Originally, I hadn’t planned on reading this book. It was yet another case of judging a book by its cover. You have to admit that the cover of this book, along with all of the pictures you find on the back and within its pages, are pretty creepy and would make you think it would be some kind of horror-type book. It was when my friends and I saw the trailer of the newly-released movie version that we were caught off guard as it looked really good and completely different to my original thought of what it could be about.
Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children is about a boy named Jacob who, after an unfortunate and quite peculiar event happens close to home, starts to discover a whole new world. After hearing so many stories growing up about these children with special abilities that lived in this grand house on an island, Jacob starts to believe his grandfather made most of it up. With his grandfather’s last words sending him to the island himself, Jacob sets off to discover the truth.
The story started off a little slow but once it started to pick up, I had a hard time putting it down. I really enjoyed how the world was so incredibly unique. It did have its creepy moments but all in all, it was a really cool, supernatural read. It kind of reminded me of a darker take on The X-Men but instead of those with abilities being called mutants, they’re known as peculiar. I can definitely see why Tim Burton had his eyes set on this one for his next film project. The book was just so, as Cat mentioned today, “whimsical, funny, dark and creepy” all at once. We even had the chance to see the movie tonight after book club and I think they did a really good job. They did change a few things but that happens a lot with book-to-movie adaptations. Plus, Tim Burton really made it his own and I’ve always loved his style.
If you want to find something dark for the Halloween Season but you’re not into horror stories, this book is perfect for you. I really enjoyed reading it and I already have the next two books in the series ready on my bedside table for October!
Cat and I both give this book a 4.5 out of 5 while B gives this book a 5!
P.S. I can’t wait to announce October’s book of the month tomorrow! It’s going to be yet another dark story, ready for the Halloween season and we can’t wait to read it.
Until tomorrow!
Mel.