Copyright: Disney
A new month means a new book to read, and April has us looking at yet another wonderful classic, Peter Pan and Wendy by J. M. Barrie. Walt Disney loved the story and tried to buy the rights to the adaptation in 1935. He was able to purchase them four years later from the Great Ormond Street Hospital in London. The animation studio began work on the film for intended release after Bambi, but World War II delayed production. The film was finally released in February 1953. Its wonderful portrait of childhood imagination caused it to become an instant favorite.
This book has a (for lack of a better term) prequel called Peter Pan in Kensington Gardens which tells the stories of Peter Pan as a baby living his life hidden in the center of London among fairies and birds. Several editions of Peter Pan and Wendy include this original story of the boy who refuses to grow up and if yours includes it, you’ll enjoy it but we’ll be looking at the familiar tale of Wendy, John, and Michael Darling; Peter Pan and the Lost Boys; Captain Hook and the pirates; and of course the incorrigible fairy, Tinker Bell.
I’m looking forward to reading about the fantasy island of Neverland along with Peter and the Darling children’s escapades there. And trust me, even though it’s classified as children’s literature, this book isn’t just for kids. You’ll love it. So just think of a wonderful thought, any happy little thought and off to Neverland we go!
Reading for week one: Peter Pan and Wendy Chapters 1-5
Where to find it:
- Don’t forget about your local library! You can request books and have them sent from other libraries in your area. Your librarians would love to help you find this classic.
- Several editions are available through Amazon or Barnes and Noble
- Several free editions available through Google Books
- Is available for download to Kindle, Sony Reader, and Nook
Contributed by: Lynnette Johnson (NDM#271) Lynnette is the DDL Book of the Month Blogger.
Lynnette’s love of all things Disney grew out of the close connection it had to good times spent with her family. Whether that was loading up the car to go see the latest Disney film at the drive-in, watching World of Disney every Sunday night together, or pouring over the newest Grolier Disney book to show up in the mail, it always included time spent together. As a native Southern California girl, her family took yearly trips to Disneyland. Those memories gave her a greater love for the Magic that continues today. Lynnette is a mom of two, an elementary school teacher, and avid reader.
Excellent selection! I must confess that I fell behind on Alice (I’ll still finish it, but that pesky “life thing” got in the way). I’ll be starting on this one, too — I’ve always wanted to read the original.
I look forward to discussing it!
– John
I’m hoping our library has this one so I can join in!!
I sure hope so! If you can’t find it, let me know. We’ll find a way to get one into your hands. This is a good one!
Yay, this is one of those books that I’ve always wanted to read but never got around to! I’m on chapter 5 or 6 and really liking it so far!
Yay, this is one of those books that I’ve always wanted to read but never got around to! I’m on chapter 5 or 6 and really liking it so far!
Yay, this is one of those books that I’ve always wanted to read but never got around to! I’m on chapter 5 or 6 and really liking it so far!
Life does get in the way doesn’t it? Alice seemed to be a little more mind-bending of a read than this is turning out to be. You should definitely be able to keep up with Pan! And please do finish reading Alice. She does need to get out of that crazy Wonderland!
It really is a fun read. So glad you have time to read this month!
I just bought this book for my Kindle. I cant wait to read it!!
Wonderful! Love how many options there are for reading these days. Glad to have you along!