By Paul Lang

Penguin, out now

The yearly treat for younger fans has wider appeal.

Long, long gone are the days (so wonderfully brought back to memory by Paul Magrs’ book on the topic) where Doctor Who annuals had a passing interest in the adventures of the Time Lord. Recent editions have been strong, but this is one of the best yet with one of its best touches saved for last – the inside back cover spread summarises Capaldi’s Doctor, quoting one of the speeches that I suspect we’ll remember for many years to come, and notes that the future beckons…

Every episode of Series 10 is covered, with interactive notes between the Doctor and Bill, as well as contributions from Nardole and Missy, and these do actually feel like dialogue that the various characters might have said. The stories aren’t presented chronologically across the season, so you’re never quite sure which one will be tackled next, and there are some nice conglomerations of aspects (Rooms to Rent being one of my favourites).

The annual doesn’t just look at the most recent episodes; bearing in mind that for some young fans, Capaldi’s regeneration may be the first time they see the Doctor changing, there are constant reminders that this is a core part of the franchise, with pictures of the old Doctors and Masters throughout. There’s also a recap of The Tenth Planet, ready for Christmas Day’s adventure, with pictures of the “new” Mondasians beside their 50 year old counterparts, and some new fiction adventures, one of which sees The Ghost return.

The designers aren’t credited, but they deserve an equal round of applause to Paul Lang for a great job. If you think the annual’s just for kids on Christmas Day, maybe think again…

Verdict: An excellent souvenir of Series 10. 9/10

Paul Simpson