John Leonard Pielmeier

I have always enjoyed Peter Pan retellings and I've read quite a few. Some are good and some aren't, but that's not unusual. I was hoping this retelling from Hook's point of view might be in the former group, but unfortunately, it was too bland for me.
The writing is somewhat archaic which slows the story down a bit, but mostly it's fine. I don't mind the attempt to make the 'villain' of Peter Pan into the 'hero' of Hook's Tale. I do think the author carried it a bit too far; Hook should have a little 'bad boy' still left in him. Even the crocodile loves him.
Mostly, I think the author just tried too hard to be cute about the story. The book dragged, and while I hoped it might pick up, it never did. I was never surprised; I know it's a retelling but what makes a good retelling is adding some twists to the story. Mr. Pielmeier seemed constrained by trying to limit himself to the original story. And I'm not a prude, but the sex scenes were odd and somewhat gratuitous (that whole part about Tink in his pocket so he climaxed was weird).
I think I'm being generous with three stars, but it's his first book although he's a well-known playwright. Next time I hope he creates his own story.… (altro)