A climate fiction series that places animals at the forefront of a battle against climate change has been aiming to inspire young readers.

The book, titled 'The Last Year of the Wild', is set in 2060, and depicts a Britain ravaged by wildfires, storms, and a struggling wildlife population.

Author Lizzie Pepper, who lives in the Cotswolds, focuses the narrative on animals, who are depicted as the saviours of a planet on the brink of destruction.

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The third instalment of the series, 'Summer Solstice', continues this theme, following a cast of courageous creatures determined to save the Earth.

Pepper said: "This will be my third novel to be published in just 20 months in what has become 'the most important decade for nature conservation; if we don't save the natural world now it will be too late', so I was keen to launch my series as soon as possible."

The series does not shy away from the harsh realities of climate change, but instead strives to give young readers a sense of agency and purpose through the viewpoint of nature itself.

Ms Pepper said: "When I first started writing 'The Last Year of the Wild,' I wanted to create more than just a story—I wanted it to be a conversation with the next generation."

She added: "As someone who has spent years in conservation, I’ve seen firsthand the delicate relationship between humans and nature, and it was important for me to convey that through my characters."

The second instalment of the series won the 'Book of the Year' award from The Golden Wizard Book Prize.

The prize's CEO, Louise Jane, said: "An absolutely sensational debut novel from an extremely talented author.

"I've never read anything like it, the concept is so unique and fresh.

"They are a creative genius, and their words will draw you into the story until the very last page.

"The prose is revolutionary and thought-provoking, this book is so much more than just a fun adventure story - it's an opportunity for us to truly see the world in a new way."