Geraldine McCaughrean
I had the really good fortune to meet Geraldine while she was on an extended two week tour in the US and Canada promoting her book Peter Pan in Scarlet. The setting was Washington DC. at a well known local independent bookstore-Politics and Prose. Contrary to the name, they have excellent and extensive children's and young adult book department. She also had her daughter with her which made for a good traveling companion and presented a wonderful opportunity to share the sights on this book tour. She also does not want her daughter to suffer the shyness that she has felt for most of her life (my observation is that there is no concern there because her daughter is quite outgoing and vivacious despite suffering from with a significant cold).
Geraldine is a quiet, soft-spoken and extremely modest person. You would never know that she has more than 130 books published and has won numerous and quite prestigious awards and honors. Originally trained as a teacher, she was too shy to really enjoy that as a career. As a result she began copyediting for a publisher-Marshall Cavendish. She also became acquainted with Oxford University Press and worked on story collections such as One Thousand and One Arabian Nights. Her collections entitled The Bronze Caldron, The Crystal Pool, The Silver Treasure, and The Golden Hoard are my among my favorite books. When I asked how she came to write the stories and whether a lot of research was involved, Geraldine really surprised me. She said she didn't go through tomes of myths and legends, but rather went to archeological sources and when a thread or shard intrigued her, it would becomes the stimulant for a story. It allowed her much more creativity. Some may argue that these are not true legends because they are not true to existing sources. One student likened the stories to a cook book-you collect the ingredients mix them up, and voila something delicious results. Every storyteller changes the story in the telling and adds his or her own ingredients.
Before undertaking PeterPan in Scarlet, Geraldine just said yes to whatever jobs came along. In some years she might undertake ten books. She does enjoy writing for children, and told me that she really started writing at age 12. Perhaps there was some influence from her mother who wrote a locally produced play. Geraldine herself is working on a play version of Peter Pan in Scarlet (just in case) and her daughter is an aspiring actress. (Could she be a future Peter Pan in Scarlet?) At any rate, the women in her family are certainly very talented.
I asked her how she came to undertake Peter Pan in Scarlet. It was the result of a contest that was being run for a very worthy cause. The copyright was running out for Peter Pan, the proceeds of which were supporting the Great Ormond Street Hospital for Sick Children, to which all rights of Peter Pan were given by J. M. Barrie in 1929. The hospital was looking for a way to ensure that funds will still be coming in. They decided that a sequel to Peter Pan was the solution. Geraldine entered the contest, but never expected to win. She submitted the first half of the first chapter and half of a middle chapter. When she won, then Geraldine moved into high gear--it took six months and she referred to the writing as more of "an affair of the heart" and "just plain fun."
I commented on the US cover for the book which was done by Tony DiTerlizzi. It is eye-catching, but doesn't quite match up with the story. Geraldine remarked that most of the other countries had maintained the original cover as published in the UK which I did get to see when she showed me her copy. The silhouettes by Scott M. Fischer in the American edition are wonderful, and she commented on how much she has enjoyed seeing them.
The book had been tightly held under wrap so it was surprising when a big article appeared in The New York Times in August 2006 when the book was not due out until October 2006. No one knows for sure how the writer got the information and her publisher didn't feel it was a real problem. Wasn't it Oscar Wilde who said--"The only thing worse than being talked about is not being talked about." While the writing went quickly, it took a bit of time for the manuscript to get through her round of editors and finally to Olmstead Hospital/estate and then to Simon & Schuster. During this period, she was busy trying to talk the book up without talking about the content. Also, Geraldine did not feel that it was necessary to delve too much into the character of the original author, although she did find it interesting that he was quite short--about 4 feet 10 inches tall--and that may have accounted for his looking at the world through the eyes of "child." Neither story is not simple and the language never talks down to readers.
Peter Pan in Scarlet is also available in audio format and Geraldine loves audio books. She particularly commented on the American audio books in general and noted that quite a few of her other books have also been published in audio format. Among her favorites works is Cyrano. It was a labor of love and she did it on the spur of the moment, because she really wanted it to sell on Valentine's Day.
Her home is a small village outside of London. Geraldine has achieved financial security from her books and does not need to undertake school visits, but she does them because it is something that is expected of an author. As all writers know, it does eat into writing time. Her husband John is a retired merchant seaman. Geraldine enjoys fishing, cooking, arts and crafts. She belongs to a society of storytellers, but not as a teller, but she doesn't mind doing readings from her books. I asked why she did not tell stories since the ones I have read are so delightful. She stated that she thinks slowly and is not able to stand up in front of an audience and improvise. She needs time to do that job and writing provides that time.
