Simply Shakespeare: Readers Theatre for Young People : Book Review

Simply Shakespeare by Suzanne I. Barchers is a comprehensive guide that aims to introduce young readers to the famous works of William Shakespeare. The book simplifies and makes accessible five of Shakespeare's plays: Macbeth, A Midsummer Night's Dream, Hamlet, Romeo and Juliet, and Julius Caesar. What sets this book apart is the inclusion of engaging activities, discussion questions, and vocabulary exercises that enhance understanding and appreciation of Shakespeare's language.

Barchers successfully presents Shakespeare's plays in a way that is easy for young readers to understand. She uses modern language and concise summaries of the plots, which makes it less intimidating for those who may find Shakespeare's original texts difficult. The book even includes side-by-side comparisons of key scenes from the plays with modern translations, helping readers to fully grasp the meaning of Shakespeare's profound language.

One of the strengths of Simply Shakespeare is the range of interactive activities it offers. From creating character puppets to staging scenes, these activities encourage readers to actively engage with the plays and explore their themes in a deeper way. The book also provides comprehension questions and vocabulary exercises that test and enhance comprehension and language skills. These features make the book a valuable resource for teachers and parents who want to introduce Shakespeare to young readers in creative ways.

Moreover, Simply Shakespeare provides valuable historical context and background information on Shakespeare, his era, and the theater of his time. This helps readers understand the cultural and historical significance of his works, making the plays more relatable and meaningful. Barchers also includes a glossary of common Shakespearean terms, which makes it easier for readers to navigate the language and nuances of the plays.

In conclusion, Simply Shakespeare by Suzanne I. Barchers is an excellent resource for introducing young readers to the works of William Shakespeare. Through simplified language, engaging activities, and valuable background information, Barchers successfully demystifies Shakespeare and promotes an appreciation for his timeless plays. Whether used in a classroom setting or for independent study, this book is a valuable tool for fostering a love of Shakespeare in young readers.

What are readers saying?

Simply Shakespeare by Suzanne I. Barchers has been met with a generally positive response from readers. The book has an average rating of 3.83 out of 5 stars and is praised for its engaging style and accessibility to young readers, making Shakespeare more approachable.

Readers appreciate the book for its simplified adaptations of Shakespeare's plays, with many highlighting its effectiveness in introducing the Bard's works to a younger audience. The language is lauded for being clear, easy to understand, and still capturing the essence of Shakespeare's original writings.

The interactive features of the book, such as character lists, scene summaries, and discussion questions, are also well-received. These elements help readers navigate the plays and deepen their understanding of the stories and themes. The inclusion of activities and games adds an interactive and enjoyable dimension to the reading experience, making it both educational and entertaining.

The book is particularly valued in educational settings, with teachers and homeschooling parents finding it to be a valuable resource. It allows students to be exposed to Shakespeare's works at a young age and is considered a useful tool for teaching literature, drama, and language arts. By fostering a love for Shakespeare and his plays among young learners, Simply Shakespeare helps students develop a deeper appreciation and understanding of literature and drama.

While some reviewers criticize the book for oversimplifying the original text, the majority recognize that the simplifications are necessary to make Shakespeare's plays more accessible to a younger audience. Overall, Simply Shakespeare by Suzanne I. Barchers is well-regarded for its engaging writing style, interactive features, and educational value. It serves as an excellent introduction to Shakespeare's works for young readers, nurturing a love for literature and drama and encouraging a greater appreciation and understanding of the Bard's plays.

SimplyShakespeare ShakespeareClassics MustReadShakespeare