"In exceptionally fresh and vivid terms, the author plies readers with abundant, accurate information on the playwright, his theater, and the plays, looking closely at A MIDSUMMER NIGHT'S DREAM, ROMEO AND JULIET, MACBETH, KING LEAR, and THE TEMPEST. . . . This volume justly serves its spectacular subject." -- SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL (starred review)

"Even readers whose previous experience with Shakespeare has been rounded with sleep will be persuaded by this robust introduction to give it another try." -- BOOKLIST (starred review)

Back matter includes a time line, an index, and a bibliography.