William Shakespeare’s: Romeo and Juliet (Shakespeare Retellings, #4) : Book Review

"William Shakespeare's" by Bruce Coville is a captivating children's book that effortlessly combines history, magic, and the timeless works of Shakespeare. This delightful read follows the adventures of Kevin, a young boy who travels back in time to meet the legendary playwright himself. With his engaging writing style, Coville brings Shakespeare's world to life, allowing readers of all ages to experience the wonders and challenges of Elizabethan England.

What sets "William Shakespeare's" apart is Coville's ability to seamlessly incorporate historical facts and details into the narrative. His extensive research shines through, providing valuable insights into Shakespeare's life and the Elizabethan era. The accuracy of the setting and characters adds an educational element to the story, making it both entertaining and informative.

The characters in "William Shakespeare's" are well-developed and relatable, particularly Kevin, the readers' guide through this whirlwind adventure. Kevin's love for Shakespeare's works and his curiosity about the man himself make him a likeable protagonist. As he embarks on his journey, Kevin learns important life lessons and discovers the true magic of Shakespeare's words, leaving a lasting impact on both him and the readers.

An enticing aspect of this book is Coville's incorporation of Shakespearean plays within the narrative. By introducing famous scenes and lines from plays like "Romeo and Juliet" and "Macbeth," Coville makes these works accessible to young readers while staying true to their original essence. This adds depth and richness to the story, providing a taste of Shakespeare's genius.

Overall, "William Shakespeare's" is a delightful and educational read that intertwines history, magic, and the power of literature. Through Coville's storytelling and meticulous research, readers are transported back in time to Elizabethan England. Whether you're a Shakespeare enthusiast or simply looking for an engaging adventure, this book is sure to captivate and inspire.

What are readers saying?

"William Shakespeare's" by Bruce Coville has received a varied response from readers. Overall, the book has received a moderate rating, but opinions differ greatly among readers. Here is a summary of the reviews for this book:

1. Positive Reviews: Many readers appreciated Coville's ability to retell Shakespearean plays in an engaging and accessible manner, particularly for young readers. They admired the author's creativity and found the stories entertaining adaptations of the original works. Some readers also praised the inclusion of background information about Shakespeare and his plays, which enhanced their understanding and enjoyment.

2. Negative Reviews: However, there were some reviewers who expressed disappointment with the book. They felt that Coville's retellings lacked depth and failed to capture the complexity of Shakespeare's works. These readers found the adaptations to be overly simplified, missing the poetic language that defines Shakespeare's writing. The absence of rhyme and meter in the retellings was also a point of criticism for some.

3. Engaging for Young Readers: Many reviewers mentioned that the book is particularly suitable for young readers who are new to Shakespeare. They believe that Coville's adaptations can serve as a good introduction to the plays, helping children grasp the basic plots and characters. Some readers appreciated the inclusion of illustrations, which further enhanced the book's appeal to younger audiences.

4. Educational Value: Several reviewers highlighted the educational value of "William Shakespeare's." They appreciated the additional information provided about Shakespeare's life, the historical context of the plays, and the explanations of certain words or phrases. These readers felt that the book could be a valuable resource for students studying Shakespeare or those looking to expand their knowledge of his works.

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