Our interview closed as Geraldine, her daughter and their escort Charlie Young from Simon & Schuster took her off to her next appointment in the DC area (three that day) on this whirlwind tour of New York, Boston, Chicago, Toronto and Ottawa.
To learn more about Geraldine McCaughrean, please visit her web site www.geraldinemcCaughrean.co.uk and the Q&A feature on the Simon & Schuster web site
Contributor: Marilyn Courtot
Reviews
Bronze Cauldron: Myths and Legends of the World
Geraldine McCaughrean; Read by Christian Rodska
Geraldine McCaughrean has collected a myriad of tales from around the world that testify to the richness of the oral tradition and the limitlessness of imagination. From each of the continents come stories of bubbling pots, the son of a sun god, a whale with magical boots, variations of the gingerbread baby, the honesty of the farmer's son, the outwitting of the mighty by the small, dragons, Buddhas, and a magical red shell--just to mention a few of the fabulous ingredients of McCaughrean's cauldron. Christian Rodska is a fine narrator for this folktale collection. His pleasure in the tales is evident as he provides emphasis and pause so that the listener can consider the intricacies of each story. When Rodska takes on a particular character with voice change or dialect, that is just enough to involve the listener in the immediacy of the tale. This is a recording that bears listening to repeatedly. Appreciation will grow each time. A.R. (c) AudioFile 2001, Portland, Maine 2001 (Orig. 1997), BBC Audiobooks America/ Chivers, Three cassetes, 3.5 hrs., Book pak, $24.95. Ages 8 up. Reviewer: Ann Ritchie (Audiofile, June/July 2001)
ISBN: 0-7540-5162-5
The Bronze Cauldron
Geraldine McCaughrean
Illustrated by Bee Willey.
Third in her collections of myths and legends of the world, McCaughrean retells a few familiar tales such as "Sadako and the Tsar of the Sea," "Doctor Faust," and "The Golem," but many of them will be new to readers. The scope is broad, and readers will savor delicacies from the Far East, Far North, and even the Northwest Pacific Coast. Many stories go back thousands of years, such as those telling of the exploits of Buddha and Taru, a Hittite weather god, while others like the story of Emperor Charlemagne and Doctor Faust are more contemporary. The tales are beautifully illustrated with pictures that range in size from little insets to full pages and are filled with interesting details that reflect the various cultures. This rich collection will bring so many hours of reading enjoyment that you may want to pick up the two predecessors, The Golden Hoard and The Silver Treasure. 1998, McElderry, $19.95. Ages 10 up. Reviewer: Marilyn Courtot (Children's Literature).
Best Books:
The Best Children's Books of the Year, 1999; Bank Street College of Education; United States
Children's Catalog, Eighteenth Edition, 2001; H.W. Wilson; United States
The Children's Literature Choice List, 1999; Children's Literature; United States
Middle And Junior High School Library Catalog, Eighth Edition, 2000; H.W. Wilson; United States
Notable Social Studies Trade Books for Young People, 1999; National Council for the Social Studies NCSS; United States
School Library Journal Book Review Stars, July 1998; Cahners; United States
ISBN: 0-689-81758-4
Casting the Gods Adrift: A Tale of Ancient Egypt
Geraldine McCaughrean
Illustrated by Patricia D. Ludlow
In just over 100 pages, readers will be exposed to the history of ancient Egypt, pharaohs, extravagant palaces, murder plots, sibling relationships, fierce loyalty to religious convictions and then some! Tutmose and his brother Ibrim (along with their father, Harkhuf), by way of an unpredictable occurrence, are learning the trades of their dreams in the palace of Akhenaten. This Pharaoh has dictated that the people only worship the sun god Aten, which throws the boys' world into turmoil as their father's very livelihood and faith has been dedicated to a number of gods. The events that follow are suspenseful and tense until the conclusion. Evocative illustrations are scattered throughout the chapters of the book. The illustrator has been providing drawings for children's books for over thirty years and it shows; not only are they convincing of the time period (1354-1351 B.C.) in their black-and-white composition, but they are highly emotive. Children will not even realize they are being taught a great deal about an important time of historical change as this story unfolds. The award-winning author (one award being the Carnegie Medal) has written well over a hundred books that have been published in 25 countries. She lives with her husband, daughter and dog in Berkshire, England. 2002, Cricket Books, $15.95. Ages 9 to 12. Reviewer: Cindy L. Carolan (Children's Literature).
