Agent Asha: Mission Shark Bytes

Agent Asha is a clever and engaging story that weaves computing knowledge – such as how the internet works and if/then logic – into the story.

Asha is from an Indian family in Brent and her family are delighted when she visits the library – supposedly to study. Little do they know that she is getting involved in a secret spy mission! She triumphs in this secret mission with wit, intelligence and a little dash of disobedience. Asha is a great role model; it is especially welcome to see female representation in computing and STEM-based roles. The point is not laboured, but nor does it need to be, sometimes for children, it is enough just to see themselves reflected in stories. The family tree of Asha’s family at the back covering India, Africa and the UK is useful background as well and adding an extra dimension of interest to readers appreciating Asha’s cultural identity.

I really enjoyed this story and would have no hesitation recommending it to my Year Four class (both boys and girls). It would work best as an independent read rather than a class read-aloud, simply because several features such as diagrams and computer code details are best appreciated close up. I think it would be most suitable for Year Threes to Year Fives. The story is exciting and well set up for sequels – one to watch in the future!