The story follows the adventures of Joe and Sylvia, a young boy and girl who stumble into the enchanting and whimsical land of the Snergs, a race of small, jolly, and industrious creatures. Together with their Snerg friend Gorbo, Joe and Sylvia embark on an adventure that involves castles, knights, witches, and giant ogres. J. R. R. Tolkien recorded his love for the novel which has led to speculation that the book was a major inspiration for the hobbits.