Romeo and Juliet (The New Folger Library Shakespeare) - Hardcover

Adults looking for a dramatically abridged version of Shakespeare's tragic love story with some lovely backdrops of Verona may find something to savor in Early's (Sleeping Beauty; William Tell) picture-book rendition. She gives a nod to several medieval fresco artists and to such Renaissance painters as Michelangelo and Botticelli, whose ornate patterns and borders may well be the inspiration for her paintings. A sharp attention to detailA including the exquisite geometric designs of palace floors, elaborate period dress, authentic Verona streetscapes and the delicate strands of Juliet's golden tressesAdistinguishes Early's art, but the lovers' faces are mask-like, and even the most dramatic of scenes appear to be static. Early's narrative paraphrases the action of this drama while showcasing some of the most legendary lines from the Bard's quill. But these clunky juxtapositions detract from Shakespeare's own words, as in this example: "Lord Capulet replied that Juliet was too young [to marry]. Why not wait a little longer? 'Let two more summers wither in their pride ere we may think her ripe to be a bride,' he entreated." Children will be better off waiting for the originalAand adults better off returning to it. All ages.
Copyright 1998 Reed Business Information, Inc.

Grade 4-8AWith what is becoming a signature technique, Early once again adapts a painting style from the relevant era for her highly stylized gilded illustrations. Set in Verona of the period, this Romeo and Juliet reflects Italian Renaissance painting within formal borders that also frame the opposing text pages. Each meticulous painting places the characters in a would-be stage setAmost dominated by the arches of the solid architecture but softened a bit by natural touches such as birds, plant life, or, in the Capulet's house, Juliet's puppy. The challenge of more individualistic faces has led, in many cases, to rather flat-planed looks. Neither the story content nor the mature writing style indicate a work for young children. This is a fully developed tale following the line of the original work and can be enjoyed on its own as well as being used, as is the inevitable fate of such books, as preparation for Shakespeare's play. The elegant illustrations and smooth retelling make this a good addition to the growing body of adapted Shakespeare stories.ASally Margolis, Barton Public Library, VT
Copyright 1998 Reed Business Information, Inc.