Best Books:
Kirkus Book Review Stars, June 1, 2003; United States
ISBN: 0-8126-2684-2
The Crystal Pool
Geraldine McCaughrean; Read by Christian Rodska
One of the beauties of Geraldine McCaughrean's Myths and Legends of the World series is the subtle but strong evidence of story repetitions across cultures and across time. This newest collection reflects many parallels. The Gull-Girl of Siberia attempts flight as did Daedalus and Icarus. The clever wife who helps Anansi the Spider Man reminds us of other wise women assisting their husbands. Just as Demeter could not keep Persephone in her world, Freya cannot protect her son Balder with immortality. Christian Rodska is a fine narrator. His vocal variations provide a distinct glimpse into each character. As the omniscient presence, he underscores the outcomes and lessons with final pleasure or pain. A.R. (c) AudioFile 2002, Portland, Maine 2001 (Orig. 1998), BBC Audiobooks America/ Chivers, Four cassetes, 4.75 hrs., Book pak, $32.95. Ages 8 up. Reviewer: Ann Ritchie (Audiofile, February/March 2002)
ISBN: 0-7540-5211-7
The Crystal Pool
Geraldine McCaughrean
Illustrated by Bee Willey
How was the world created? What is the relationship of the gods to humans? How did evil, death, and misfortune enter a world which was created perfect by an all-good, all-knowing creator? What is virtue? These are the questions that story-tellers in every culture, in every time have tried to answer. McCaughrean retells a diverse collection of stories in accessible modern language, some well known in western culture like the myth of Isis and Osiris or the story of the Pied Piper of Hamelin, others from diverse cultures with a complex and epic body of legend, such as creation myths of the Maori people of New Zealand or the epic exploits of heroes in the Ramayana of India. Version of a flood story comes from ancient Sumeria, China, and the Bainang people of New Britain. Notes at the end of the text explain briefly the origin of each story, but the stories work their own magic on the imagination, giving readers a window into the heart and soul of the people who shared and preserved these stories over time. 1999, Simon & Schuster, 138 pages, $20.00. Ages 10 up. Reviewer: Jeanne M. McGlinn (The ALAN Review, Fall 1999 (Vol. 27, No. 1))
Best Books:
The Best Children's Books of the Year, 2000; Bank Street College of Education; United States
Children's Catalog, Eighteenth Edition, 2001; H.W. Wilson; United States
Middle And Junior High School Library Catalog, Eighth Edition, 2000; H.W. Wilson; United States
ISBN: 0-689-82266-9
Cyrano
Geraldine McCaughrean.
The classic play about a homely, poetic swordsman in love with a woman whom he feels is beyond him is brought to vivid life in this adaptation. In magically lyrical verse, McCaughrean breathes new energy into this old story while still keeping its romantic, adventurous authenticity. Cyrano is a character for the ages-a brave and kind person who sacrifices his own needs to do what he believes that his beloved Roxanne desires. He allows his handsome friend and fellow soldier, Christian, to use his words to woo Roxanne, who had already fallen for him from afar. Set against the backdrop of war, it truly is an enduring romance, and although the ending is far from happily-ever-after, teens are sure to get swept up in this epic tale. McCaughrean paints a vivid picture of long-ago France from the plumes (called panaches in those days) coming from gentlemen's hats to the delightful smells emanating from a local bakery. Her attention to detail makes this book a possible tie-in for both high school history and English classes. The complexity of the language might make it a better choice for upper middle school and high school readers, but the book is highly recommended for school and public library collections alike. VOYA CODES: 5Q 2P J S (Hard to imagine it being any better written; For the YA with a special interest in the subject; Junior High, defined as grades 7 to 9; Senior High, defined as grades 10 to 12) . 2006, Harcourt, 114p., $16. Ages 12 to 18. Reviewer: Shari Fesko (VOYA, December 2006 (Vol. 29, No. 5)).
ISBN: 978-0-15-205805-0
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The Epic of Gilgamesh
Retold by Geraldine McCaughrean
Illustrated by David Parkins
This is the saga of Gilgamesh, who was a real king of Uruk in Mesopotamia some time between 2700 and 3200 BC. His epic tale, the oldest known recorded story, originally was carved on a dozen stone tablets. Over the years, the tablets were broken into shards that scholars have studied, trying to piece together the story, which is, more or less, the account of Gilgamesh's perilous journey as he tries to learn the meaning of life. In the beginning Gilgamesh is a fairly typical king, intent on building monuments and waging wars and taxing his people. Then he meets Enkidu who becomes his dearest friend and together they go off on a quest. When the two men fight and kill the Bull of Heaven, the law demands punishment-one of them must die. After hearing the sentence, life seems to drain from Enkidu. When Enkidu dies, Gilgamesh finds the pain of the loss unbearable, yet he must bear it. In his grief, he begins another long and difficult journey searching for the secret of immortality. Through his journey he becomes a changed man and a kinder, more thoughtful ruler. This allegory, is skillfully, beautifully retold by the incomparable Ms. McCaughrean who has won every major prize for children's literature in Great Britain. Mr. Parkins, whose illustrations in this book are inspired by Assyrian art, has illustrated many children's books and been shortlisted for several prestigious awards. 2003, Eerdmans Books for Young Readers, $18.00. Ages 9 to 12. Reviewer: Janet Crane Barley (Children's Literature).
