Review: Peter Pan by J. M. Barrie (Classic Literature, Children's, 9 years +, 6/10E)

 June 2018, Penguin, 160 pages, Paperback, Personal copy

Summary from Penguin

'All children, except one, grow up.'

It was Friday night. Mr and Mrs Darling were dining out. Nana had been tied up in the backyard. The poor dog was barking, for she could smell danger. And she was right - this was the night that Peter Pan would take the Darling children on the most breath-taking adventure of their lives, to a place called Neverland, a strange country where the lost boys live and never grow up, a land with mermaids, fairies and pirates - and of course the terrible, evil, Captain Hook. Peter Pan is undoubtedly one of the most famous and best-loved stories for children, an unforgettable, magical fantasy which has been enjoyed by generations.

Nayu's thoughts

I've grown up with the tale of Peter Pan, saw and disliked the Disney version. It is very firmly in my mind as I attended Great Ormand Street Children's Hospital, who has the rights to anything to do with Peter Pan. I adore the Disney Tinkerbell movies, but never read the actual original book published in the early 1900s, so when the friend I read classics with suggested it I hopped on board and spent July reading about Peter's tale chapter by chapter. 

I can tell you a summary: Peter is in fact a villain not a hero, I felt sorry for Hook and the pirates, Wendy had a lot on her hands but for the most part enjoyed playing mother and taking care of everyone. Sure it's not the most politically correct tale, but written over a century ago what do you expect? I didn't realise that Peter actually kills pirates. Like hunts them down and murders them. Admittedly they want to murder him, but he is so nonchalent about it, and feels it is normal! It is very not normal to kidnap children to have playmates and be taken care of. He doesn't even look after them that well on the journey to Neverland! 

I have a very low view of him, and while I'm thankful I have read the original novel, I don't expect I will read it again. The dog Nana is adorable, the children's parents are a bit eccentric but they stood by their beliefs. And Peter...lives on, forever kidnapping girls to take care of him, although after Wendy at least some had time limits on how long they could be away from home. Tinkerbell is a little madam, and not very likeable so for that I do thank Disney for creating a cuter, kinder version. 

Suggested read

My favourite classic read is A Little Princess by Frances Hodgson Burnett (Children’s, Audio book, 9 years +, 10E/10E) 

 

Review: Anna Karenina by Leo Tolstoy, Translated by Louse and Aylmer Maude (Classical Literature, 8/10E)

 

Originally published 1878, this edition March 2012, Dover Publications, 978 pages, Ebook, Personal copy

Book summary

A beautiful society wife from St. Petersburg, determined to live life on her own terms, sacrifices everything to follow her conviction that love is stronger than duty. A socially inept but warmhearted landowner pursues his own visions instead of conforming to conventional views. The adulteress and the philosopher head the vibrant cast of characters in Anna Karenina, Tolstoy's tumultuous tale of passion and self-discovery. 

This novel marks a turning point in the author's career, the juncture at which he turned from fiction toward faith. Set against a backdrop of the historic social changes that swept Russia during the late nineteenth century, it reflects Tolstoy's own personal and psychological transformation. Two worlds collide in the course of this epochal story: that of the old-time aristocrats, who struggle to uphold their traditions of serfdom and authoritarian government, and that of the Westernizing liberals, who promote technology, rationalism, and democracy. This cultural clash unfolds in a compelling, emotional drama of seduction, betrayal, and redemption.

 

Nayu's thoughts
I never read Tolstoy at school, but a dear Norwegian friend wanted to read it so I joined her. It was an epic read for sure but, imagine my surprise when the first chapter revealed Tolstoy to be much more readable than Jane Austen! I was delighted as I struggled with some Austen books. Tolstoy, at least in this translation, I could happily read more than once.
 

An edition I wish I could own, but it's leather so I can't. So gorgeous!!

Anna Karenina is reknown for being extremely long. However, read over a period of two months with about one part a week it felt a lot shorter. It really helped that I enjoyed a lot of the main characters (not Anna). There is no excuse on earth for adultery. Levin and Kitty's growing friendship after Kitty initially rejected him was a joy to read. Sometimes I read ahead of my allocated reading simply because I needed to know what happens next, which is totally the sign of a good book. Because I talked about it so much another friend is considering trying it. There are some chapers that are dull, and I felt the final part of the book was a bit odd in terms of Levin's bizarre attitude, considering all he had overcome mentally his sudden spiritual crisis and being less attentive to Kitty felt against is nature. 

I don't have much care for Anna. What she did was wrong. She was frequently selfish regarding her only child, her original husband was willing to forgive her transgressions but she was determined to throw away her old life and have her new one. It is not a surprise that she met a sorry end. The lead up to that end was brilliantly written. Russia at that time felt so alive in the novel, I loved learning about the farming culture, which felt initially quite free-ing from the city's elite circles but Levin discovered trying to get labourers to try anything new was a monumental feat. 

I'm actually looking forward to when we tackle War and Peace because I've made sure to get the same translation as Anna, but not looking to the vast quantity of characters. I do highly recommend Anna Karenina as a read, and this is from someone who does not necessarily love classics!  

Suggested read

Not really reviewed classics but for a historical read check out The Seamstress by Maria Duenas, translated by Daniel Hahn (Historical, Fiction, 9/10E)

 

Anne of Green Gables by Lucy Maud Montgomery, narrated by Rachel McAdams (Audiobook, Classical Literature, 10/10E)

November 2016, Audible Studios, 9 hours 22 minutes, Audiobook, Review copy from Audible 

Summary from Audible

When aging brother and sister Marilla and Matthew Cuthbert decide to adopt an orphan boy to help with chores around their farm, Green Gables on Prince Edward Island, neither is prepared for the feisty and imaginative redheaded girl who is mistakenly brought to them instead. Nor are they prepared for the way in which she will change their lives. Through a series of hilarious misadventures, Anne's uncompromising spirit makes her a striking presence in the close-knit village, bringing new friendships, first crushes, and, for her foster parents, a love and openness unimaginable before her arrival. 

