Let's Hear It for the Boys

Published: April 2005

Publisher: Miramax

Graphic novel publisher: Puffin - 2008

Summary: Goodreads

What does it take to become the greatest secret agent the world has ever known? In this thrilling prequel to the adventure of James Bond, 007, readers meet a young boy whose inquisitive mind and determination set him on a path that will someday take him across the globe, in pursuit of the most dangerous criminals of all time.

Thirteen year-old James Bond cannot wait to get away from Eton, his stuffy boarding school, and visit his aunt and uncle in the Highlands of Scotland. Upon arriving, he learns that a local boy, Alfie Kelly, has gone missing. James teams up with the boy's cousin, Red, to investigate the disappearance. The clues lead them to the castle of Lord Hellebore, a madman with a thirst for power. Despite unknown dangers, James is determined to find the lost boy. But what he discovers in the dark basement of Hellebore's estate will forever change his life.

Ever wondered what it would be like to be James Bond? Well here is the answer to that question. Full of exciting, improbable situations, this book is jam-packed with the fun that we have come to expect from James Bond movies, but scaled down to a teen level. If you prefer graphic novels, there is even a graphic version for you. Mr Higson has expanded the series to five books starting with Silverfin; Bloodfever; Double or Die; Hurricane Gold and By Royal Command. The series seems to have stopped at 5, but there is a companion book called Danger Society: The Young Bond Dossier, which looks to be full of background information about the characters, cars and weapons, and much more. Try it and see if you could hack it as a secret agent.