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

"William Shakespeare's" by Bruce Coville is an enchanting collection of seven of Shakespeare's most famous plays, reimagined for young readers. Coville's skillful storytelling and vibrant language bring these timeless tales to life in a way that is accessible and engaging for readers of all ages.

The book begins with an insightful introduction that provides background information on Shakespeare, his plays, and the Elizabethan era. Coville then proceeds to retell seven beloved plays, including "Romeo and Juliet," "Macbeth," and "A Midsummer Night's Dream." Each retelling stays true to the original plot and characters while incorporating Coville's own storytelling flair.

One of the standout features of "William Shakespeare's" is Coville's ability to capture the essence of Shakespeare's language and make it approachable for young readers. He preserves the beauty and poetic nature of the original text while ensuring that it is easier to understand and follow. This allows readers to fully appreciate the magic of Shakespeare's words and the brilliance of his storytelling.

The inclusion of illustrations by multiple artists is another strength of the book. These illustrations brilliantly depict key scenes and characters, immersing the reader in the world of Shakespeare. Whether it's the tender moment between Romeo and Juliet or the mischievous antics of the fairies in "A Midsummer Night's Dream," the illustrations enhance the stories in a visually stunning way.

Overall, "William Shakespeare's" by Bruce Coville is a must-read for both Shakespeare enthusiasts and young readers new to his works. Coville's masterful storytelling and his ability to make Shakespeare's language accessible make this book a true gem. Whether used for educational purposes or pure enjoyment, this retelling serves as a wonderful introduction to the world of Shakespeare and his timeless tales.

What are readers saying?

Bruce Coville's adaptation of "William Shakespeare's" has garnered a mixture of feedback from readers. With a total of 1,559 ratings, the book has received a diverse range of opinions.

Some reviewers praise Coville for his engaging storytelling and writing style. They appreciate how he introduces Shakespeare's plays to younger readers in a way that is both accessible and entertaining. Many readers mention how Coville's retelling injects fresh life into these timeless stories and makes them enjoyable for both children and adults.

However, there are also reviewers who express disappointment with Coville's adaptation. They criticize his decision to simplify the Shakespearean language, arguing that it diminishes the essence and beauty of the original plays. These readers believe that Shakespeare's language should be experienced as it was written, rather than watered down for younger audiences.

A common theme among many reviewers is their admiration for the book's illustrations. They highlight the vivid and captivating artwork by various artists, which adds visual appeal and enhances the storytelling experience. The illustrations are applauded for their ability to capture the mood and spirit of each play, bringing them to life on the pages.

Nonetheless, there are also reviewers who find fault with the illustrations. They contend that the characters and scenes from the plays are inaccurately represented, and feel that the artwork is too cartoonish. These readers believe that the illustrations ultimately detract from the overall enjoyment of the book.

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