Picture a storyteller who turned zoo adventures into thrilling tales for young readers—meet Roland Smith! Born in Portland, Oregon, this American author has captivated audiences with his young adult fiction and non-fiction, blending heart-pounding adventure with fascinating animal facts. From scaling Mount Everest in Peak to chasing cryptids in Cryptid Hunters, Smith’s stories are a wild ride that educate as much as they entertain.
With over fifty books to his name, Smith’s unique journey from zookeeper to New York Times bestselling author makes him a standout in children’s literature. His knack for weaving real-world experiences into gripping narratives has earned him awards and a loyal following. Ready to dive into his world? Let’s explore the life, works, and lasting impact of Roland Smith!
The Making of Roland Smith
Born on November 30, 1951, in Portland, Oregon, Roland Smith’s love for storytelling sparked early. At five, his parents gifted him a hefty manual typewriter, igniting a passion for writing that would shape his life. Growing up, he balanced his literary dreams with a fascination for animals, majoring in English at Portland State University before a job posting at the Oregon Zoo changed everything. What started as a part-time gig led to a 20-year career as a zookeeper, working at the Oregon Zoo and Point Defiance Zoo in Washington, and even aiding wildlife rescue after the Exxon Valdez oil spill.
Smith’s zoo experiences weren’t just a job—they were a goldmine for storytelling. Catching escaped agoutis and snagging a Myna bird mid-flight gave him firsthand insights into animal behavior, which he later channeled into his writing. While working, he honed his craft in the early mornings, reading voraciously and studying the publishing world, setting the stage for his leap into authorship.
Roland Smith’s Unforgettable Stories
Smith’s bibliography is a treasure trove of adventure, with a focus on young adult fiction and non-fiction that brings animals and nature to life. His debut, Sea Otter Rescue (1990), a non-fiction account of the Exxon Valdez cleanup, showcased his ability to make science accessible and engaging. This set the tone for later non-fiction works like Journey of the Red Wolf, which won an Oregon Book Award in 1996 for its vivid depiction of species conservation.
In fiction, Smith shines with series like Peak, where 14-year-old Peak Marcello tackles Mount Everest, blending high-stakes climbing with coming-of-age themes. The Cryptid Hunters series follows twins Marty and Grace as they hunt mythical creatures, merging cryptozoology with pulse-pounding action. I, Q, a six-book series, dives into espionage, while Elephant Run transports readers to World War II Burma, showcasing Smith’s knack for historical adventure. His style—marked by wry humor, scientific accuracy, and fast-paced plots—hooks readers, making complex topics relatable and fun.
Smith’s stories often feature young protagonists facing high-stakes challenges, reflecting his belief in the resilience of youth. Whether it’s surviving a hurricane in Storm Runners or navigating a dystopian world in The Switch, his books blend education with entertainment, encouraging readers to care about the natural world.
Why Roland Smith Matters
Roland Smith’s impact on young adult literature is undeniable. His ability to weave environmental and animal themes into thrilling narratives has inspired countless readers to explore science and conservation. Awards like the National Outdoor Book Award for Peak and multiple state Book of the Year honors underscore his critical acclaim. Beyond accolades, Smith’s school visits and engaging storytelling have fostered a love of reading in young audiences, making books feel like adventures rather than chores.
His legacy lies in showing that stories can educate without preaching. By drawing on his zookeeper roots, Smith has carved a niche that resonates with readers of all ages, proving that adventure and knowledge go hand in hand. Today, living with his wife, Marie, in Bentonville, Arkansas, he continues to inspire through his writing and advocacy for literacy.
- Born: November 30, 1951, Portland, Oregon
- Key Works: Peak, Cryptid Hunters, I, Q, Sea Otter Rescue
- Awards: Oregon Book Award (1996), National Outdoor Book Award (2007)
- Fun Fact: Smith once caught two escaped agoutis in a park, earning him a full-time zoo job!
Snag Peak or Cryptid Hunters and dive into Roland Smith’s thrilling world of adventure and animals!