves life in his village until one day he hears his parents talking about moving away. Traumatised by the idea, Ray invents an imaginary friend to talk to and even runs away. Eventually Ray is able to accept the move, and also the refugee mother and child who come to live with his family in the new house.
Read the Books for Keeps Authorgraph: 
Love Reading Q&A with Brian Moses: 
Praise from the Press:
'Honest, perceptive and sympathetic, sad and funny at turns, and, above all, reassuring. A fine production from Scallywag Press, with warm, well observed illustrations from Bethan Welby.' Books for Keeps
'Poignant and profound and with stunning illustrations throughout this is storytelling at its very best- an absolute gem of a story' Kevin Cobane
'Delightful illustrations are interspersed throughout that show considerable detail, especially in facial expressions.' Children's Books Ireland
'A spell-binding illustrated verse story for 7+ year olds… Thought-provoking, heart-warming and beautifully written, an outstanding book to share with KS2 children.' School Reading List, picks of the best children's books coming out for spring 2026
'This heartwarming story is a real masterclass in the power of empathy. The verse structure makes this a very accessible read and the delicate and beautiful line drawings throughout, add to the appeal.' LoveReading4Kids
Praise from authors:
'Very good indeed. A verse novel, with the perfect balance of emotion and humour, and will lead to some wonderfully challenging conversations in the classroom.' Jon Biddle
'A terrific book - poetry novel - that takes us deep into coping with change and growing stronger. A wonderful story - and a must have for years 4-6. Lots to think about.' Pie Corbett
'Absolutely brilliant. This deceptively simple tale packs a real emotional punch. There have been some excellent verse novels published in the last few years and this is right up there with the best.' Roger Stevens
Other books by Brian Moses
Other books illustrated by Bethan Welby







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