Neverland: J. M. Barrie, the Du Mauriers, and the Dark Side of Peter Pan
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The untold story behind Peter Pan: The shocking account of J. M. Barrie's abuse and exploitation of the du Maurier family. Library Journal Dudgeon (The Woman of Substance: The Secret Life That Inspired the Renowned Storyteller Barbara Taylor Bradford) explores the relationship between J.M. Barrie, the author of Peter Pan, and the Du Maurier family. Dudgeon has extensively researched the literary work of George and Daphne Du Maurier and Barrie to draw parallels between their works and their real lives; he also uses archival material such as letters and third-party accounts. Dudgeon argues that Barrie had a close relationship with the Du Maurier boys, and he drew on this relationship in the creation of Peter Pan. Dudgeon also portrays Barrie as a dark and troubled man who may have used hypnotism to gain an obsessive control over the Du Maurier boys and their mother. He goes on to look at Barrie's link to the tragic demise of the boys, from the drowning of Michael to the suicide of Peter. VERDICT Given its detail and extensive reference to the literary works of Barrie and the Du Mauriers, this will appeal most to those with a specific interest in these authors.—Rebecca Bollen Manalac, Sydney, Australia\\
