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Rosen, Michael. 2004. SHAKESPEARE'S ROMEO & JULIET. Ill. by Jane Ray. Cambridge, MA: Candlewick. ISBN 0763622583
This incredibly beautiful book introduces not only Shakespeare's play but Shakespeare's theater and times. The story is alternately
paraphrased in narration and quoted (in bold face) for particularly important or beautiful passages. This exchange, from the
party where Romeo and Juliet have just met, is typical: "By now, though, Romeo was thinking of kissing her mouth. Have
not saints lips, and holy palmers too? he asked. Ay, pilgrim, she said, lips that they must use in prayer.
But Romeo wasn't put off. O then, dear saint, let lips do what hands do, he begged." Sidebars include act and scene
numbers and definitions of difficult or archaic vocabulary.
This is meant for older readers: the sexual attraction of Romeo and Juliet is frankly presented. But the captivating illustrations
on half of every double page spread and the lyrical borders which offset the text are inviting to even reluctant readers,
and are as much of a jewel as the retelling. SHAKESPEARE'S ROMEO & JULIET has been extensively reviewed and unanimously acclaimed.
This excerpt from The VOICE OF YOUTH ADVOCATES review of Aug. 1, 2004, is typical: "The volume is a great choice for reading
aloud or private enjoyment. It would be a wonderful tool for introducing middle and younger junior high students to the study
of a Shakespearean play and motivating them to view a play or enact the parts."
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