Best Books:
Children's Catalog, Eighteenth Edition, Supplement, 2004; H.W. Wilson
The Children's Literature Choice List, 2004; Children's Literature; United States
Kirkus Book Review Stars, September 15, 2003; United States
Middle and Junior High School Library Catalog, Ninth Edition, 2005; H.W. Wilson; United States
Middle and Junior High School Library Catalog, Supplement to the Eighth Edition, 2004, 2004; H.W. Wilson; United States
Notable Social Studies Trade Books for Young People, 2004; National Council for the Social Studies; United States
School Library Journal Book Review Stars, December 2003; Cahners; United States
School Library Journal: Best Books, 2003; Cahners; United States
Awards, Honors, Prizes:
Anne Izard Storytellers' Choice Award Winner 2006 United States
Nautilus Book Award Grand Prize 2004 Children's United States
ISBN: 0-80285-262-9
Father and Son: A Nativity Story
Geraldine McCaughrean
Ilustrated by Fabian Negrin
What would have been on Joseph's mind, and what would he have been feeling during the first quiet moments after the Christ Child was born? The author employs Joseph's voice in presenting his thoughts about being a "stand in" father to the Son of God. Thinking himself inadequate for his role as teacher, he concludes that the best he can offer is a "helping hand." This is, of course, the best one human can offer another. Negrin captures both the intimate moments between father and son-a loving hand on the face of a sleeping child, a secret shared, a ride on father's shoulders-and also the broad scope of the creator-a beautiful sunrise, a lightning storm, a hippo peeking out of a river full of lily pads. With the focus on Joseph and the wide range of images presented in the illustrations, this provides an interesting new perspective on the Christmas story. Indeed, this is a book that can be used all year in religious education classes. It will be a good discussion starter for older students. Parents and young children will appreciate the warmth and tenderness of the title. 2006, Hyperion Books for Children, $16.99. Ages 5 up. Reviewer: Sharon Salluzzo (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 1-4231-0344-0
The Golden Hoard: Myths and Legends of the World
Geraldine McCaughrean
Illustrated by Bee Willey
Here's a commendable blend of the familiar with lesser-known myths from remote corners of the world. Twenty-two fantastic tales are collected here from Greece, Persia, Ceylon, and more. Fifteen of the stories are classified as myths, however, most of the remaining legends in this book also concern supernatural forces that meddle in the lives of humans. Vibrant and dramatic accent pictures enhance the concise, enchanted stories. 1995, Margaret K. McElderry Books/Macmillan, $19.95. Ages 10 up. Reviewer: Deborah Zink (Children's Literature)
Best Books:
Best Children's Books of the Year, 1996; Bank Street College of Education; United States
Children's Catalog, Eighteenth Edition, 2001; H.W. Wilson; United States
Kaleidoscope, A Multicultural Booklist for Grades K-8, Third Edition, 2001; National Council of Teachers of English; United States
Lasting Connections, 1996; American Library Association; United States
Middle And Junior High School Library Catalog, Eighth Edition, 2000; H.W. Wilson; United States
Publishers Weekly Book Review Stars, April 1996; Cahners; United States
School Library Journal Book Review Stars, March 1996; Cahners; United States
School Library Journal: Best Books, 1996; Cahners; United States
ISBN: 0-689-80741-4
The Golden Hoard
Geraldine McCaughrean
Read by Nigel Lambert
High praise for this collection of fables and legends. Perhaps some of the stories are more familiar to British audiences, but many of them will be delightfully new to Americans. The international flavor of Russian, Bolivian, Japanese and Inuit legends is fascinating. Nigel Lambert treats each story to an individualized performance. His thoughtful characterizations, exaggerated or respectful as appropriate, combine with astute timing and his obvious interest in the literature. Combining the storyteller's approach with careful treatment of the history and the legends, Lambert provides entertainment for listeners of many ages. This program should be collected and cherished for the silver and gold of many happy listenings. R.F.W. Winner of AUDIOFILE Earphones Award (c)AudioFile, Portland, Maine 1996 (Orig. 1995), BBC Audiobooks America/ Chivers, Three cassetes, 3.5 hrs., Book pak, $24.95. Reviewer: Robin F. Whitten (Audiofile, January 1998)
ISBN: 0-7451-2538-7
The Jesse Tee
Geraldine McCaughrean
Ilustrated by Bee Willey
A boy on vacation asks for stories from a gruff old man carving a Jesse tree. Beginning with Jesse, the father of King David, stories related to the ancestry of Jesus are told, with the Christmas story as the climax. With each of the stories for the twenty-four days of Advent, a symbol is added to the Jesse tree by the old carver, who eventually becomes fond of the boy. The writing is contemporary, smooth, and filled with metaphor. In the story of King Saul's overthrow, when Jonathan was killed: "The cry that broke from David's throat was like a bell falling from its tower and breaking." In the Christmas story: "Shyly the shepherds explained themselves, twisting their fingers into nervous knots, apologizing. Then they knelt down, before their trembling knees could give way." Jesse trees were popular as storytelling devices during the Middle Ages. Though many were later destroyed or damaged, today the idea is being revived. The strange, wispy, colored pictures emphasize people's noses. This is a book for the church library and for parents and children to read at any time, but especially during Advent. 2005 (orig. 2003), Eerdmans Books for Young Readers, $20.00. Ages 5 to 12. Reviewer: Carlee Hallman (Children's Literature).
