I DNF right before the halfway mark which is a whole 220 pages in. This isn’t usual for me since it’s often by 50 pages that leads me to my decision.
The prologue of “Straight On Till Morning” paints a vivid picture, which I love.
Chapter called “London” – so has Wendy already been to Neverland 4 years ago? How old is she? The writing is definitely unique but this author really has a way with words that I’m jealous of.
In chapter “In Bocca Al Lupo” it’s obvious that the same traditional female stereotype is being used as the original Peter Pan … with some extension on the scenes. (I’m glad we know she’s 16 now.)
So page 82 goes back to Tink’s point of view
“Meanwhile on the High Seas” goes back to Captain Hook’s point of view, where he’s whimsically torturing the shadow to learn Pan’s whereabouts. If he doesn’t get revenge, he can’t move on.
The setting/vibe seems to be its own character which is nice. Also I’m glad that it’s Wendy’s story and she even proposed they they don’t mention Peter for a while or make their choices based around what he might do or want.
Once I hit page 200 I realized I’m skimming from boredom. I like that I get to see all the parts of Neverland but it doesn’t feel like anything is happening.
I love that Mrs. Smee may be an invisible friend. I’m curious if they’ll ever find Peter or return his shadow. Otherwise, the stakes feel so low that I don’t have investment in whether they succeed in their goals.
Halfway through I felt like there was a lot of lost potential. I seemed disappointed by the paths taken when more could be done and overall lacked interest.
I took a break and started reading something else at the midway mark. I’m unsure if I’ll come back to it, especially since I have 6 other Peter Pan retellings to get through. The possible reason why I didn’t connect to it is that it’s written in third person narrative.
I want to say more good things but it felt like it dragged for too long