Review

Tiger Lily

Common Sense Media says

Dark retelling of Peter Pan tale focuses on Indian girl.
Age
14
Quality
 
  • Educational value1
    This newly imagined telling of the Peter Pan story may lead readers back to the original source: the J.M. Barrie novel. 
  • Positive messages3
    The value of independence, standing up for yourself and others, being one with nature, and respecting others' religious beliefs, are themes and issues discussed throughout the novel. Tiger Lily, Peter Pan, and the Lost Boys want to be independent, to think for themselves, and not have adults tell them what to do, which stays true to the original Peter Pan story, but doesn't always work out for the best.   
  • Positive role models3
    Tiger Lily stands up for her friend Pine Sap when he is belittled and beaten by his mother. She is a fierce yet guarded heroine who wants to be brave and respectful, but is affected by feelings of love, fear, loneliness, and desperation. Tinkerbell, the narrator, always tries to warn people of danger and helps those in need. Pine Sap wants what's best for Tiger Lily, even if it means compromising his own life. Tiger Lily and many of the characters don't always do the right thing when it comes to the heart and mind. Tik Tok, who is Tiger Lily's surrogate father, doles out solid advice to her about life, her behavior and trusting others.  
  • Violence4
    There is death and violence in Tiger Lily's village and outside in the forest of Neverland. Captain Hook and Smee are cold-blooded murderers. Smee often says he would like to strangle Tiger Lily. Captain Hook wants to get rid of Peter Pan for good. Kidnapping is mentioned, attempted murder and murder is committed by two of the main characters. One villager is burned to death and another commits suicide. It's indicated that one of the young female villagers was raped. One of the characters discusses poisoning another character. Animals are killed for food, clothing, tools, and the home.
  • Sex1
    Peter Pan and Tiger Lily kiss, but that's as far as it goes. Tiger Lily and Pine Sap skinny dip. Adultery is mentioned.
  • Language1
    Pine Sap is called an idiot and a mistake by his mother.
  • Consumerism0
    Not applicable.
  • Drinking, drugs, & smoking2
    Captain Hook and the pirates, who are adults, drink alcohol. Peter Pan and the Lost Boys drink some sort of alcohol. It's offered to Tiger Lily, but she refuses. Tik Tok smokes a pipe, so does Tiger Lily.
CloseExpand to see more details

What parents need to know

Parents need to know that Tiger Lily is a dark and mature retelling of the Peter Pan fairy tale kids may know from the Disney animated movie version or the classic children's play and novel by J.M. Barrie. The major players -- Peter Pan, Tiger Lily, Tinkerbell, the Lost Boys, Captain Hook, Smee, and Wendy are all here, but so are adult themes, violence, murder, and romance with kissing. At the beginning, narrator Tinkerbell explains the novel best: "This is a love story, but not like any you've heard. The boy and girl are far from innocent. Dear lives are lost. And good doesn't always win."

This review of Tiger Lily was written by

Most useful reviews by all members

Kid, 12 years old
December 21, 2012
13
OK for kids & up
 
Oh my gosh, only THREE STARS!!?
This book is totally incredible. I LOVE it. Its my all-time favorite. Its dark, romantic, deep. Its full of happiness and grief. Its such a beautiful story.
Flag as inappropriate 
was this review useful?
Helped me decide (3) | Had useful details (7) | Read my mind (2)
See all user reviews

Hook

(PG, 1991)
A clumsy mishmash of a comedy.
AGE
8
 

Ever After

(PG-13, 1999)

Charming take on Cinderella tale has strong heroine.
AGE
8
 

The Hero's Guide to Saving Your Kingdom

(by Christopher Healy)

Engaging fairy tale spoof is clever and funny.
AGE
8