Best Books:
Publishers Weekly Book Review Stars, August 29, 2005; Cahners; United States
ISBN: 0-80285-288-2
The Kite Rider: A Novel
Geraldine McCaughrean
Winner of the Carnegie Medal for A Pack of Lies, McCaughrean is a writer of insight and depth. Here, she makes a foray into thirteenth-century China through the eyes of twelve-year-old Haoyou. After watching his beloved father die while being forced to "test the wind" for a voyage on a makeshift kite, Haoyou's future becomes entwined with kites. Trying to defend his widowed mother from the advances of the villainous Di Chou, he ends up apprenticed to the noble Miao Jié and his Jade Circus as a kite rider. Called "the Phoenix," Haoyou soars through the sky upriver from the sea to Dadu City (Beijing) and beyond(until the family patriarch Uncle Bo appears to crimp his style. Laden with adventure(even meetings with Kublai Khan(the novel believably recreates the long gone world of Cathay. Along the way Haoyou must grow from childhood to wisdom as he grapples with Confucian tenets of obedience. His fortunes and insight rise and swoop like the kites he rides through the heavens. And McCaughrean guides it all, allowing the occasional line to sing with shear beauty. It is a lovely book. 2002, HarperCollins, $6.99. Ages 12 up. Reviewer: Kathleen Karr (Children's Literature).
Best Books:
Best Books for Young Adults, 2003; American Library Association-YALSA; United States
The Best Children's Books of the Year, 2003; Bank Street College of Education; United States
Booklist Book Review Stars, May 15, 2002; United States
Children's Catalog, Eighteenth Edition, Supplement, 2003; H.W. Wilson; United States
The Children's Literature Choice List, 2002; Children's Literature; United States
Fanfare Honor List, 2002; Horn Book; United States
Kirkus Book Review Stars, May 15, 2002; United States
Middle and Junior High School Library Catalog, Supplement to the Eighth Edition, 2003; H.W. Wilson; United States
Middle and Junior High School Library Catalog, Ninth Edition, 2005; H.W. Wilson; United States
Notable Books for a Global Society, 2003; Special Interest Group of the International Reading Association; United States
Notable Children's Books, 2003; American Library Association-ALSC; United States
Notable Social Studies Trade Books for Young People, 2003; National Council for the Social Studies NCSS; United States
School Library Journal Book Review Stars, June 2002; Cahners; United States
School Library Journal: Best Books, 2002; Cahners; United States
Awards, Honors, Prizes:
Smarties Book Prize Bronze Award Winner 2001 Ages 9-11 United Kingdom
State and Provincial Reading Lists:
Beehive Award, 2004-2005; Nominee; Young Adult; Utah
Rebecca Caudill Young Readers' Book Award, 2005; Nominee; Illinois
ISBN: 0-06-441091-9
My Grandmother's Clock
Geraldine McCaughrean
Illustrated by Stephen Lambert
Time is more than the hours and minutes shown on the face of a clock, as a young girl discovers in this lovely story. She wonders why the hands never move on the grandfather's clock in her grandmother's home, so she opens the door to see what is inside the clock and finds only an umbrella, a walking stick, and a picture of King Zog. She tells her grandparents that the clock must be fixed, but they disagree. Granddad insists that the clock tells the right time twice a day and Grandma says she has other ways to tell the time. Seconds are counted by the beating of her heart and minutes measured by "how long it takes to think a thought and put it into words." An hour is enough time for the bath water to go cold and Grandma knows the days by what happens in her neighborhood and the years by how the little girl has grown. Nonetheless, the child insists that Grandma does need the grandfather clock. Why? The story is brought full circle by her response, "Where else would you keep your umbrella and Grandpa's walking stick and the picture of King Zog?" This relaxed approach to the subject of time is welcome in this era when so many children, as well as adults, live their lives on tight schedules. 2002, Clarion/Houghton Mifflin, $15.00. Ages 4 to 7. Reviewer: Carolyn Mott Ford (Children's Literature)
When our young narrator wonders why her Grandma doesn't fix the grandfather clock in her house, Grandma lyrically describes for her the many other ways she has to tell time. The day is over, for example, "when your mother kisses you good night." For the days of the week, she has the smell of baking on Monday to family gatherings on Sunday. The tides keep Moon Time. The seasons "are easy," from spring blossoms to winter when "your breath turns to dragon smoke." As she goes on to the centuries, she notes that "Time's just too big to fit inside any watch or clock." Lambert's soft-edged scenes of a seaside house and rolling country landscape with interactive characters include just enough details to set the stage. Colors provide emotional underpinnings for the concepts. The "autumn trees on fire" radiate in cloud-like masses of red-orange dominating the double page. A brief story filled with food for thought and discussion. 2002, Clarion Books/Houghton Mifflin Company, $15.00. Ages 4 to 8. Reviewers: Ken Marantz and Sylvia Marantz (Children's Literature).
