My Mum Is A Spy; Andy McNab & Jess French, illustrated by Nathan Reed

Former British infantry soldier, Andy McNab, and vet, zoologist, TV presenter and children’s author, Jess French, join forces in the first in an exciting new wildlife-themed adventure-mystery series starring a fabulous James Bond-esque mum leading a secret life and a couple of smart and adventurous kids.

Idris’ mum is 100% definitely not a spy. She works fifty hours a week at the paperclip factory so there’s just no possible way that she has any spare time to do any spying. Idris’ step-sister Lucia is absolutely convinced that Sarah is a spy. And when some very strange things happen on a family outing to the zoo and Idris’ mum is kidnapped shortly after, it seems Lucia may be right. It’s time for the kids to do some spying of their own…

The pairing of ex-military man McNab and conservationist French may seem like an odd combination but it really does work. Espionage, action, adventure and intrigue drive the narrative alongside a healthy dose of animal welfare and conservationism - zoos, endangered animals and animal trafficking are all highlighted.

Fast-paced, exciting and thoroughly enjoyable, the crime-filled spy caper complete with family secrets, evil villains, plot twists, stolen animals, hidden rooms, a countess to rival Cruella de Vil, fast cars and underground tunnels is everything kids will love. I especially liked all of the espionage tricks and tactics, these are sure to have readers carrying out their own spying missions just to check that their family members are not leading secret double lives.

Idris and and Lucia are the perfectly imperfect combination. Forced together by their parents’ relationship, the somewhat mismatched step-siblings - he’d rather be watching his favourite animal shows while the all action, all do Lucia is keen to get spying and prove her theory correct - with their very different personalities both have key roles in the story and despite their differences a winning friendship emerges from all of the antics.

Over-sized font, short chapters and the fabulous illustrations of Nathan Reed will all help readers easily engage with the text. The brilliantly funny and wild ride will be a hit with wanna-be detectives, secret spies, animal-lovers, and mystery solvers.

With huge thanks to Allen & Unwin and Welbeck Flame for the copy I received in exchange for an honest review.

Recommended for 7+.