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Six Points of Light #1
Hook's Origin
St. Catherine's is a place for misfits, for the forgotten, and it is also the only home James Cook has ever known. Abandoned on the front steps as an infant, James is raised by Sister Maddie who loves him like the mother he never knew. Growing up at St. Catherine's, James battles one illness after another, and spends most of his time in the infirmary.
One night, a young boy is delivered to St. Catherine's in the arms of his distraught mother. The boy, Peter, is mischievous and James tries his hardest to stay as far away from him, and his band of merry followers, as possible. The younger boys at St. Catherine's are drawn to the charismatic Peter, but James, being older and in his humble opinion, wiser, is not recruited so easily.
As the two become more closely acquainted, Peter reveals to James that he has a secret. This secret will turn James' life upside down and set he and Peter on a collision course with destiny in that far of place known to children and dreamers...Neverland.
Before he was Captain Hook, he was simply James Cook, and as it turns out, he was not such a dastardly villain after all.
Join some of the most beloved characters in literature as their roots are laid bare and the truth of their humble beginnings is revealed.
One night, a young boy is delivered to St. Catherine's in the arms of his distraught mother. The boy, Peter, is mischievous and James tries his hardest to stay as far away from him, and his band of merry followers, as possible. The younger boys at St. Catherine's are drawn to the charismatic Peter, but James, being older and in his humble opinion, wiser, is not recruited so easily.
As the two become more closely acquainted, Peter reveals to James that he has a secret. This secret will turn James' life upside down and set he and Peter on a collision course with destiny in that far of place known to children and dreamers...Neverland.
Before he was Captain Hook, he was simply James Cook, and as it turns out, he was not such a dastardly villain after all.
Join some of the most beloved characters in literature as their roots are laid bare and the truth of their humble beginnings is revealed.
206 pages, Paperback
First published April 16, 2015
2 people are currently reading
1696 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews
January 12, 2016
James Cook was abandoned on the steps of St. Catherine's orphanage as an infant and has been raised by the only mother he knows, Sister Maddie. A new boy, Peter, is brought in by his mother who then takes her own life but not before telling Sister Maddie to tell Peter to never grow up. Peter and James grow close at the urging of Sister Maddie with Peter beginning to tell James of a place called Neverland....
A wonderful retelling of the classic Peter Pan. Six Points of Light brings in all of the elements of the story that we all know and love but with a completely new twist on the events. Much like the television show Once Upon a Time, this version has Peter a not so nice character and Hook being more of the hero of the story.
The story contained amazing world building giving us details into how Peter knew of Neverland, how one would get there and all of the wonderful characters were involved with this version, Peter, Hook, Wendy, Michael, John, Tigerlily, Smee. So much detail worked in this version I definitely loved the new twist.
Overall, a new take on Peter Pan that any fan of retellings should enjoy, would definitely recommend.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.wordpress....
A wonderful retelling of the classic Peter Pan. Six Points of Light brings in all of the elements of the story that we all know and love but with a completely new twist on the events. Much like the television show Once Upon a Time, this version has Peter a not so nice character and Hook being more of the hero of the story.
The story contained amazing world building giving us details into how Peter knew of Neverland, how one would get there and all of the wonderful characters were involved with this version, Peter, Hook, Wendy, Michael, John, Tigerlily, Smee. So much detail worked in this version I definitely loved the new twist.
Overall, a new take on Peter Pan that any fan of retellings should enjoy, would definitely recommend.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.wordpress....
March 18, 2016
Been a long time since I've read a Peter Pan retelling, but it's hard to come upon something that will not piss me off when it comes to fairytale retellings anyway. Still, looking for them and trying them out, getting my last bit of patience tested, I'd say it's worth it.
Because there are times like this, when I find a rare treasure among useless stories, and suddenly, all the books I had to go through to get to read this one seem like a trial I had to pass in order to earn this wonderful reward.
That's how I felt when I was reading this amazing book. Rewarded! I have no idea for what, but good Lord, you can keep 'em coming if they're anything like this!
Kalynn Bayron tells a story we're all familiar with, but from a completely different angle, one I seriously agree with.
I never considered myself a Pan fangirl. I mean, I liked the tale alright, but I had to grow up to realize I only liked certain aspects and characters, not the main lead himself.
Why?
