As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
On The Table Read Magazine, “the best entertainment eBook magazine UK“, Daniel’s Uncle by Martin Smith is a thrilling Middle Grade adventure where a grieving boy’s summer in Scotland unveils lost cities, alien secrets, and astonishing brain powers, blending wild imagination with real-world science and heartfelt emotion for readers aged eight to adult.

Daniel’s Uncle

In the enchanting world of Daniel’s Uncle, debut author Martin Smith delivers a captivating children’s novel that seamlessly weaves wild imagination with real-world science and heartfelt emotion. Aimed at readers aged eight to 16, this Middle Grade adventure follows thirteen-year-old Daniel, whose life is upended after the tragic loss of his parents in a skiing accident. What begins as a summer of healing with his eccentric uncle on the banks of Loch Ness in Scotland spirals into a thrilling journey filled with lost cities, alien secrets, and astonishing brain powers. With its universal appeal, Daniel’s Uncle is a bold addition to children’s literature that enchants young readers and keeps adults turning pages.

Smith’s narrative strikes a rare balance, blending the timeless allure of classic adventure with modern themes of grief, healing, and personal growth. Young readers are drawn into a whirlwind of thrilling discoveries, alien technologies, and offbeat humor, while adults appreciate the story’s emotional depth and clever nods to real-world science. The result is a book that feels both fantastical and grounded, offering something for everyone. As Daniel uncovers his uncle’s quirky brilliance and embarks on a madcap adventure involving a nineteenth-century explorer and an alien race, readers are transported into a world where imagination knows no bounds.
What sets Daniel’s Uncle apart is Smith’s ability to infuse technical flair into the storytelling, a skill honed through his career as a field service engineer for laser cutting equipment. This expertise shines through in the novel’s tech-savvy twist on the traditional hero’s journey, elevating it from an escapist caper to an intelligent and page-turning literary debut. The writing is clear, engaging, and accessible, making it ideal for both reluctant and avid readers. Whether it’s the discovery of a lost city or the unlocking of Daniel’s newfound brain powers, each plot twist is crafted with precision and wonder.
At its core, Daniel’s Uncle is a story about transformation. Daniel’s summer in Scotland becomes a catalyst for emotional growth, as he navigates grief and finds joy in unexpected places. The whimsical adventures are underpinned by themes of resilience and healing, making the novel as emotionally resonant as it is entertaining. Readers of all ages will find themselves rooting for Daniel as his world expands beyond anything he ever dreamed possible.
With its irresistible mix of mystery, humor, and heart, Daniel’s Uncle is a must-read for anyone who loves a good story. Martin Smith has crafted a magical debut that invites readers to explore the wonders of imagination while staying grounded in the realities of the human experience. Whether you’re eight or 80, this is one adventure you won’t want to put down.

Martin Smith
I initially had the beginning of the story in my head during the covid lockdown but actually started writing it in March 2024. I wanted to try and create a modern day ‘Harry Potter’ who would be relatable to modern life and the young people of today.
–Martin Smith
Daniel’s Uncle is the first book to be published by the author, Martin Smith. Martin lives close to the beautiful Peak District and has worked in engineering in various forms since leaving school. He enjoys a quiet life with his dog in a quaint stone cottage. Martin also enjoys riding his motorbikes and strongly believes life is for living.
Find more from Martin Smith now:
Apple Books: https://apple.co/4d0lYNk
Kindle: https://amzn.to/4jEijaz
Paperback: https://amzn.to/4j7ZLi9
We strive to keep The Table Read free for both our readers and our contributors. If you have enjoyed our work, please consider donating to help keep The Table Read going!
Amazon and the Amazon logo are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc, or its affiliates.