William Shakespeare's A Midsummer Night's Dream (Shakespeare Retellings, #2) : Book Review

Bruce Coville's retelling of "A Midsummer Night's Dream" by William Shakespeare is a captivating adaptation that breathes new life into the beloved comedy. Coville skillfully presents the story in a way that is accessible and enjoyable for readers of all ages. He takes us on a journey with a group of lovers and mischievous fairies, blending their lives together with hilarious misunderstandings and charming magical interventions.

Coville's storytelling maintains the essence of Shakespeare's original play while infusing it with his own creativity and wit. Through his vivid descriptions and witty dialogue, he brings the characters to life in a way that adds depth and charm to the story. Each character, from the bumbling Bottom to the mischievous Puck, has a distinct personality that shines through Coville's writing.

What sets Coville's adaptation apart is his ability to make Shakespearean language approachable and lyrical. He provides helpful footnotes and explanations throughout the book, making it easier for readers to understand the intricacies of Shakespeare's language and references. This makes it an ideal introduction to Shakespeare for young readers, who may find his original works intimidating.

One of the strongest aspects of Coville's adaptation is his ability to capture the enchanting and whimsical nature of the play. The world of the fairies is beautifully depicted, invoking a sense of wonder and awe. Coville's imaginative descriptions and vivid imagery transport readers into the mystical realm of the forest, allowing them to fully immerse themselves in the magic of the story.

Overall, "William Shakespeare's A Midsummer Night's Dream" by Bruce Coville is a fantastic adaptation that brings Shakespeare's enchanting tale to life. The engaging storytelling, relatable characters, and magical atmosphere make it a captivating read for both Shakespeare enthusiasts and those new to his work. Coville's talent shines through in this adaptation, making it a must-read for anyone who appreciates the original play and those who are curious about Shakespeare's genius.

What are readers saying?

Opinions on Bruce Coville's adaptation of William Shakespeare's "A Midsummer Night's Dream" vary among readers. Some praised Coville for his attempt to make the classic play more accessible to younger audiences, commending his efforts to simplify the language and clarify the story. They found his adaptation engaging and entertaining, especially for children and young adults who may struggle with Shakespearean language. Many reviewers noted that Coville's retelling helped them better understand the characters and plot of "A Midsummer Night's Dream."

However, some readers who were already familiar with Shakespeare's original text felt that Coville's adaptation oversimplified the language and diluted the magic of Shakespeare's writing. They believed that the changes made were unnecessary and that Coville's version lacked the complexity and depth of the original work.

The addition of illustrations in Coville's adaptation received mixed reviews. Several readers appreciated the illustrations, finding that they enhanced the reading experience and brought the story to life. These illustrations were particularly enjoyed by younger readers, who found them visually appealing.

On the other hand, some readers felt that the illustrations were unnecessary and took away from the text. They found them somewhat cartoonish and believed that they hindered the imagination and interpretation that reading the original play would provide.

In conclusion, opinions on Bruce Coville's adaptation of "A Midsummer Night's Dream" are divided. While some readers appreciated his efforts to make Shakespeare more accessible, others felt that his changes took away from the beauty and depth of the original play. The addition of illustrations was also a point of contention, with some readers enjoying them and others finding them unnecessary.

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