We adore retellings of classic stories, and Darling by K. Ancrum, published in 2021, instantly captivated our hearts. This dark, modern reimagining of Peter Pan unfolds in the vibrant cityscape of Chicago, seen through the eyes of 17-year-old Wendy Darling. On her very first night in her new home, Wendy encounters a mysterious boy named Peter who whisks her away on an adventure beyond her wildest dreams. But as the night unravels, it becomes clear that Peter is far more dangerous than he appears.

In this episode, we dive into the complexities of motherly roles, the representation of asexuality in YA literature, and the unsettling, darker themes woven into this novel. We also open up about our own experiences with relationships, drawing connections to track 28 of Taylor Swift’s The Tortured Poets Department, aptly titled “Peter.” As a special tribute, we celebrate Francine Pascal, the brilliant mind behind Sweet Valley High, reflecting on her lasting influence on the YA genre and our own lives.

Content Warning: Darling explores heavy themes including grooming, predatory behavior, and murder, which we discuss in depth during the episode.

Season 8 of The Tortured YA Lit Department is powered by angst, deep dives into Taylor Swift lyrics, and, of course, thought-provoking discussions. If you’re here just for the book talk, Taylor Talk begins at 58:42.

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Theme Music “Brat Pack”

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