Best Books:
The Best Children's Books of the Year, 2003; Bank Street College of Education; United States
ISBN: 0-618-21695-2
One Thousand and One Arabian Nights
Retold by Geraldine McCaughrean
Illustrated by Steven Lavis.
Veiled and exotic Scheherazade, the master storyteller, has her own story of love and intrigue, which the author has delicately woven around the spellbinding legends that have come to be known as the tales of the Arabian Nights. Scheherazade uses plots and fables to mesmerize the powerful king and hold back the executioner's ax. From Ali Baba to Aladdin, from Sinbad to lesser known but equally entertaining genies, her tales are full of humor, horror, wisdom, deceit, incredible adventure and love. This exciting version of the Arabian Nights is a magic carpet ride over the distant desert with just enough lavish illustrations (and more than enough descriptive language) to ignite the imagination. 1996, Oxford Illustrated Classics, $12.95. Ages 8 up. Reviewer: Deborah Zink (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 0-19-274500-X
Peter Pan in Scarlet
Geraldine McCaughrean
Illustrated by Scott M. Fischer
The first thing you notice about this book is the wonderful jacket illustration. Tony DiTerlizzi does an amazing job of capturing the reader's imagination by portraying the illustrious Peter Pan wearing the beautiful scarlet jacket for which this "first-ever authorized sequel to J. M. Barrie's Peter Pan" is named. The illustrations by Scott M. Fischer are reminiscent of the beautiful artwork of the 1980 edition of Peter Pan by Trina Schart Hymen, yet maintain the integrity of this new volume as it chronicles the continued "life" of Peter. McCaughrean was chosen to write the book after winning a competition held by the Great Ormond Street Hospital for Sick Children, to which all rights of Peter Pan were given by J. M. Barrie in 1929. Taking place in the 1930s, the story begins as the "lost boys" and the Darling children, John and Wendy, who are all now grown, find themselves dreaming of Neverland. They decide that Peter Pan must be in trouble and the dreams are calling them back to help him. But how do you return to a place of your childhood, a place of fairies, pirates, wild animals, and Indians? Why, you find a fairy, and steal some fairy dust! Then you become young again and fly off to Neverland to find Peter and see what is causing the dreams and how you can help stop them. The children are off on an adventure that rivals that of the original story. McCaughrean has captured the flavor of Barrie's story and created new adventures to continue the excitement of Peter Pan. It isn't necessary to have recently read Peter Pan, but a look at the 1911 story prior to the reading of this new episode, will allow the reader to see how well McCaughrean has remained true to the original story and characters. Almost all of the characters are there, Peter, Tinkerbell, Hook, Smee, the Lost Boys, Wendy, and John, as well as many others and a few new characters, like the Ravelling Man and Fireflyer. With a blend of early 20th century writing and ideas and contemporary language and ideas, McCaughrean has woven a connection to Peter and Neverland for present and future generations. Adventure follows adventure as life goes on in Neverland, but a Neverland unlike the one the children remember from days gone by. Details of the story are for reading, and the reader will surely embrace the magic of Peter Pan and his scarlet coat. 2006, Margaret K. McElderry Books/Simon and Schuster, $17.99. Ages 8 up. Reviewer: Naomi Williamson (Children's Literature).
