Romeo and Juliet

I received two books called "Sixty-Minute Shakespeare." The first book was "Romeo and Juliet." The second was "Hamlet." I slowly sank into my chair and had flash backs of being in school and trying so hard to understand the many twists, turns and language of Shakespeare. As I began to read "Romeo and Juliet," much to my surprise I actually understood what was being said. The author added footnotes and did some editing that made it easy to read. Then I read "Hamlet" and again understood what was being said. I began to glimpse the wonder that is hidden within the words. For the first time in my life I truly understood what Shakespeare had wrote. I loved both plays and was somewhat shocked that I did. I finally realized why he was considered brilliant, and so well known around the world. I really think these books, which are a part of a six book series, should be read by young people first, before they enter into the world of Shakespeare. The author has done a fantastic job of editing the books to shorter versions, than the original works. Even though the books are smaller, they in no way, take away from the story line of the larger books. All I can say is thank you Cass Foster. A window that I had closed, is now opened. All because Cass Foster created "Sixty Minute Shakespeare. Five star rating for both books. Sandra Heptinstall Whispering Winds Book Reviews.

Reviewed By: Kelly Crespin, Eclectic Homeschool Online Romeo and Juliet is part of the Sixty-Minute Shakespeare series published by Five Star Publications. This series offers a way for many teenagers and adults to read and/or study Shakespeare without having to spend the time required to read an entire play. The author has taken the full works of Shakespeare and edited them into readable and enjoyable condensed versions of the original work. This would be a wonderful choice for introducing Shakespeare. The paperback book is only 73 pages in length, yet contains all acts of the play through Act V, Scene 3. To make things easier, at the bottom of each page are small footnotes defining words the reader might not know. For example, one page gives these definitions: Fair and honest = proper Mark = Target Tuckle-bed = bed on casters A quote from the back jacket sums up the true spirit of the book: "While the language is condensed, the integrity of Shakespeare's writings is kept intact so students of the Bard can experience the thrill of the story as well as the beauty of the verse and prose."

Dear Five Star:I was a frustrated director until I met "The Sixty-Minute Shakespeare." Here was everything I needed: the plot of Romeo and Juliet cut down to a manageable size, production suggestions, blocking notes, set of sound requirements, property lists, detailed stage directions and even the definitions of some of Shakespeare's more obscure words and phrases. I never would have attempted directing a group of homeschoolers, ages 7-14, a Shakespearean production without this marvelous book. And I would have deprived them of an extremely rewarding experience: they worked very hard and the production was highly praised by the community. Not only that, but I am certain that most harbor a distinct affection for the works of Mr. Shakespeare. What more could a homeschool mother and Shakespearian enthusiast desire? Thank you Five Star Publications for providing my children with a never-to-be-forgotten educational memory that was a whole lot of fun!Sincerely, Susan Zelie Homeschool Educator