TALES FROM SHAKESPEARE - A Deep Dive Review

by CHARLES (Author) MARY LAMB (Author)

Updated at: 21/01/2025

Charles and Mary Lamb's "Tales from Shakespeare" offers a delightful gateway to the world of William Shakespeare. This beloved adaptation transforms the Bard's intricate plays into captivating stories perfectly suited for younger readers. Through clear prose and gentle humor, the Lambs retell the major tragedies and comedies, preserving the essence of Shakespeare's iconic characters and compelling plots. Instead of daunting verse, readers encounter accessible narratives, making the timeless themes and rich language of Elizabethan drama engaging and understandable. This charming collection is an ideal introduction to Shakespeare, sparking a lifelong appreciation for his genius.

4.3 / 534 ratings

Review TALES FROM SHAKESPEARE

Oh, "Tales from Shakespeare" by Charles and Mary Lamb – what a delightful book! It's one of those rare gems that truly lives up to the hype. As someone who's always been intimidated by Shakespeare's dense language and complex plots, I found this adaptation to be an absolute revelation. The Lambs have masterfully distilled the essence of Shakespeare's major plays into engaging narratives that are perfectly accessible to younger readers, yet still retain the magic and heart of the originals.

Imagine dipping your toes into the vast ocean of Shakespeare without feeling overwhelmed by the tide. That's exactly what this book offers. Each tale is a perfectly crafted miniature, capturing the core themes and memorable characters with a charming simplicity. The language is clear, the pacing is brisk, and the whimsy is delightful, making even the most dramatic scenes feel approachable and exciting. It’s not a watered-down version; it’s a skillful retelling that focuses on the captivating stories at the heart of each play, leaving you wanting to explore the original works further.

I particularly appreciated the way the Lambs manage to preserve the spirit of Shakespeare's dialogue, even if the language itself is simplified. You still get a taste of the Bard's lyrical genius, his wit, and his profound understanding of human nature. This isn't just a retelling for children; adults can also deeply appreciate the cleverness and readability of the work. It's a fantastic introduction to Shakespeare, making him relatable and intriguing for a generation that might otherwise find him daunting.

Many reviews mention the small print in some editions. While I’ve experienced that myself, the story is so engaging that I found it easy to overlook. Ultimately, this minor issue doesn't detract from the book's immense value. Some editions may have errors, as several reviews highlight, so checking the publisher and reviews before purchasing is wise.

I’ve also seen discussions about using this book in conjunction with other resources, like Simon Palfrey's "Doing Shakespeare" or Lisa Hopkins' "Beginning Shakespeare." This highlights the incredible versatility of "Tales from Shakespeare." It acts as a springboard, igniting a passion for Shakespeare that can then be nurtured through more in-depth study. The fact that it's a gateway to further exploration rather than a standalone experience speaks volumes about its quality.

Ultimately, "Tales from Shakespeare" is more than just a children's book; it's a testament to the power of storytelling. It's a book that inspires curiosity, sparks imagination, and leaves you with a deeper appreciation for one of the greatest writers in the English language. If you're looking for a way to introduce yourself or your children to the world of Shakespeare without the intimidation factor, look no further. This is the perfect place to begin.