Best Books:
Kirkus Book Review Stars, October 15, 2006; United States
ISBN: 1-4169-1808-6
Peter Pan
J. M. Barrie
Read by Tim Curry
Tim Curry has a wonderful, sonorous voice. He draws the listener into this unabridged recording of the classic children's story, Peter Pan. With his voice, Mrs. Darling is tender and gay; and her husband, a bit stodgy and humorless. Wendy is carefree yet responsible; Peter, the boy who won't grow up, is an adventurer--impulsive, petulant, and loyal. Mr. Curry does an excellent job of making Captain Hook fierce and menacing. And he does justice to all of the other characters, John and Michael, Tinkerbell, the Lost Boys, the Redskins, and the pirates. They come to life through Mr. Curry's skillful and talented inflections. But, because the recording is unabridged, there are many places where the story loses its momentum. When the narrator goes on and on explaining or describing things between action scenes, children may lose interest or let their minds wander. This happens early on with the author's prose setting the stage for the arrival of Peter Pan. When it becomes clear that the Darling children are game for an adventure with Peter Pan, the pace picks up. Curry does his best to hold the listener's interest, and for older children, more familiar with some of the sophisticated vocabulary, it will be easier to stick with the whole story. In this fantasy, the Darling children, Wendy, John, and Michael, have a nanny, who also happens to be a dog. The narrator explains that the family is poor, and so cannot afford another nanny. But Nana the dog turns out to be a very competent caretaker. Listeners also learn that Mrs. Darling, like other mothers, "rummage" through their children's minds each night when they are asleep-this being done to put things in order. This is how Mrs. Darling first learns about Peter Pan. She actually sees him one night. When Peter, who has all his baby teeth, sees that Mrs. Darling is a grown up, he flees-but not before Nana catches his shadow. Of course, Peter must return for his shadow, and on that occasion, convinces Wendy, who convinces John and Michael, to fly with him to Neverland. A little bit of fairy dust, and they fly out of the window, up into the sky and over to Neverland. One million "golden arrows," courtesy of the sun, point the way as the children get close to the much anticipated island, where adventures await them. Peter takes Wendy to the Lost Boys, who live underground to hide from the pirates. The lost boys plead with Wendy to be their "mother." She takes her new role very seriously, reading bedtime stories to the boys, and giving them their "medicine" (only water). Wendy is content, but John and Michael long for adventure. Soon they learn about Captain Hook, and how he lost his arm. During a fight, Peter threw his arm to the crocodile in the lagoon. This crocodile, which terrifies the captain, once swallowed a clock and so "tick tocks" its presence wherever it swims. Hook hates Peter for his cockiness and vows revenge. There is also Tiger Lily, the beautiful "Redskin" who is captured by the Pirates when she is caught trying to board their ship with a knife in her mouth. Peter saves her with his bravery and cunning. When the pirates discover the home of the lost boys, they hatch a plot to kidnap the boys and make them walk the plank and to steal Wendy to be their own mother. Before the pirates put this plan into action, Wendy decides it is time to go home-she misses her own mother. She convinces her brother and the lost boys to return with her. Wendy assures the lost boys that her mother will adopt them. She pleads with Peter to come also: he asks her if he will have to go to school, if he will have to "grow up" essentially. When she tells him yes, he refuses. As the children prepare to go home, the pirates ambush them and take them to the ship. Hook leaves poison for Peter. As he is about to drink it, Tinkerbell grabs it and drinks it herself so that Peter will not be poisoned. Listeners are told that Tinkerbell, who has been very jealous of Wendy, can only be saved if children believe in fairies. Alas, she is saved and Peter heads for the pirate ship to save his friends. The ensuing fight will engage listeners, as they hope that Peter will emerge the victor. Listeners will not be disappointed. After Peter wages his successful battle, Wendy and the children return home to find that their parents and Nana have missed them terribly. The Disney version of Peter Pan is very entertaining and, likely, the version with which many children are most familiar. The original story has many appealing parts, but also contains paragraphs and paragraphs that seem superfluous and detour from the main themes. This unabridged version may be suitable for long car trips and children with strong attention spans. The book uses the term "Redskins" to describe the island natives; and also refers to them as "noble savages." 2006, Simon & Schuster, Ages 8 up, $29.95. Reviewer: Jeanne K. Pettenati
ISBN: 0-7435-6452-9
ISBN: 978-0-7435-6452-6
The Silver Treasure
Gerldine McCaughrean
Illustrated by Bee Willey.
