Hook

Novelizations of films are notoriously tricky in that they often aren't able to capture the cinematic magic of the film's visual interpretation, much in the same way that films adapated from books miss the cadence of written language and the character depth, but when I spotted this book at a charity sale I couldn't resist picking it up for a mere $2. Terry Brooks was, after all, responsible for a pretty paletteable version of Star Wars, Episode I: The Phantom Menace that I still own a copy of, so surely it would at least be readable. Obviously, I've seen Hook so many times that I have each scene practically memorized, so some of the instances where Brooks took some artistic license were a bit jarring, but overall he kept the magical and show more whimsical feel of the film intact throughout. Where he was able to get further into the character's minds was a definite boon to the story, as we are able to see the real sadness that hides behind Peter Banning's/Pan's successful facade and we are able to glimpse a much more adult sene of lost romance in the failed relationship between Peter and Wendy Darling. The one area where Brooks struggles a bit comes with the moments of comedy that are so crucial to the film and rely heavily on visual language that can't quite be translated to the page. Thankfully, those of us who are likely to pick up this book in the first place are unlikely to pass the film by, so if we just use our imaginations we can picture Jack's wry grin, Hook's melancholy melo-dramatic intonation, and hear Rufio's triumphant crow as we read along. This may not be a book I would recommend on its own, but it was still a bangerang jaunt back through a slightly more grown up Neverland! show less

Like any novelization, this is a book to read After you've seen and enjoyed the movie--and as such, I could easily hear the voices of the characters, and see the scenes in my head. I look forward to future returns to Neverland, with a well worn copy in my hands.

I try not to do spoilers, but this book takes place roughly 80 years after J.M. Barry's iconic story, Peter Pan. Peter is grown up--a lawyer--with children of his own, when he is suddenly forced by Captain Hook into one last adventure, to save his kids. In the process, the adult Peter has to learn again how to have fun.

While it is a children's story and plot, there is an important message or two for adults as well.
A good, touching story, well suited for bedtime readings to the kids.

I love all things Peter Pan, and I love this movie, but I would do yourself a favor and just watch the movie. Its not horrible, but the writing is a little corny, and doesn't pull you in very well. I skipped around a bit. But since the movie is amazing and its the same story, I gave it an extra star.

I didn't care much for the idea of this movie - a sequel to Peter Pan? The book doesn't add or detract anything at all. If you liked the movie, then this book might be of interest to you.

PETER PAN!!!