Sisters of the Neversea

While Smith wields Barrie's storyteller voice, writing from a head-hopping omniscient voice that addresses readers directly, this is less a retelling and more a rebuttal, critiquing the problematic aspects of the classic--often quite overtly--and the consequences of such harmful influences are explored over the course of much action, adventure, and magical island exploration. An exciting journey in its own right and a necessary "recommend-along" for patrons seeking Barrie's original.

Centering a mixed Creek and British family in this Peter Pan reboot, Muscogee (Creek) author Smith's (Hearts Unbroken) smart novel follows two stepsisters on an adventure to Neverland. Twelve-year-old stepsisters Lily and Wendy have lived in Oklahoma since Lily's mother, a Creek citizen, married Wendy's British widower father. But Wendy's father has taken a job in New York, the girls' friendship is in disrepair over Lily's unwillingness to tackle her fear of flying and make the trip, and it seems that the family will break apart. Enter Peter Pan, looking for his shadow and enticing Wendy and her four-year-old brother Michael to fly to Neverland. Lily follows shortly after, soon learning that Peter has changed from a boy who didn't want to grow up into a brutal monster--one who kidnaps children, slays animals and humans alike, and mistreats his fairy companion, Belle. Lily and Wendy plan their escape, try to reconcile, and wonder if Peter might be redeemable after all. A sharp, contemporary retelling of a classic that puts the focus on the Indigenous kids this round. Ages 8-12. Agent: Ginger Knowlton, Curtis Brown. (June)

Copyright 2021 Publishers Weekly, LLC Used with permission.