Nayu's thoughts

I finally read this hilarious and heartwarming classic tale! It's incredible to think this was written in 1908, over 100 years ago, and yet it totally touched my heart. I'm generally not into classical literature. I've tried to like the books I had to read at school, but mostly I didn't. I love the Little Women series, the Laura Ingalls series (Little House on the Prairie), A Little Princess, Heidi, and The Railway Children, but that's it. I can firmly add Anne of Green Gables to that list! 

I couldn't believe how hilarious Anne was. The narrator's voice reminded me of Anna in Frozen, as did how much Anne could talk and her fanciful thinking. Her melodrama did remind me of Amy in Little Women, but overall Anne is a unique character who I gave up anime time just to listen to her exploits. I liked her that much. She is constantly talking, adding drama to non-dramatic events which does drive her adopted parents a little mad, but while her adopted mother slash Aunt rarely shows her amusement, Anne's mannerisms bring lots of love and light to her new home. 

I knew that Anne was firm friends with Diana before I read the book, which made me curious as to how the two became best friends when an incident split the two up and I couldn't see how they would get back together. You know the times in life where accidents happen which aren't the person involved's fault, yet they get the blame? Those happen to Anne a lot, and were highly amusing to hear about. Anne's love of melodrama does mean her sincerity is sometimes not seen by those she is apologising to, at least not the first time round. Life is never dull with Anne. 

I have to say I preferred the earlier parts of the book when Anne was still a child and getting into an insane amount of scrapes: the later part of the book got a bit more serious, and there was less mischief which I heartily missed. You'll need tissues, that's all I'll say about it, and Anne has to grow up fast. She was 16 or so by the end, so in our day still a teen but back then 16 was classed as an adult which is why Anne has to make a few personal sacrifices when life circumstances change. 

I don't yet know if the sequel is in audiobook form (I haven't looked), and because of how I viewed the end of the book it wouldn't get to the top of my wishlist anytime soon, but I do hope to find out what happens next to Anne. I have a suspicion over who she may marry (if she marries), and would like to see if I'm right. I fully recommend giving Anne's tale a go – I promise you won't regret it if you like humour and adventure!

Suggested read

I've reviewed one of the other classic children's reads I mentioned in this review so check out Alma Children's Classics: The Railway Children by E. Nesbit and Peter Bailey (Children's, 9 years +, 10E/10E, short 'n' sweet review)

Northanger Abbey by Jane Austen

Published by Bantam Dell Classics
211 pages

Classic Literature

Cushions: 3/5
Paperclips: 0/5
Smiles: 4/5 (very witty!)
Tissues: 1/5

Emina’s recommendation rating: ♥♥♥♥♥

Meet Catherine Morland, an ordinary young woman from an ordinary English family. Upon her arrival to Bath, an intriguing society where fashion and social manners are of high priority, she becomes infatuated with young Henry Tilney. She also meets her new best friend, Isabella Thorpe who has fallen in love with Catherine’s older brother, James Morland. Isabella and Catherine are entranced by novels such as Udolpho and spend many moments together talking about the literature they have and are reading.

Catherine then receives an invitation to join the Tilneys’ at their residence, Northanger Abbey. She gaily accepts, but not long after does she learn that Isabella’s brother, Mr. Thorpe, is in love with her! Shocked, Catherine turns down every hope of their ever having a relationship.

At Northanger Abbey, a gothic tale unfolds. Catherine is intrigued and spooked by the ancient residence and it’s inhibitants. She is also drawn to the room where Mrs. Tilney was said to have suddenly died; a room that nobody has touched since her death many years ago. Catherine sets her mind to uncovering the family’s secrets, even while she knows she mustn’t poke her nose into matters best left alone by ousiders of the Abbey.

Northanger Abbey, Jane Austen’s first written and last published novel, is a quick read compared to her other works. Her writing is light and witty, and her characters are put into many socially awkward positions giving the reader quite the shock and laugh.

Pride & Prejudice

Pride & Prejudice
By Jane Austen
Published by Bantom Dell (division of Random House, Inc) in 1981
334 Pages
Classic Literature

Cushions: 3/5
Paperclips: 1/5
Smiles: 3/5
Tissues: 2/5
Emina’s recommendation rating: ♥♥♥♥♥ (5 hearts!)

He is the most disagreeable man! So thought Elizabeth Bennet, the second oldest of five daughters in the Bennet family. Of course, she didn’t quite know Mr. Darcy. All she knew was that he was too proud to dance or converse with anyone at balls. But, Mr. Darcy stoops to an all time low when he dissuades Mr. Bingley from pursuing Jane, Elizabeth’s sister, and urges his friend to move away from his estate, Netherfield Park, and the Bennet family.

Mr. Darcy creates a horrible reputation for himself and readers are directed to believe his pride can only be the result of an unworthy character. However, one can tell that he does indeed take a second look at Elizabeth, who’s strong personality rocks his stability.

When the misunderstandings and prejudices are set right, do Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy have a chance at a happily ever after?

Jane Austen demonstrates her brilliant ability to create characters with wit, charm, and human deficiencies. (I have to say, the most comical character, IMO, is Mrs. Bennet and her poor nerves!) She weaves together relationships impacted by social standards and opinions. This enthralling classic is sure to reach and entice hearts of all ages.

I am definitely proud to say that Pride & Prejudice is never moving from it’s home of under my pillow.