League of Llamas – The Golden Llama and Llama Impossible

League of Llamas – The Golden Llama and Llama Impossible by Aleesah Darlison (Penguin Random House) 

RRP $6.99 ISBN: 9781760894160 and 9781760894184

Reviewed by Jeffery E Doherty

The Golden Llama and Llama Impossible are the first two books in Aleesah Darlison’s League of Llamas books for children. They are a fun, and very pun-filled mix of James Bond, Mission Impossible and Get Smart spy dramas with wonderfully flawed, hero llamas and dastardly, evil flatulent badgers. What more could a child ask for?

Phillipe Llama has a magnificent fringe, which often distracts him from his duties as an agent of LOL, the League of Llamas. His partner Lloyd has an unfortunate eating disorder. He is unable to resist the temptation to eat everything in his path.

In the Golden Llama, these bumbling agents must find a way to stop the evil badger General Bottomburp, and find the Llama Republic’s most prized relic, the Golden Llama. To complicate matters they must solve the mystery of the alluring lady Llama in red.

In Llama Impossible, we see a runaway train, a muscle-bound, eyeball-licking gecko, a bank robbery, and dazzling diamond heist. But don’t worry, our intrepid (or ineptid) LOL agents are on the case. Is General Bottomburp up to his tricks again, or is there a new kingpin in town?

The League of Llamas books are packed full of interesting and wonderfully flawed characters. There are amusing spy references throughout the books that are sure to keep parents engaged, and so many llama and other animal puns, that kids will be howling with laughter as they follow the antics of Phillipe and Lloyd. The fun black and white illustrations by Simon Greiner add to the reading experience.

The League of Llamas books are short, fun, and easy to read adventures that play brilliantly to the funny bones of young readers. With a villain called General Bottomburp, these books are sure to be a hit, particularly with boys. Working in a primary school, I know, fart jokes still rule. Highly recommended.