Reviews: (by author)

Blackwood, Gary. The Shakespeare Stealer. New York: Puffin Books, 1998. $5.99. ISBN 0 14 130595 9.

Widge is not your typical orphan apprentice growing up in Renaissance England. For one thing, he is trained in reading and writing English, Latin, and Charactery, a form of cryptic short-hand writing invented by Widge's first master. Widge's talent at Charactery, which allows the writer to copy down a dialogue as fast as it's spoken, causes him to be bought by the powerful Mr. Bass and his fierce servant Falconer. Afraid of Falconer's wrath, Widge obeys Mr. Bass' sole order: copy Shakespeare's new play The Tragedy of Hamlet in Charactery, so that Mr. Bass can sell it illegally to other performing troupes. Falconer drags Widge to London to see, and copy, the play. Widge gets separated from Falconer, however, and soon finds himself as an apprentice to Lord Chamberlain's Company- Shakespeare's own acting troupe! As his love for the theatre and his new friends grows, Widge must decide between loyalty to the troupe and fear of Falconer's wrath. As he battles loyalties, Widge learns how to defend himself, make friends, and find self-confidence-- all of which will prepare him for the final confrontation, in which secret identities are revealed and Widge must fight for his very life.

This book stays very true to the hardships of England in the 1600s. It portrays the trials of acting and apprenticeship in life-like detail, drawing the reader into a living history lesson. The character of Widge is easy to relate to as he matures into a free man. Several supporting characters are developed enough to be interesting to the average reader as well. There are enough elements of fighting, intrigue, and wit blended with history to make this a fun read for adolescents. Topics such as the law against female actors in England are broached via a side plot-line involving one of Widge's closest friends, portraying a positive image for female readers. This book works well as a complementary text to Shakespearean plays and the history of Renaissance England.

Recommended Reading Level: Age 13 and up

Reviewed by Elizabeth Wade

Blackwood, Gary. Shakespeare's Scribe. New York: Dutton Children's Books, 2000. $15.99. ISBN 0525464441.

In the action-filled sequel to The Shakespeare Stealer, the orphan Widge stays on with the Lord Chamberlain's Men, performing Shakespeare's newest plays. But the year is 1602, and the Bubonic Plague has crippled London. Because of the belief that plague is spread through unclean air, the Queen has banned all public gatherings, including the theatre. Lord Chamberlain's Men reduce their numbers and become a touring troupe in hopes of earning profits. As they travel, Widge questions his abilities as an actor and his family past. The trip seems to hold more answers than anticipated, as Widge encounters a man claiming to be his Father- and the Black Death hits close to home. Old faces and new unite in this stunning adventure through the English countryside. Mystery and action surround the accurate portrayal of the brutality of life for Renaissance actors, especially traveling ones. Adolescents will enjoy this book on many levels. It contains enough excitement and plot twists to appeal to a wide variety of minds, and it also delves into the philosophical questions of personal identity and the definition of mercy. Widge's struggles are as pertinent to young adults as they are to adults of every age. His character is a strong role model who learns when to stand up for oneself, how to define one's actions, and the importance of family.

Recommended Reading Level: Age 14 and up

Reviewed by Elizabeth Wade

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