Oh, come now, you can't possibly tell me you never thought that maybe the boy was a little too much! I mean, I was a kid myself and I still found him annoying, pompus, and way too bossy. He reminded me of a school bully! And that opinion stayed with me even with the Disney movies and that old anime that was shown on TV when I was still in elementary.
Yeah, I'm talking about this one.
So imagine my happiness when I found this little gem during my weekly NetGalley search, and discovered while reading that it was even better than I had hoped! Not only because I, too, believe Hook was always a misunderstood character, but because it took on a rather fresh point of view to tell the story and changed some facts of the original tale - for the better! Not to mention that FINALLY someone wrote down what kind of a twisted, sick brat Peter Pan truly was - I mean, not finding someone who agreed on that matter for years was sort of depressing for me.
By the way, I said it when I first heard the original story, I'll say it again: everything was his mother's fault! Honestly, I was a kid back then and I still found it stupid that a mother would tell her child not to grow up. I remember telling my own mother (this is roughly translated from Greek):
"Mom, why would she say that? Isn't it bad to wish for your kid to stay like this forever? Aren't we supposed to grow up and live our lives normally?"
My cousins had looked at me funny, while she said "Honey, not all people think as reasonably as you. Peter's mommy was certainly not."
"Yeah, but why? She's the MOM, she's supposed to."
See? Even my younger self thought so!
I can only say I sincerely hope I get to see more of James and Wendy and all the other interesting characters. And, call me a sadistic bitch, but boy, if they manage to kill that flying maniac, I'll be terribly happy to see him go!!!
***I was given an ARC from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. The opinion stated in this review is solely mine, and no compensation was given or taken to alter it.***
Read this and other reviews at: http://cupcakesandpopcorn.wordpress.com/
Because there are times like this, when I find a rare treasure among useless stories, and suddenly, all the books I had to go through to get to read this one seem like a trial I had to pass in order to earn this wonderful reward.
That's how I felt when I was reading this amazing book. Rewarded! I have no idea for what, but good Lord, you can keep 'em coming if they're anything like this!
Kalynn Bayron tells a story we're all familiar with, but from a completely different angle, one I seriously agree with.
I never considered myself a Pan fangirl. I mean, I liked the tale alright, but I had to grow up to realize I only liked certain aspects and characters, not the main lead himself.
Why?
Oh, come now, you can't possibly tell me you never thought that maybe the boy was a little too much! I mean, I was a kid myself and I still found him annoying, pompus, and way too bossy. He reminded me of a school bully! And that opinion stayed with me even with the Disney movies and that old anime that was shown on TV when I was still in elementary.
Yeah, I'm talking about this one.
So imagine my happiness when I found this little gem during my weekly NetGalley search, and discovered while reading that it was even better than I had hoped! Not only because I, too, believe Hook was always a misunderstood character, but because it took on a rather fresh point of view to tell the story and changed some facts of the original tale - for the better! Not to mention that FINALLY someone wrote down what kind of a twisted, sick brat Peter Pan truly was - I mean, not finding someone who agreed on that matter for years was sort of depressing for me.
By the way, I said it when I first heard the original story, I'll say it again: everything was his mother's fault! Honestly, I was a kid back then and I still found it stupid that a mother would tell her child not to grow up. I remember telling my own mother (this is roughly translated from Greek):
"Mom, why would she say that? Isn't it bad to wish for your kid to stay like this forever? Aren't we supposed to grow up and live our lives normally?"
My cousins had looked at me funny, while she said "Honey, not all people think as reasonably as you. Peter's mommy was certainly not."
"Yeah, but why? She's the MOM, she's supposed to."
See? Even my younger self thought so!
I can only say I sincerely hope I get to see more of James and Wendy and all the other interesting characters. And, call me a sadistic bitch, but boy, if they manage to kill that flying maniac, I'll be terribly happy to see him go!!!
***I was given an ARC from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. The opinion stated in this review is solely mine, and no compensation was given or taken to alter it.***
Read this and other reviews at: http://cupcakesandpopcorn.wordpress.com/
July 15, 2016
This is quite a different retelling. This isn't some happy new imagination of a fun adventure. No, this is darker, twisted and will make you rethink the story of Peter Pan. All our favorite characters are here. James Cook (Hook), Peter, Wendy, John, Micheal, Smee, Tigerlily, Tinkerbell and even Hook's least favorite crocodile! They all play a part. And for many of them, the roles are not quite what you'd expect from the original tales.
