Picture an American storyteller who conjured a fantastical realm called Foo, where dreams fuel adventure—meet Obert Skye! This bestselling children’s fantasy author has enchanted readers with his whimsical tales, blending humor, heart, and imagination. From the beloved Leven Thumps series to quirky adventures like The Creature from My Closet, Skye’s stories spark wonder in readers of all ages.
Born with a knack for storytelling, Skye claims he read his first book at age two and penned a short story by four. Whether dodging water buffalo at six or tasting candy on Scotland’s Isle of Skye, his colorful life shapes the playful, imaginative worlds he creates. Let’s dive into the magic of Obert Skye’s journey and legacy!
The Making of Obert Skye
Obert Skye, the pseudonym of Robert Farrell Smith, was born in 1970 and raised with a love for stories. Growing up, he was immersed in books, with influences like Roald Dahl’s Charlie and the Chocolate Factory turning him into a devoted reader despite early dyslexia. His brief stint as a candy-taster on the Isle of Skye inspired his pen name, a nod to his whimsical spirit. By his twenties, Skye was crafting tales, publishing his first book in 1996 before launching into children’s fantasy with Leven Thumps and the Gateway to Foo in 2005.
Obert Skye’s Unforgettable Stories
Skye’s flagship work, the Leven Thumps series, spans five novels and a prequel, following Oklahoma teen Leven as he discovers Foo—a hidden realm where human dreams and hopes thrive. With unforgettable characters like Clover, a fuzzy sidekick, and Winter, a girl with freezing powers, the series weaves unpredictable twists and profound themes about destiny and imagination. Critics praise its “splendidly unpredictable plot twists” and “lighthearted fantasy” style.
Beyond Foo, Skye’s Pillage trilogy explores a teen’s magical plant-growing heritage, blending adventure with Scottish folklore. The Creature from My Closet series, including titles like Wonkenstein and Potterwookiee, delights with humorous mash-ups of literary characters. His Wizard for Hire series adds a modern twist, featuring a boy seeking a wizard to solve life’s mysteries. Skye’s playful narratives, rich with humor and heart, make complex ideas accessible to young readers.
Why Obert Skye Matters
Obert Skye’s impact lies in his celebration of imagination. Through his 2010 Imagination Tour, visiting over 900 U.S. schools, he inspired kids to embrace creativity, emphasizing that “imagination makes life more textured.” His stories, rooted in the power of dreams, resonate with readers navigating their own journeys. Awards like the Benjamin Franklin Award for Leven Thumps underscore his influence in children’s fantasy literature.
Today, Skye continues to write from Idaho, captivating new generations with his blend of whimsy and wisdom. His work reminds us that even in a mundane world, a spark of imagination can open gateways to extraordinary adventures.
- Born: 1970, under the name Robert Farrell Smith
- Key Works: Leven Thumps series, Pillage trilogy, Creature from My Closet series, Wizard for Hire series
- Awards: Benjamin Franklin Award (2005) for Leven Thumps and the Gateway to Foo
- Fun Fact: Once nearly trampled by water buffalo at age six!
Snag Leven Thumps and the Gateway to Foo and dive into Obert Skye’s magical world of fantasy and fun!