Shakespeare’s Tales: The Merchant of Venice

by Samantha Newman

Here is another entry in this publisher’s series of Shakespeare plays for young readers. Each is written in prose form and, while they simplify the story, all of the important details are there in the illustrated text.

The Merchant of Venice was one of the first Shakespeare plays that I read. It is one that may require some conversation between the reader and an adult, especially because of the blatant antisemitism. That does not mean that it is not a worthwhile read but just that some discussion is merited.

Kids may well be intrigued by the caskets (more like treasure chests). What is in each? Along the way they will get to know a well known Shakespearean character, Portia.

Recommended for home and school libraries as a good way to introduce kids to the bard.

Many thanks to NetGalley and Arcturus Publishing for this title. All opinions are my own.

Pub date: 01 July 2022