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Peter and the Starcatchers

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2004

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Book Brief

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Dave Barry

Peter and the Starcatchers

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2004
Book Details
Pages

452

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Atlantic Ocean • Victorian Era

Publication Year

2004

Publisher

Disney-Hyperion

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

8-12 years

Lexile Level

710L

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Super Short Summary

Peter and the Starcatchers follows Peter, an orphan, who gets involved with Molly Aster, a Starcatcher protecting mystical starstuff from falling into evil hands. Adventuring on the ship Never Land, they face pirates like Black Stache and magical creatures, ultimately discovering their destinies. The story contains depictions of encounters with predatory animals and combat scenes.

Adventurous

Fantastical

Playful

Humorous

Exciting

Reviews & Readership

4.3

78,612 ratings

75%

Loved it

19%

Mixed feelings

6%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Peter and the Starcatchers by Dave Barry, generally lauded for its imaginative storytelling and endearing characters, captures the essence of a classic adventure. While the humor and inventive plot have garnered praise, some readers find its pacing uneven. This prequel to Peter Pan appeals to both young readers and adults, successfully blending whimsy with adventure.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Peter and the Starcatchers?

Readers who delight in fast-paced, whimsical adventures will enjoy Dave Barry's Peter and the Starcatchers. Fans of J.M. Barrie’s Peter Pan will appreciate this prequel, while those captivated by J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter series will find similar charm and intrigue. Ideal for middle-grade readers who love magical tales.

4.3

78,612 ratings

75%

Loved it

19%

Mixed feelings

6%

Not a fan

Character List

Peter

The red-haired protagonist, an orphan between 11 and 14 years old, who is brave, clever, and deeply devoted to his friends. He leads his fellow orphans through challenges while grappling with his feelings about growing up and finding a place to call home.

A resourceful and intelligent girl around Peter’s age, who is training to become a Starcatcher. She has a strong sense of duty to protect the magical starstuff and forms a close bond with Peter during their adventures.

The primary antagonist and second-in-command on the ship Never Land, belonging to a sinister group known as the Others. He is cunning, ruthless, and will stop at nothing to gain power.

A notorious and feared pirate, seeking the magical treasure aboard the ship the Wasp. He is known for his ruthless tactics and his infamous long moustache.

An old sailor on the Never Land who forms a bond with Peter and aids the children in their adventures. Driven by his longing for happiness, he becomes a trusted ally.

Peter’s fellow orphans from St. Norbert’s Home for Wayward Boys, who are based on the Lost Boys from Peter Pan. Each has distinct traits, like Prentiss being fearful and Tubby Ted focusing on food, and they collectively support and challenge Peter and Molly.

Book Details
Pages

452

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Atlantic Ocean • Victorian Era

Publication Year

2004

Publisher

Disney-Hyperion

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

8-12 years

Lexile Level

710L

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