Review Detail

Fans of Once Upon a Time will rejoice with the retelling of Peter Pan in Lisa Jensen’s Alias Hook.

Lisa Jensen creates a very unique take on the story of Peter Pan and Neverland. In this book, Hook is the hero while Pan is an evil young boy who loves power over everything else. The story is told from Hook’s point of view and provides insight into how he came to be known as the infamous “Captain Hook.”

What I liked best: With Alias Hook, as a reader I got a firsthand look at the very heart of Neverland from an adult’s perspective. Peter Pan’s desire to fight and the violence he brings is unexpected and a delightful twist. Pan is ruthless and Hook is hesitant to fight. I love how my perceptions of the fairies, Indians, and other Neverland creatures are put the test and changed. The writing is brilliant and provides beautiful and vivid descriptions. At times the descriptions are almost poetic.

This is not just a retelling of a famous tale. It is filled with themes of despair and hope, wonder and magic, forgiveness and love. It is a great book to curl up with and just dig in. This is a story to be relished and savored. It cannot be read quickly. Although it was difficult to get used to the language at first, I quickly fell in love with the writing and all the lush details make Alias Hook a worthy read.

Overall the fantasy elements left me breathless and I didn’t want to leave this wonderful world Jensen created. Alias Hook is definitely intended for an older audience. Overall recommend for readers in high school and older. This isn't your Disney style Neverland. However, readers will not be disappointed and Jensen's Neverland will definitely leave you hooked!