James grew up in an orphanage, with one of the Sisters raising him practically as her own. a quite, studious, well behaved child that I instantly felt drawn to. Then Peter shows up with a final message from his mother to never grow up. Where's James' character is kind, sweet and morally upstanding, James is obsessed and bratty. And that is putting it kindly.
I was expecting more fantasy in this book but much of it takes place in the real world. While a bit disappointing on one side, the story was quite enthralling on it's own. What Peter does....there are no words I can share without spoiling. Let us simply say I would never want to come across him! Another reason the lack of Fantasy was okay was that this was just book one! I am most eager to learn more of these adventures.
In some ways, the setting and characters seem perfect. It actually goes quite well. The changes made make sense. Kalynn Bayron does a good job filling the holes. I really enjoyed is. Highly recommended for fans of Once Upon a Time tv series!
*I was given a copy of this book in exchange for a fair, honest review. All opinions expressed are strictly my own.
James grew up in an orphanage, with one of the Sisters raising him practically as her own. a quite, studious, well behaved child that I instantly felt drawn to. Then Peter shows up with a final message from his mother to never grow up. Where's James' character is kind, sweet and morally upstanding, James is obsessed and bratty. And that is putting it kindly.
I was expecting more fantasy in this book but much of it takes place in the real world. While a bit disappointing on one side, the story was quite enthralling on it's own. What Peter does....there are no words I can share without spoiling. Let us simply say I would never want to come across him! Another reason the lack of Fantasy was okay was that this was just book one! I am most eager to learn more of these adventures.
In some ways, the setting and characters seem perfect. It actually goes quite well. The changes made make sense. Kalynn Bayron does a good job filling the holes. I really enjoyed is. Highly recommended for fans of Once Upon a Time tv series!
*I was given a copy of this book in exchange for a fair, honest review. All opinions expressed are strictly my own.
April 13, 2016
I received this book from a #goodreadsgivaway. I was so excited when it arrived in the mail. Now to say that I thoroughly enjoyed this book is really a big deal since I am not a huge fan of Peter Pan. I love this take on the timeless tale. It was a great read and I am looking forward to "The Lost Son". I loved reading James's story. I have a long list of people who want to borrow my copy. (Only if they read it with gloves, lol) I must say a huge Thank You to #KalynnBayron for this honour. Most of what I have seen and read of Peter Pan has been Peter's story. To me, the story always felt like a story more for boys then girls. More of a guy thing. This version however, explained the beginnings of Hook and Peter and made me want MORE. The writing was fresh, and deep. Full of colour and layers. Anyone would enjoy this read, young and old, and in-between. Keep up the amazing work Kalynn, you have a gift.
April 28, 2016
A fun twist to an old classic. I really enjoyed meeting all the characters from the Peter Pan story in this altered tale. Well written and paced. You will learn to love James Hook and despise Peter. Can't wait for the sequel.
March 3, 2016
This is not your typical retelling of a well-known story’s origin. Instead, it turns everything you thought you knew on its head, and I’m not sure I like it. This retelling is dark, and Peter Pan especially suffers for it. James Cook (eventually Hook) is a little too good to be true, as is his instant love for Wendy (a pet peeve I’ve documented in other reviews). It takes liberties with some basics of the story, as well.
The storytelling is…fine. There’s some good description. There are also some rather preachy bits, such as when James is being told he needs to forgive both Peter and himself. It seems as if James is going to take that advice to heart but then…maybe not. In the end though, Hook is no villain, and this narrative does nothing to explain why he would be thought of as one.
Probably the most interesting part is the little plot bomb dropped at the very end, and it’s why I will probably read the sequel when it’s available.
Overall though, to be honest, this read like fanfiction. Some fanfiction out there is actually pretty wonderful. This is not that kind. A few editing errors, hopefully, are cleared up in the final publication copy.
Possible Objectionable Material:
Magic, fairies, suicide, fighting, murder, dishonesty.
Who Might Like This Book:
Those who like familiar stories retold. As I said, it’s dark, and although it’s probably accessible to late elementary on up, I wouldn’t necessarily recommend it to them. Approximate Lexile: 810
Thank you, NetGalley, for the ARC.
The storytelling is…fine. There’s some good description. There are also some rather preachy bits, such as when James is being told he needs to forgive both Peter and himself. It seems as if James is going to take that advice to heart but then…maybe not. In the end though, Hook is no villain, and this narrative does nothing to explain why he would be thought of as one.
