Peter Pan

by Wendi Lowery (Adapter), Greg Becker (Illustrator), J.M. Barrie

With fairy dust and a rascal named Peter Pan, the three Darling children fly off through their open window to Neverland. What could be more grand than an adventure with pirates, Indians, mermaids, and no grown-ups?

Yet dangers await them - Tinker Bell's jealousy, foul play, the revenge of cruel Captain Hook... and the awful fear that Mother has not left the window open...

Genres: Fiction, Childrens

176 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2012

Reviews

[寿理 宮本 · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is "adapted," so I'm not sure how accurate it is to the original. I'd assume pretty close, but without seeing the original, I couldn't say for certain. (I picked up this version because I hadn't read the original, and this was available.) It's still quite British, at least, so no "making it American for American kids" shenanigans!

It also keeps the calling the natives "Injuns," which is... not the WORST thing to call people, but definitely bad. You know, besides the whole "taking Wendy specifically to be their maid/mother" thing, and Wendy going along with it because she doesn't know any better than to not be their mum.

It's a "classic" story, though, so I can't really say much that will affect whether anyone else will read it. The art in this edition is fine, but I'm not a fan. Like, it's competent, but I'm just not as charmed by the style as with illustrations in other books. This edition is fine for getting the gist of the story, anyway.

[Daniel · Rating 3 out of 5]

Abridged and adapted for kids.

[Danielle Katz · Rating 2 out of 5]

I read this adaptation to my kids. I hope the original is better.

[Aly Cigelnik]

I wish I owned the original version, and I wish I read this as a child, but I’m glad I finally read a version

[CrystalS · Rating 3 out of 5]

I didn’t realize I was reading an adaption when I first picked it up. It’s a much shorter version, good for younger kids. But honestly just read the original.

[Becky · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was gifted to us and we read it aloud on a road trip. It's an easy read, with several humorous one-liners. Despite it being a classic and adapted for Disney (which of course I've seen), I hadn't ever read the original. This version is fully illustrated, which was fun, and there are a few details that didn't make it into the Disney version that were interesting to discover.

I'd totally recommend this as a fun, quick read to anyone who enjoys a bit of silly kids' classics.

[Sarah · Rating 3 out of 5]

Ok, so I only read an adaptation because I was reading it to a 4 year old - and it served its purpose. She enjoyed it, and it was lighter on the racist Indian scenes (though those totally still existed). Besides the fact that it's got the racism and sexism of a story of its time, it's one I have a soft spot for. The tender magic of it appeals to me, and always has.

[Jason · Rating 4 out of 5]

I never had read the actual story of Peter Pan, just all the versions given to the world by Hollywood and Disney. The edition I read was adjusted for a younger reader, simplifying language, removal of a bit of of the darker language and actions. But even with the younger focus it was a fun read. Good to see where Peter's origins come from. And next time around, different edition.

[Katy Kellett · Rating 4 out of 5]

I read this to my oldest sons, ages 4 and 6, and they hung onto every word. The pictures helped them to interpret the story. They loved the pirates and the crocodile. My middle son was all smiles after Pan defeated Hook. I read three chapters at a time over several nights. I enjoyed reading this to them!

[Michael · Rating 3 out of 5]

An adaptation of the original novel for younger children. This does a good job of covering the main plot points, while still being accessible. My daughter has enjoyed hearing the story in a non-Disney fashion.

[Kara · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a good book and my son really enjoyed it. As an adult, though, I think I would have enjoyed the full unadapted version more. That will be on my to-read someday list. :) I'm definitely glad to finally know the real story and see how it compared to the Disney movie.

[Tracy Furr · Rating 3 out of 5]

A rather weak adaptation. Read it to my kids and I felt the language was stilted.

[bex o.donoghue · Rating 5 out of 5]

Official Rating:
5/5 stars 🌟

[bex o.donoghue · Rating 5 out of 5]

Official Rating:
5/5 stars 🌟

[Electroclan17 · Rating 3 out of 5]

I like it.

[Karen · Rating 5 out of 5]

I can certainly see this as a children's story. Can't believe I've never read it until now.

[Heather · Rating 3 out of 5]

For a child this is much easier to read than the original version.

[Shannon · Rating 3 out of 5]

Pleasant enough for a children's adaptation. Worth the $1 spent at the front of Target.