We chat to author and illustrator, Millie Marotta, whose passion for endangered animals shines through in her latest book

Today we are losing species more quickly than we are discovering new ones. And while we may be familiar with the plight of the mighty elephant or charismatic chimpanzee, there are other vanishing species whose stories are not told so often. Millie Marotta has taken on this duty – her book, A Wild Child’s Guide to Endangered Animals includes beautiful illustrations of each animal, alongside their unique story. We caught up with her to find out more about her love of wildlife, and she shares an extract about the pangolin.

I made A Wild Child’s Guide to Endangered Animals to tell the stories of some of the incredible creatures that we don’t often hear about, who are in danger of becoming extinct. It’s a full colour, illustrated book, which has plenty of information and facts on some amazing species from around the globe who are all at risk of disappearing. Many of these are animals that could become extinct before most of us have ever even heard of them, and then there are creatures we know well – such as the giraffe – but didn’t realise that they too are in danger. I wanted to shine a spotlight on those that don’t usually grab the headlines. This is an issue very close to my heart and it means the world to me to create a book which celebrates these wonderful animals and offers a glimpse into the outstanding diversity of the animal kingdom. I hope the book will inspire nature loving kids and grown-ups alike to fall even more in love with the natural world and encourage everyone to try and help save it.