Shakespeare's Storybook with Audio CD

Here is a marvelous collection of stories that inspired Shakespeare, with two full-length CDs... Shakespeare's Storybook, Folk Tales that Inspired the Bard by Patrick Ryan and James Mayhew

Did you know that Shakespeare took inspiration for many of his plays from folk tales, ballads and fairy tales? You may be surprised to learn that Shakespeare drew on traditional tales from India, Greece, and Persia to create his well-loved Romeo and Juliet; that there were common threads between the traditional story of "Snow White" and As You Like It; and that the writing of The Merchant of Venice may have been influenced by the true story of The Earl of Essex and his plot to poison Queen Elizabeth I.

Professional storyteller Patrick Ryan has brought together the stories that are at the heart of seven of Shakespeare's masterpieces, introducing each with fascinating information about its history and offering insights into the local traditions and political issues that influenced Shakespeare's work. James Mayhew's rich and detailed drawings add to the color and drama of these timeless tales, in which chance, fortune and a touch of magic intertwine to mold lives and shape destinies.

Stories included are:

• The Devil's Bet (The Taming of the Shrew)
• The Hill of Roses (Romeo and Juliet)
• A Bargain is a Bargain (The Merchant of Venice)
• Snowdrop (As You Like It)
• Ashboy (Hamlet)
• Cap-O-Rushes (King Lear)
• The Flower Princess (The Winter's Tale)

Book Details:

• Number of Pages: 80
• Book Size: 8-1/2" x 10-1/2"
• Book Type: Paperback with 2 full-length Audio CDs
• Recommended Ages: 4-8
• ISBN: 1905236867
• ISBN: 9781905236862
• Published in 2006

Why We Love It

This book is filled with adventure, magic, and love! The audio CDs are truly wonderful. This book helps us appreciate the power of story in our lives and is a great introduction to Shakespeare for children. It might inspire your child to become a story writer.