As they did in their previous collaboration for the award winning book, The Golden Hoard, author and artist have presented a new collection that includes a few favorites such as "The Tower of Babel," "William Tell," "Rip Van Winkle," plus quite a few tales not so widely known. Particularly moving is the opening story "The Silver-Miners" which tells of the oppressed natives in Bolivia forced to desecrate their land in search of silver for the harsh Spanish conquerors. The mountain Parichata gives away its silver to save the people and the land. This collection of 23 stories will transport readers This collection of 23 stories will transport readers all over the world introducing a wonderful variety of cultures. 1997, Simon & Shuster, $19.95. Ages 10 up. Reviewer: Marilyn Courtot (Children's Literature).
Best Books:
The Best Children's Books of the Year, 1999; Bank Street College of Education; United States
Children's Catalog, Eighteenth Edition, 2001; H.W. Wilson; United States
Middle And Junior High School Library Catalog, Eighth Edition, 2000; H.W. Wilson; United States
School Library Journal Book Review Stars, April 1997; Cahners; United States
ISBN: 0-689-81322-8
Smile!
Geraldine McCaughrean
Illustrated by Ian McCaughrean
Imagine being stranded in the tropics with not much more than a Polaroid camera. You may no longer appreciate the technology of instant photography, but villagers who have never before seen a camera think that it is magic. "Flash" is the nickname of the semiprofessional photographer and pilot who crashes his plane amid a group of friendly but curious tribal people. Flash has only ten pictures left in his camera; only ten opportunities to help the villagers capture and forever preserve their meaningful moments. Flash does some quick and creative thinking to handle a variety of potentially challenging situations. In the end he manages to please and impress all of the people, including himself. There is a reference to a psychedelic experience that may be over the head of younger readers. For the most part, though, this is a tender and touching story that will help readers gain an appreciation and understanding of other cultures. 2006 (orig. 2004), Random House, $14.95and $16.99. Ages 10 up. Reviewer: Denise Daley (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 0-375-83640-3
ISBN: 0-375-93640-8
Stop The Train!
Geraldine McCaughrean
Read by Ellen Myrick and the Full Cast Family
After the Oklahoma territory is opened to settlers in 1889, ten-year-old Cissy, her parents, and several other pioneers travel aboard the Red Rock Railroad to Florence. Shortly after their arrival, the son of the Red Rock Railroad's president offers each settler $50 for their plot of land. The settlers refuse the offer and the president of the Red Rock Railroad declares that his train will never again stop in Florence. The citizens of Florence try every which way to get the train to stop-apply lard to the tracks, shoot the train, and tie a girl to the tracks. One day, outsiders get a taste of the Florentine's hospitality and threaten to boycott if the train does not stop in Florence. The threat works and the Red Rock Railroad makes daily stops again. This audio book, based on the difficulties of the early American settlers, is a pleasure to listen to. The character's voices and personalities, as well as the original music are memorable. Today's children will find it interesting to hear about how the young characters in this story learn nontraditional lessons from a schoolteacher that does not read or write. This unabridged, quality production, comprised of eight compact discs, is an entertaining way to learn about America's pioneers. Young readers will be impressed by the character's courage and spirit as they work together to stop the train. 2005, Full Cast Audio, $39.00. Ages 10 up. Reviewer: Mary Jo Edwards (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 1-93332-242-X
The White Darkness
Geraldine McCaughrean
Going to Paris is a trip of a lifetime, especially for fourteen-year-old, Sym. She does not get to Paris but rather she ends up in Antarctica. Luckily for her, it is a place she has always wanted to go. Her father is dead and his business partner, Victor, takes her on this incredible journey. Uncle Victor is really insane and the extent of his madness comes out. Sym is not really the typical middle school girl either. She is not into boys, passing notes, and make-up. She is into Captain Lawrence (Titus) Oates, a hero of the Antarctic who is no longer alive. Her fate is not the same as Titus Oates, but he does play a large roll in her adventure. She relies on him, confides in him, and needs him. Titus Oates is real--as real as he can be in Sym's head. When the expedition gets out of control, Sym struggles for her life, learns to rely on those who are not there, and finds true love along the way. She learns a lot about survival, about herself, and her uncle. The scenery is beautifully described in vivid details and elaborated scenes. The pages turn quickly and excitingly like the reader is there in the mix. Readers will find something they can connect with, be in awe of, and will realize not everything is what it seems. 2005, HarperTempest/HarperCollins, Ages 12 up, $16.99. Reviewer: Kelly Grebinoski (Children's Literature).
Best Books:
Kirkus Book Review Stars, December 1, 2006; United States
ISBN: 0-06-089035-5
ISBN: 0-06-089036-3
ISBN: 978-0-06-089035-3
ISBN: 978-0-06-089036-0
Added 06/01/07
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If you’re interested in reviewing children's and young adult books, then send a resume and writing sample to marilyn@childrenslit.com.