Romeo and Juliet : A Unit Plan (Litplans on CD) : Book Review

Mary B. Collins presents an enthralling retelling of Shakespeare's enduring tragedy, "Romeo and Juliet," set in the vibrant city of Verona. The story unfolds with the ill-fated romance between two young lovers from feuding families, capturing the essence of the original play while infusing it with Collins' distinctive perspective and writing style.

Collins skillfully breathes life into the characters of Romeo and Juliet, endowing them with depth and complexity. Readers will be irresistibly drawn into their passionate and tragic love story as it unravels against the vivid backdrop of Verona. The author's meticulous attention to detail translates into vibrant and genuine depictions of the settings and the characters' emotional landscapes.

One remarkable aspect of Collins' retelling is her ability to strike a delicate balance between preserving the essence of the original play and infusing it with her own interpretation. While remaining faithful to the familiar events, she delves deeper into the motivations and innermost thoughts of the characters. This fresh perspective adds an exciting layer of complexity to the narrative, enabling readers to connect with the characters on a profound level.

Collins' prose flows seamlessly, capturing and holding readers' attention, effortlessly immersing them in the world of "Romeo and Juliet." Her writing exhibits an evocative and poetic quality, enhancing the inherent beauty of the story. The pacing is expertly executed, guiding readers through the peaks and valleys of Romeo and Juliet's relationship with a tantalizing mix of anticipation and raw emotion.

Overall, Mary B. Collins' retelling of "Romeo and Juliet" is a captivating and thought-provoking read. Whether readers are familiar with Shakespeare's original play or approaching the story for the first time, Collins' book offers a fresh perspective on a timeless tale of love and tragedy. Her masterful storytelling and meticulous attention to detail make this retelling a must-read for enthusiasts of the classic narrative.

What are readers saying?

Mary B. Collins' book "Romeo and Juliet" has received a variety of reviews, providing a diverse perspective on Shakespeare's classic play. The majority of reviewers highly praised Collins' retelling of this timeless tragic love story. They commended her ability to bring Shakespeare's words to life in a modern and accessible manner. Many readers found Collins' adaptation to be an excellent introduction for those who may feel intimidated by the original text. The reviewers particularly appreciated the engaging and easy-to-understand language used in the book, as it helped them fully comprehend the complexities of the plot and characters.

Another aspect of the book that garnered positive feedback was Collins' skillful characterization. She successfully captured the essence of Romeo and Juliet's passionate love, as well as the conflicts and motivations of the supporting characters. Readers felt a deep connection to the characters and were emotionally invested in their struggles, thanks to Collins' rich development and portrayal.

Reviewers also praised the book's pacing, as they found themselves fully engrossed in the story from start to finish. Collins' ability to maintain a sense of tension and suspense throughout the narrative was highly lauded, emphasizing how it heightened the impact of the play's tragic climax.

However, there were a few critical reviews regarding Collins' adaptation. Some readers felt that her interpretation deviated too much from Shakespeare's original work. While they appreciated the modernization, they believed that certain elements should have been preserved to maintain the play's authenticity. These readers expressed concern that Collins' changes weakened the impact and depth of the story.

In conclusion, Mary B. Collins' adaptation of "Romeo and Juliet" has garnered mostly positive reviews. Readers appreciated her ability to make Shakespearean language more accessible, as well as her effective characterization and compelling pacing. While some critics felt that the adaptation deviated too much from the original, overall, Collins' book is seen as an engaging and enjoyable retelling of a beloved classic.

ShakespeareanLove TragicRomance ClassicLiterature