May 1, 2023
Gr 3-5-Dimaline (The Marrow Thieves) provides vibrancy and substance to a chronically badly represented character in children's literature-Tiger Lily. Her latest novel spotlights the titular tween as she utilizes her sharp wit and acuity to outsmart the devilish pirates who have captured her best friend, Sashi, in their hunt for everlasting youth. While Tiger Lily rushes to save her fairy friend, she grapples with her own fears around growing up, which is something that only members of her community can choose to do in Neverland. Dimaline successfully gives Tiger Lily, her Indigenous community, and the Lost Boys robust identities outside of the perennially famous Peter Pan. The book, slated for release one month prior to the live-action Peter Pan & Wendy on Disney+, offers readers more time with the crossover characters. In a short introduction, Dimaline specifically states that Tiger Lily is native to Neverland and is not based on any one Indigenous community. Some facets of Tiger Lily's culture, including housing (e.g., teepees) and customs (e.g., collecting sweetgrass), are recognizable nods to myriad North American Indigenous peoples. Ultimately, this is an enjoyable adventure that should appeal to Disney fans and could be a good choice for a family read-aloud. VERDICT Recommended for larger collections and where longer Disney books fly off the shelves.-Taylor Worley
Copyright 2023 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.
May 15, 2023
Told from the perspective of Tiger Lily, this story reframes Disney's retelling of J.M. Barrie's classic. A foreword by Dimaline (M�tis) sets the stage: At the book's heart lies 13-year-old Tiger Lily, whose tribe are the original people of Neverland; their fictional culture reflects "pieces of collective Indigenous philosophy and worldview"--without conflating those diverse cultures. Tiger Lily has a brave and adventurous spirit that has led her to develop true, loyal friendships with Peter Pan and the Lost Boys, who are English in origin, as well as with the fairy Sashi. But when a monstrous bear attacks, Tiger Lily realizes that she is not as brave as she thought. Ashamed that Peter took the lead in saving the day, she begins to contemplate growing up in order to better protect her people. Tiger Lily has conflicted feelings about growing up, however: Peter makes it sound terrible, but her grandma offers a more positive vision. An opportunity for bravery presents itself when she discovers two White men she realizes are pirates, a shock after years of peace on Neverland. These thick-skulled pirates seem to be searching for a treasure of unmeasurable value. Can Tiger Lily find it first, save her community, and keep her friends out of trouble? Respect for animals, plants, land, and family are all central themes of Tiger Lily's heritage. Her conflicted feelings about leaving childhood behind will resonate. A lighthearted tale with substance beautifully extending the world of Neverland. (Adventure. 8-11)
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