SHORTLISTED!

For Holyer-an-gof-publishers-awards! 2022/23

The adventures of Denzil and Jago continue, with even more surprises. They go on a camping holiday to the Isles of Scilly, with their girlfriends Tamsyn and Nessa. As they sail across to the islands aboard their boat the Acorn, they are accompanied by their very special friend Smiley the dolphin. Their trip is full of surprises for them all except Smiley. He leads them to make a very special discovery on the seabed off Bryer Island. Their discovery answers questions about the historical mysteries of West Cornwall. It brings joy and pride to everyone when the treasure is returned to it’s home. Once again Smiley plays a very special part in their destiny.

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Meet the Author 

• Amazon Ranking: 1,924,488 in Books, 
• 3,567 in Historical Fiction for Young Adults
• 7,938 in Historical Fiction for Children (Books)
• 20,529 in Fairy Tales, Folk Tales & Myths for Children (Books) [27.1.2023]

Children's Books

Review of Smiley and the Acorn: Treasure on the Isles of Scilly

A lively, sea‑soaked adventure where friendship, family, and Cornish heritage meet mystery, discovery, and the magic of a very special dolphin.

Overview

In this sequel to Smiley and the Acorn, Roger Underwood continues the adventures of Denzil and Jago — now joined by their girlfriends, Tamsyn and Nessa — as they set off on a camping holiday to the Isles of Scilly aboard their beloved boat, the ACORN. Their loyal and extraordinary companion, Smiley the dolphin, returns as both guide and guardian, leading the group into an adventure that blends maritime mystery with local history.

Themes and Emotional Depth

1. Friendship and Companionship

The bond between the young adventurers and Smiley the dolphin is central to the story. Smiley is more than a mascot — he is a wise, intuitive presence whose guidance shapes the journey.

2. Adventure Rooted in Place

The Isles of Scilly provide a vivid backdrop: wild, beautiful, and steeped in folklore. The setting enriches the narrative with a sense of wonder and authenticity.

3. Discovery and Local History

The heart of the plot lies in a fantastic discovery on the seabed off Bryher Island, one that connects directly to historical mysteries of West Cornwall. The return of this treasure brings pride and joy to the community, grounding the adventure in cultural heritage.

4. Destiny and Legacy

Once again, Smiley plays a pivotal role in shaping the destiny of the characters, reinforcing the idea that some journeys are guided by forces beyond simple chance.

Literary and Cultural Value

The book stands out for:

• its strong sense of Cornish and Scillonian identity
• its blend of realism, folklore, and gentle magic
• its family‑friendly adventure narrative
• its celebration of the sea, nature, and maritime tradition
• its accessible storytelling for young readers

It reads like a modern Cornish adventure tale — wholesome, imaginative, and rooted in place.

Strengths

• Engaging, easy‑to‑follow storytelling
• A warm cast of characters with believable relationships
• A magical yet grounded atmosphere
• A vivid sense of coastal adventure
• A satisfying blend of mystery and discovery

Conclusion

Smiley and the Acorn: Treasure on the Isles of Scilly is a delightful continuation of Roger Underwood’s coastal adventure series. With its mix of friendship, maritime mystery, and the gentle magic of Smiley the dolphin, it offers young readers a story full of heart and wonder. The book celebrates Cornish heritage, the beauty of the sea, and the thrill of uncovering long‑buried secrets — making it a charming addition to children’s adventure literature.