The many illustrations to the distilled stories found here - in modern language and child-safe - remind me of the work of the illustrator of my beloved Edward Eager books, N.M. Bodecker. For children who aren't ready or up to Elizabethan language, it can't be a bad idea to start them out with these expurgated versions. It's never too early for Shakespeare, especially when appealingly illustrated.

I love Shakespeare, but my students fear him. I will keep trying to get them interested.

The Shakespeare Stories: Henry V, A Midsummer Night's Dream, The Merchant of Venice, Hamlet by Andrew Matthews presents four of William Shakespeare’s famous plays in an easy-to-digest format for kids. Accompanied by Tony Ross’ illustrations, Matthews re-imagines these Shakespearean plays as short stories more akin to classic fairy tales. 

Matthews manages to take some of the most plot-heavy and confusing Shakespeare plays and break them down to their most basic elements. The language is easy to follow without lacking intellect or wit, and he stays true to Shakespeare’s concepts and characters. Illustrated short stories for kids are a no-brainer for getting children interested in William Shakespeare, and Matthews was smart to dive into the genre. He isn’t reinventing the wheel, but he is making the wheel accessible to a wide range of audiences.

I like how it has pictures, gives the cast and a quote from the original play. Then it tells the story and finishes up with an explanation of what just happened and some history of Shakespeare and the play.

I received this ARC from Printers Row Publishing Group and Silver Dolphin Books via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

*thank you to Printers Row Publishing Group and Netgalley for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review*

2 stars.
This was just ok. I thought that reading the childrens versions would be easier to read than the adults version anf therefore, id enjoy the story. But while I did end up enjoying 'A Midnight Summers Dream' the other two I did not. There were well written for children (and us adults who still dont understand the classic text), so for that im giving it an extra star.

It was a great feeling to read Shakespeare stories again........

On it's own, this book is a little light on details. More of an overview than complete stories. It would be best used as a companion to reading the original text. Shakespeare can be overwhelming for young readers. The language can be a barrier. Once one understands the basics of the plot, though, one can better appreciate the artistry and humor of the original writing. That's the real value of a book like this one.

This book is a perfect review for a young teen that has an interest in the great classics. It tells the story without the extra dialog and fancy language so you know what the story is about before you read the original Shakespeare. This is part of a series, 4 tales in each book. The stories are illustrated and they also try to explain how Shakespeare came up with the idea for each particular story.

A collection of four of Shakespeare's plays (Henry V, A Midsummer Night's Dream, The Merchant of Venice and Hamlet) rewritten in simpler language to make them a first introduction to the Bard. Although the modern language lacks the rhythm of the originals, the way they have been written and beautifully illustrated by Tony Ross is ideal for children just entering Key Stage 2 (aged 7 to 9). The patriotism of Henry V has now shifted A Midummer Night's Dream from it's place as my daughter's favourite Shakespeare play.

Great compilation of four of Shakespeare's plays for elementary aged children. I do think more illustrations would hold the kid's attention because my nephew had trouble sitting still when I tried them with him. I do love how the author has the history of the Author and the Theater at the beginning of the book. It helps indulge history buffs or children just learning they are falling in love with history or literary classics. I however do not recommend this book for middle/high school age or adults. There is much left out or generalized and that does not do justice to Shakespeare or his works. Overall 3/5 stars. I like it for children myself (please add more illustrations!) but not for preteen,teen or adult.

Andrew Matthews’ The Shakespeare Stories: Henry V, a Midsummer Night’s Dream, the Merchant of Venice, Hamlet presents four of William Shakespeare’s famous plays in an easy-to-digest format for kids. Accompanied by Tony Ross’ illustrations, Matthews re-imagines these Shakespearean plays as short stories more akin to classic fairy tales.

Each story is followed by a brief expository essay which breaks down the themes explored and how Shakespeare used them. It’s an effective means of exploring plot, character, and historical context, especially since Matthews begins the book with a brief lesson on Shakespeare’s life.

The Shakespeare Stories is a fun, quick read that will hold the attention of any kid who likes interesting stories about bizarre people. It’s also wildly entertaining for adults, especially if you’ve read any of the plays included in the collection.

Matthews’ retelling of Hamlet is particularly good, especially with the sullen lines of Ross’ illustrations. Although this play is classified as a tragedy, Hamlet is ultimately a moody teenager who’s throwing a fit. His behavior has sparked comics by Kate Beaton, satire posts on The Toast, and even a choose-your-own-adventure book (and game!) by Ryan North. Hamlet is the only story in The Shakespeare Stories written in first person, and it works really well.

Somehow, Matthews manages to take some of the most plot-heavy and confusing Shakespeare plays and break them down to their most basic elements. The language is easy to follow without lacking intellect or wit, and he stays true to Shakespeare’s concepts and characters. Illustrated short stories for kids are a no-brainer for getting children interested in William Shakespeare, and Matthews was smart to dive into the genre. He isn’t reinventing the wheel, but he is making the wheel accessible to a wide range of audiences.

Verdict
Buy it! Whether you’re a parent, a teacher, an older sibling, a babysitter, or just someone who likes Shakespeare, The Shakespeare Stories: Henry V, A Midsummer Night’s Dream, The Merchant of Venice, Hamlet is a really good time. Kids will love it. Adults will love it. It will keep everyone seriously entertained.

4 tales from Shakespeare written out for kids. I like how it has pictures, gives the cast and a quote from the original play. Then it tells the story and finishes up with an explanation of what just happened and some history of Shakespeare and the play.

I liked it. Henry V, A Midsummer Night's Dream, The Merchant of Venice and Hamlet. I have only read Hamlet before this. I enjoyed the little snippets and kind of wish they'd do this for adults and have the whole play there.

That being said, I think it falls short with the intended audience. It's supposed to be for kids, but my 11 year old didn't like it. He sat through Henry V, I think only because there was a battle going on. But he completely zoned out during A Midsummer Night's Dream and didn't want anything more to do with the book.

I finished it pretty fast. It might be OK for some kids, but the rough and rowdy boys, nope. I really thought he'd like it, he loves fantasy and some classics.

I wish I had this book when I studied Shakespeare in college. It makes the stories and words easier to understand and enjoy. All three of the stories or plays were told in an interesting way that also helped with understanding of this classic literature. I will suggesting this book to anyone interested in Shakespeare whether for fun or study. It is interesting, helpful and worth reading.
Well done!

A great version of some of Shakespeare’s best works for younger readers. I never felt bored or questioned the meaning behind the dialogue.