Review: Second Star

Second Star

by Alyssa B. Scheinmel

Why did you choose this book? It is a Peter Pan retelling

When did you read this book? April 2014

Who should read this book? readers of fairy tale retellings

Source: NetGalley

Here is a synopsis of Second Star from Goodreads

A twisty story about love, loss, and lies, this contemporary oceanside adventure is tinged with a touch of dark magic as it follows seventeen-year-old Wendy Darling on a search for her missing surfer brothers. Wendy’s journey leads her to a mysterious hidden cove inhabited by a tribe of young renegade surfers, most of them runaways like her brothers. Wendy is instantly drawn to the cove’s charismatic leader, Pete, but her search also points her toward Pete's nemesis, the drug-dealing Jas. Enigmatic, dangerous, and handsome, Jas pulls Wendy in even as she's falling hard for Pete. A radical reinvention of a classic, Second Star is an irresistible summer romance about two young men who have yet to grow up--and the troubled beauty trapped between them

My Review

This is a retelling of the classic Peter Pan by J.M. Barre in a contemporary setting. If you loved the story as a kid, you will enjoy this retelling. It has all the elements you remember. Of course there is Wendy Darling, the big sister of Michael and John. Pete is a contemporary Peter Pan, full of energy and fun; a good guy at heart but not very mature. The lost boys are with him, as is Belle (Tinkerbell), a diminutive ball of energy. Captain Hook is there as Jas, the guy who has gone to that dark side but at heart wants to be rescued and hopes Wendy is the way back. There is a cameo by a pirate, and Nana, the big lovable dog appears in the book. There is even an ‘almost’ death scene with Belle (if you believe in fairies, clap your hands!)

It took me a chapter or two to get oriented in the story, but once I did, I couldn’t wait to read more. I can’t say I LOVED the ending, but it was very true to the ending of the original. After all, all children, except one, grow up! And that one is there, somewhere, if we can figure out how to get back, right? So even though I didn’t absolutely love the ending, I DID love the book! If you love fairy tales and fantasy, and especially if you love Peter Pan, check this one out!

If you have never read the original Peter Pan, it is available as a free ebook through Project Gutenberg. And if you have never seen the musical version of Peter Pan (NOT the Disney version!) you are missing a treat. Just google “Peter Pan Mary Martin Youtube” and you will find several clips as well as the full video!

I received and electronic ARC from the publisher through NetGalley. This did not affect my review.

My Rating:  ★★★★   4 Stars