NF

“If we can’t all be Shakespeares, it doesn’t make us less in the world; the understanding makes us more.”

“I want your children to be inspired by Shakespeare for the many years to come when they believe that they can do anything as long as they work hard enough at it”.

The above quotes are both from the epilogue, and they both fitting conclusions to an extraordinary book. Ludwig’s love of Shakespeare is evident and he makes us want to learn more and to develop a deeper understanding of Shakespeare’s works. I feel myself more knowledgeable in terms of Shakespeareana after having read it.

Personally, I adore Shakespeare.

You can read the rest of this review on my blog. ( )

Ken Ludwig's "How to Teach Your Children Shakespeare" is one part curriculum, one part reflection on the Bard's importance in English-language literature, and one part love letter to theatrical performance. Taken together these parts form a delightful guide to walking children through some of Shakespeare's most important passages and instilling a love for language and the stage. I look forward to using this book with my own kids.

N.B.: I received a free copy of this book from LibraryThing's Early Reviewer program. ( )

This book is fascinating. I would recommend it as a homeschool curriculum on Shakespeare or to anyone interested in learning/memorizing Shakespeare. The approach to memorization is one I've not seen before, but it worked! This book is sure to increase your enjoyment of Shakespeare, and perhaps poetry in general. ( )

Mr. Ludwig and I share a passion for Shakespeare and a belief that memorization matters. His choices of passages for children are idiosyncratic but not inappropriate. I found the text weighed down, however, with unnecessary fluff while remarkably light on the particulars of practical application. For those seeking an open-and-go approach, this is not it, but it does provide some delicious food for thought. ( )