Last summer I wrote a long, rambling review of Howl’s Moving Castle, which may be my all time favorite book. It inspired me to start a little series – reviews of some of lifelong favorite books. Here is part two!
Don’teven think of starting this bookunless you’re sitting in a comfortable chair and have lots of time. Afast-paced, impossible-to-put-down adventure awaits as the young orphan Peterand his mates are dispatched to an island ruled by the evil King Zarboff. Theyset sail aboard the NeverLand, a ship carrying a precious and mysterious trunk inits cargo hold, and the journey quickly becomes fraught with excitement anddanger.
Discover richly developed characters in the sweet but sophisticated Molly, the scary butfamiliar Black Stache, and the fearless Peter. Treacherous battles withpirates, foreboding thunderstorms at sea, and evocative writing immerses thereader in a story that slowly and finally reveals the secrets and mysteries ofthe beloved Peter Pan.
As you long time readers will remember – I LOVE Peter Pan. The idea of never growing old, and having constant adventures; mermaids, fairies, everything I love tied onto one little island. It makes me ridiculously happy. And, that love for Peter Pan all came from Peter and the Starcatchers (or, I should say, it amplified it).
Although I had already adored J.M.Barrie’s original, and the Disney film, my full on obsession with Pan started the day I first read this series. I think it may have been the way it tied the classic story into real life – particularly in Bride to Neverland (which, to many, is the least popular of the series, but is actually my favorite).
This series, though aimed at middle schoolers, is filled with witty, fast paced story telling and dialogue. It allows the reader to feel a part of the story, right along with Peter, as he discovers his past. Peter is a lonely, scared boy, through most of his story. We are given a new, more relatable, side to the spunky kid we always hear about in Peter Pan adaptions. We get to know, and love, the boy behind the story.
I would highly recommend Peter and the Starcatchers to anyone who loves adventures, or just a dang good story. This is one of the few series that I can read, and then immediately reread, without getting tired of it. It truly appeals to all ages, and I hope you guys check it out!
Peace out,
Mads