Peter and the Starcatchers

The Starcatchers, Book 1

By: Dave Barry, Ridley Pearson

Narrated by: Jim Dale

Length: 8 hrs and 40 mins

Publisher's summary

Best-selling authors Dave Barry and Ridley Pearson have turned back the clock and revealed a wonderful story that precedes J. M. Barrie's beloved Peter Pan.

In an evocative and fast-paced adventure on the high seas and on a faraway island, an orphan boy named Peter and his mysterious new friend, Molly, overcome bands of pirates and thieves in their quest to keep a fantastical secret safe and save the world from evil.

This riveting adventure takes listeners on a journey from a harsh orphanage in old England to a treacherous sea in a decrepit old tub. Aboard the Never Land is a trunk that holds a magical substance with the power to change the fate of the world - just a sprinkle and wounds heal; just a dusting and people can fly. Towering seas and a violent storm are the backdrop for battles at sea. Bone-crushing waves eventually land our characters on Mollusk Island - where the action really heats up.

Peter and the Starcatchers is brimming with richly developed characters, from the scary but somehow familiar Black Stache and the ferocious Mister Grin to the sweet but sophisticated Molly and the fearless Peter.

Listen to the rest of the Starcatchers series.

©2004 Dave Barry and Ridley Pearson (P)2004 Brilliance Audio

Critic reviews

"The real lure is the richly drawn characters, especially the villains, who exhibit just the right amount of swagger and smirk." (Booklist)

"Jim Dale gives a one-man performance that is truly astonishing. He creates distinct voices for all the characters - pirates, women, British soldiers, and native tribesmen. Adults and children alike will enjoy this rollicking tale." (AudioFile)

A JUST FOR FUN READ

This was a cute and whimsy read, done at a crisp pace.. The many characterizations were done so well, as we're the action scenes (pirates and shipwrecks), and visualization (island jungle). The story got a little too weird near the end, (science fiction kind of creatures), but I persevered because I had to now the outcome. The narration was spot on. Any age reader would like this but especially young ones.

Slow start but by the middle hard to put down

I am by no means an expert when it comes to audiobooks. I am just constantly in pursuit of a book that I can listen to while I drive long distances. In order for a book to be a good candidate it needs to be a book that keeps me alert because of how interesting the plot is, and truthfully toward the beginning of the book, I did not think this book would be any good.

As you can see from my ratings, by the middle and end of the book, it was hard to pause the book. I really enjoyed how quickly paced the last half of the book was compared the beginning. Also, it took me far too long to realize that there were three separate ships in the first half. Later this becomes obvious but because I don't listen as intently while driving, I was thoroughly confused when the next chapter would have characters that I had never heard of.


Oh, also, don't let the fantasy elements make you think this is a book only for kids, I personally found it quite enjoyable despite not being the target audience.

With all that in mind, this book is easily worth it in terms of a purchase. I used a credit for it and I don't regret it at all. It's a pity the other books aren't in audiobook format, but I guess this means I'll have to read the rest later.

A fun pre-history to Peter Pan

I always look forward to anything read by Jim Dale. I own the entire Harry Potter series on cassette tape. What's a cassette tape? Go ask your father.
Dave Berry is also a favorite author. Again, I own tapes.
This book is simply a lot of fun! Dale's great characterizations, an engaging storyline, I couldn't put it down. It is appropriate for kids and adults and would make a great bedtime activity. 👍

Peter pan with a twist

The authors do a wonderful job of rewriting the story of peter pan. They've turned a classic children's fairy tale story into a wonderul adventure and really brought it to life. I love how they incorporated the orginal bits and pieces of the story of peter with their own back story. Wonderful book, I highly recommend it!

Utterly charming!!

What did you love best about Peter and the Starcatchers?

I love this series. It's compelling, imaginative, the characters are well drawn. I am an adult listener but adore a good, clever story like this with plot twists and turns, humor - enjoyable for all ages! Even if you didn't love Peter Pan, it's so fun!

What does Jim Dale bring to the story that you wouldn’t experience if you just read the book?

Great job, very easy to listen to! Love that I know which character is speaking by his voice even before he says

I love this version of peter pan

i think the legend of peter pan and the star stuff if fantastic, I was so wrapped up in the story that i did not know if this was the original or a spin off, it is a spin off but I loved it and can't wait to read the rest of the series

I Was very surprised at the CreativeNess of story!

I loved this book! so very creative and pulls you into the storyline and becomes it's own world without being to over bearing with references. seriously, Loved it!

Amazing Adventure!

We loved every minute of this adventurous story!
The story is well written and the narrator reading did a fabulous job.

Magical!

My son and I loved this book. This is a wonderful reimagining of Peter Pan. The story and the narrator held our attention and engaged us throughout our listen. I can't wait for book 2.

One of the Best Audio Books Yet!

My 11 yr old son and I LOVED this audio book! The narrator is one of my absolute favorites. The story is captivating and I was pleasantly surprised with how the author tied all of the pieces together. The ending was very good! Great Book, Highly Recommend!!