Eight-year-old Agnes Gamble lives with her Uncle Douglas in his flat on the twenty-sixth floor. Her parents, who were botanists, died a few years ago whilst on a rare-flower collecting trip in Australia.

Agnes has acquired their love for plants and animals but her uncle won’t allow her to have a pet so she has to make do with the wildlife outside. One afternoon she finds a talking Elephant Shrew sitting on her bed called Attie. He tells her he is a field agent from a group called SPEARS (Society for the Protection of Endangered and Awesomely Rare Species) and that he is there to recruit her for the agency.

Her parents used to be members of SPEARS and so Agnes jumps at the chance to walk in their shoes and help the animals, starting with Operation Honeyhunt.

Agents of the Wild is a fun, adventure-filled book following a young environmentalist who wants to protect the animals and the world. She just adores wildlife so she is keen to make a good impression and help out on the missions.

The book has some amazing artwork that really brings the story to life. With conservation and endangered animals as well as trying to save the planet at the forefront in society, especially with children (not including the recent virus), this book has come at a good time.

Overall, it is a wonderful read for any middle-grade child, especially those who are interested in conservation. The story has you turning the pages quickly wanting to keep up with the action and will give children something fun to read at a time when we could all do with a bit of relief.

Londoner Jennifer Bell began working in children’s books as a specialist bookseller at Foyles, Charing Cross Road, one of the worlds most famous bookstores. After having the privilege of listening to children talk about their favourite books for many years, she started writing a book of her own on her lunch breaks.