Probably the most interesting part is the little plot bomb dropped at the very end, and it’s why I will probably read the sequel when it’s available.
Overall though, to be honest, this read like fanfiction. Some fanfiction out there is actually pretty wonderful. This is not that kind. A few editing errors, hopefully, are cleared up in the final publication copy.
Possible Objectionable Material:
Magic, fairies, suicide, fighting, murder, dishonesty.
Who Might Like This Book:
Those who like familiar stories retold. As I said, it’s dark, and although it’s probably accessible to late elementary on up, I wouldn’t necessarily recommend it to them. Approximate Lexile: 810
Thank you, NetGalley, for the ARC.
June 30, 2015
I have always loved fairy tales; and Peter Pan is no different. But in Six Points of Light by Kalynn Bayron, you hear the story from a different view – that of James Cook.
Long before he was Captain Hook, James Cook was a quiet and sickly boy who lived with other misfits in St. Catherine’s. Though he has the love of Sister Maddie, he never knew the love of his mother as he was abandoned on the steps of St. Catherine’s as a child. When Peter shows up as a mischievous boy, James decides to stay away from the wild child and his little gang. That is until one night when Peter reveals a secret land to Peter and his life is never the same again.
This book tells you of a different side of James Cook that you never knew of.
The story is refreshing, a new concept and quite entertaining. A must read for all whether you love fairy tales or not.
Long before he was Captain Hook, James Cook was a quiet and sickly boy who lived with other misfits in St. Catherine’s. Though he has the love of Sister Maddie, he never knew the love of his mother as he was abandoned on the steps of St. Catherine’s as a child. When Peter shows up as a mischievous boy, James decides to stay away from the wild child and his little gang. That is until one night when Peter reveals a secret land to Peter and his life is never the same again.
This book tells you of a different side of James Cook that you never knew of.
The story is refreshing, a new concept and quite entertaining. A must read for all whether you love fairy tales or not.
July 31, 2015
This is a really cool take on the Captain Hook/Peter Pan origin story. It took me a few chapters to get fully invested, but once I started recognizing all the familiar characters and little tidbits from all the versions we all know so well, I couldn't wait to find out more.
It really reminded me of the tv show Once Upon a Time, and I love the way that show takes the characters you know, but isn't afraid to take dark twists and turns with their stories or surprise you by playing around with who are the good guys and who are the bad guys.
If you like that show, I would definitely recommend this book.
It really reminded me of the tv show Once Upon a Time, and I love the way that show takes the characters you know, but isn't afraid to take dark twists and turns with their stories or surprise you by playing around with who are the good guys and who are the bad guys.
If you like that show, I would definitely recommend this book.
July 2, 2015
I found myself completely lost in this book, and the story that, it turns out, was a new take on a story I've known since childhood: Peter Pan! This is the story of James, who later turns out to be Captain Hook, and his friendship with a boy named Peter! Can you believe it?! I loved that the relationship between Captain Hook and Peter isn't just one of an annoying kid bugging an adult. They really knew each other, and weren't just neighbors who fought. It gave me a new way to look at it all, and I love when a book changes my perspective! What a great story!
March 7, 2016
This book was an intriguing concept to me - to go back in time and revisit one of the biggest villians in children's literature, Captain Hook and find out what made him who he was. It's a clever concept and I got literally hooked on the story from the start, really enjoying the fluidity of Kalynn's writing. She's incredibly descriptive and I had a lot of empathy with the character's childhood. You learn what really formed him, the struggles he had and that appearances can be deceptive. I was given this book in exchange for an honest review and I'm very glad to have come across it.
March 26, 2016
I want to point out the good things about this book, which are the action sequences. They were exciting and full of tension and excellent pacing. It was the hope of more action sequences that kept me reading.
As for the rest, I will say it needs more editing. There is a lot of repetition in the narrative. The relationships need to be built upon more with interaction between characters rather than being told that relationships exist.
As for the rest, I will say it needs more editing. There is a lot of repetition in the narrative. The relationships need to be built upon more with interaction between characters rather than being told that relationships exist.
March 4, 2016
I really enjoyed this book! It was a refreshing take on the story of Peter Pan, centered around Captain Hook instead, and I found it very captivating. The author writes eloquently and I really found myself pulled into the story, which doesn't happen often lately since I have so much on my plate! But it was certainly a welcome escape from every day life. Well done, Miss Bayron! I'm looking forward to the next installment!
Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews