Shakespeare

April 1, 2016

In this improbably short book, Edmondson manages to introduce readers to all of the most pertinent information about Shakespeare's life, style, and works, as well as his passionate take on how to and why one should encounter Shakespeare's works in the modern world. In clear, witty prose, Edmondson engages with nearly all of Shakespeare's plays and poems, bringing many of them vividly to life. He is particularly strong in his take on the sometimes-neglected poems-the sonnets, yes, but also "The Rape of Lucrece" and "Venus and Adonis," teasing readers with the surprising eroticism of those narrative poems. The strength of this work comes from Edmondson's crystal clear focus on what he is and is not trying to accomplish. He never allows himself to get sidetracked in centuries-old debates and academic jargon-though savvy readers might have wished for more of his takes on Shakespearean controversies considering the deft power with which he dispatches the famous anti-Stratfordian theories (in which some doubt William Shakespeare of Stratford-upon-Avon's authorship) with a simple thrown-off sentence or two. Of particular interest for newcomers is the chapter "Encountering Shakespeare," in which Edmondson lays out various methods for coming to understand and love the playwright, including tips on going to performances and an absolutely fantastic primer on reading the sonnets aloud. VERDICT A practically perfect introduction to Shakespeare for teens and anyone else newly interested in the Bard.-Mark Flowers, Ro Vista Library, CA

Copyright 2016 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

September 1, 2015

Edmondson (head of research & knowledge, the Shakespeare Birthplace Trust; coeditor, Shakespeare Beyond Doubt) here offers a succinct and enlightening overview of William Shakespeare's life (1564-1616) and works as part of this series of illustrated introductions to important topics. Although Edmondson's prose can be downright breezy and the text is peppered with striking visuals by Cognitive Media, this is no "For Dummies"-like treatment of the Bard. The slim volume is erudite, opinionated, and brimming with passion for its subject. Along with the expected close textual analysis, the author covers a dazzling array of topics, including Shakespeare's sources, collaborations, state censorship, anti-Stratfordians, textual multiplicity, and the Early Modern English stage. The chapter on appreciating Shakespeare in performance is a particular standout. VERDICT While this delightful book will appeal to newcomers seeking an accessible but authoritative take on Shakespeare's life and works, its charms will not be lost on those far more familiar with its subject.--William Walsh, Georgia State Univ. Libs., Atlanta

Copyright 2015 Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.