Fantasy Book Review: Tiger Lily

Tiger Lily by Jodi Lynn Anderson

Fifteen-year-old Tiger Lily is betrothed to an awful young man in her tribe, and faces a dark and dreary future. She has always been told the Lost Boys are to be feared – that they are wild and may be cannibals. But when Tiger Lily meets Peter Pan, there is something about his casual, carefree manner that immediately attracts her. Soon Tiger Lily is risking her place among the tribe to be with Peter Pan and must choose the life she knows or run away with Pan. But when an English girl named Wendy arrives, Tiger Lily discovers an emotion she’s never known before – jealousy.

This is a beautiful retelling of a timeless classic from the perspective of Tinkerbell, the mute fairy. Marketed for young adults, instead of children, these characters are obviously older teens and already more grown than the original story. Neverland is a mysterious land where people stop aging at seemingly random ages. And Tiger Lily is a fearless an independent young woman. Her innocent relationship with Peter Pan is sweet and heart-breaking. Knowing Wendy will eventually steal Peter Pan’s heart, I expected a not-so happy ending. But Anderson has woven a dramatic and magical tale that is full of wonder and excitement. Tiger Lily is enchanting with beloved characters told in a fresh and unique perspective.