What's So Special About Shakespeare?

An engaging, easy-to-use and informative biography of Shakespeare with humorous illustrations.

So what was it like to live in Shakespeare's time? What do we actually know about him? And how does someone become that famous? These are just a few of the questions addressed in this lively and accessible book on the life and works of William Shakespeare by award-winning author Michael Rosen. Ideal for browsing, the text is divided into clear sections and includes studies of four of Shakespeare's plays, intriguing facts and information about Shakespeare himself and the world at this time, accompanied by a useful timeline.

A revelation of just how good a teacher and critic Rosen is. Will serve as a model for those teaching Shakespeare at Key Stages 2 and 3. The Times Educational Supplement
A terrific idea, winningly executed by poet and wit Michael Rosen. Taking four of the bard’s plays ... he presents a lively canter through Shakespeare’s life and times, and in the lightest possible manner offers a persuasive argument for why Shakespeare still matters. Better than that, why he is a pleasure, not a chore The Glasgow Herald
A lively and accessible book. My Child
Stands out because it encourage children to wonder and questions why Shakespeare is still acted, read and quotes and why his work still shapes our language and literature today Books for Keeps, 10 best books to introduce children to William Shakespeare
An engaging, easy-to-use and informative biography of Shakespeare with humorous illustrations. The Bookseller
Find out what makes Shakespeare so special in this brilliant introduction to his work and world by the esteemed Michael Rosen. Angels & Urchins
This is a wonderful introduction to our most famous playwright. […] Inspiring. South Wales Evening Post
This smart series for young readers poses a good question, and in the hands of all-round literature-lover, Michael Rosen, the answer is both educational and entertaining. […] a rousing round-up of the Bard’s continuing significance. Nicely packaged with hilarious illustrations IBW Children's Book Guide, The Bookseller

Michael Rosen, MA, PhD, is one of the most popular contemporary poets and authors of books for children. He received the Eleanor Farjeon Award for services to children's literature in 1997, and served as Children's Laureate between 2007 and 2009. His books include the worldwide bestseller We're Going on a Bear Hunt, Shakespeare: His Work and His World, and the award-winning Michael Rosen's Sad Book. He lives in London.

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