Tab Article

Ratings: ★★★★★ (4.8/5)
Genre: Children's Poetry, Classics, Literature, Education, Non-fiction

Book Review:
The ''Poetry for Young People'' series has a sterling reputation for making great poets accessible, and its volume on William Shakespeare is arguably one of its finest achievements. This book performs the near-magical task of bridging the 400-year gap between the Bard and today's young readers.

The selection is impeccable, featuring iconic excerpts from the plays and the sonnets that touch on universal themes—love (''Shall I compare thee to a summer's day?''), ambition, mischief, and mystery (''Double, double, toil, and trouble''). Each poem is presented with brief, clear annotations that explain archaic words and phrases without overwhelming the reader, and with contextual notes that bring the verses to life.

The true star, alongside Shakespeare's words, might be Glenn Harrington's breathtaking illustrations. They are rich, dramatic, and evocative, capturing the mood and imagery of the poetry in a way that immediately draws children into the world of each piece. The luxurious feel of the book makes it a special gift.

This is not a replacement for the complete works, but it is the perfect gateway. It builds confidence and curiosity, assuring young readers that Shakespeare is not to be feared but to be enjoyed. It is an essential resource for parents, teachers, and librarians looking to cultivate a love of classic literature, and a beautiful book for any child's personal library. Highly recommended for ages 8 and up.