Doctor Who: Scratchman

+4
Balance
+4 -0
Score weighted by each hero's level: a recommendation from a level 3 hero counts for 3.
5.0/5
1
Reviews
Ranking among books: #22 Science Fiction
Tome
From the editors, by Tome Updated on 13/04/2026

A Haunting Whirlwind in "Doctor Who: Scratchman"

Imagine stepping into a swirling fog, the air thick with mystery and menace. That's where Tom Baker, our beloved Fourth Doctor, beckons us as he unfurls a story that teeters on the brink of madness. Originally intended as a film, this tale finally found its home on the page.

The Story

The iconic Doctor, accompanied by his ever-curious companions, Sarah Jane Smith and Harry Sullivan, finds himself in an uncanny battle against the sinister entity known as Scratchman. This adversary is set against a backdrop of terror-inducing scarecrows and alternate dimensions that seem to defy reality. The stakes are cosmic,an intricate dance between time and fear itself.

What Makes This Book Unique

Written by Tom Baker himself, with James Goss's assistance, the novel radiates with an authentic blend of whimsy and dread that mirrors the beloved TV series. Its playful dialogue juxtaposes stark horror elements, akin to Gaiman’s Coraline meeting Lovecraftian worlds. As much an homage to past adventures as it is a fresh exploration, it captures Baker's eccentric spirit effortlessly.

Who Should Read This

This book is a treasure for fans of classic sci-fi, lovers of eccentric narratives, and those who savor tales where humor dances with darkness. While prior knowledge of Doctor Who enhances the experience, Baker crafts an accessible portal for newcomers willing to embrace its quirks. Beware: it's not for those seeking traditional storytelling or faint-hearted readers.

+4
Balance
+4 -0
Score weighted by each hero's level: a recommendation from a level 3 hero counts for 3.
5.0/5
1
Reviews
Ranking among books: #22 Science Fiction
Tome
From the editors, by Tome Updated on 13/04/2026

A Haunting Whirlwind in "Doctor Who: Scratchman"

Imagine stepping into a swirling fog, the air thick with mystery and menace. That's where Tom Baker, our beloved Fourth Doctor, beckons us as he unfurls a story that teeters on the brink of madness. Originally intended as a film, this tale finally found its home on the page.

The Story

The iconic Doctor, accompanied by his ever-curious companions, Sarah Jane Smith and Harry Sullivan, finds himself in an uncanny battle against the sinister entity known as Scratchman. This adversary is set against a backdrop of terror-inducing scarecrows and alternate dimensions that seem to defy reality. The stakes are cosmic,an intricate dance between time and fear itself.

What Makes This Book Unique

Written by Tom Baker himself, with James Goss's assistance, the novel radiates with an authentic blend of whimsy and dread that mirrors the beloved TV series. Its playful dialogue juxtaposes stark horror elements, akin to Gaiman’s Coraline meeting Lovecraftian worlds. As much an homage to past adventures as it is a fresh exploration, it captures Baker's eccentric spirit effortlessly.

Who Should Read This

This book is a treasure for fans of classic sci-fi, lovers of eccentric narratives, and those who savor tales where humor dances with darkness. While prior knowledge of Doctor Who enhances the experience, Baker crafts an accessible portal for newcomers willing to embrace its quirks. Beware: it's not for those seeking traditional storytelling or faint-hearted readers.

Where to buy

Buy on Amazon
Status: Completed
Publication: 2019
Country of origin: United Kingdom
Original language: English
Age rating: Teen (13+)
Pages: 336
ISBN: 9781785943768
Genres: Science Fiction Time Travel

Also in the Doctor Who universe

See all 3 works

Reviews

Coolartist1110

A Great 4th Doctor Story

My recommendation does come with a bit of a caveat. If you’re looking for somewhere to start with Doctor Who, do NOT start here. This is not an entry-level story. This is a story written for fans of the 4th Doctor’s run by the 4th Doctor himself; you’ll probably get lost.

With that said, if you have any sort of fondness for the TARDIS Team of 4, Sarah Jane Smith, and Harry Sullivan, read this as soon as you can! It ventures into darker territory than their usual outings, but it’s honestly fun to see how they handle themselves in a setting more akin to those gothic stories 4 had with Leela.

Baker understands the character he plays, as well as the dynamics between himself and his fellow actors. No interaction seems out of character or out of place. The entire novel is filled with love for the show it comes from and the characters within it.

Also, as a huge Harry Sullivan fan, it lets Harry be useful and shows off that he’s not as much of an imbecile as some might claim. Love my boy!
Recommends:
+4 The value of a recommendation depends on its author's level.
Overall
31
Compete in the Heroes' Tournament and win Amazon gift cards! Discover