TIGER LILY AND THE SECRET TREASURE OF NEVERLAND

Told from the perspective of Tiger Lily, this story reframes Disney’s retelling of J.M. Barrie’s classic.

A foreword by Dimaline (Métis) 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.