Romeo and Juliet for kids

Gr 1-4-Once again, Burdett has produced a jaunty version of a Shakespeare work that grew from an intensive project with her elementary school students. The central text, composed of labored, uneven couplets, is the least appealing part of the book. Naive drawings, done by the students, are colored with clear, bright markers. Lively written additions from the second and third graders, such as Juliet's diary entries or reports from Verona citizens in response to the feud, show how well immersion in the play can lead to a good understanding by younger children. While readers elsewhere might enjoy a look at their contemporaries' drawings, it seems unlikely that they would derive even a fraction of the understanding of the play and its importance that Burdett's students got from the project. It wouldn't hurt, though, for teachers seeking inspiration to take a look at what can be achieved with enthusiasm and a strong belief in your source.-Sally Margolis, Barton Public Library, VT (c) Copyright 2010. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.

Old Capulet greeted them in the great hall, "Welcome, my friends, one and all! Join the party!" he said with a grin, "Come musicians, let the mirth begin." In a matter of moments the room was aglow, The ladies and gentlemen danced to and fro. But Romeo stood by himself at the side Until, in an instant, his eyes opened wide. He gazed on a vision he'd never forget. Across the room was the fair Juliet. Now Rosaline's beauty lost its glow, "What lady's that?" asked Romeo. "Oh, she doth teach the torches to burn bright, For I ne'er saw true beauty till this night!" Excerpted from Romeo and Juliet for Kids by Lois Burdett All rights reserved by the original copyright owners. Excerpts are provided for display purposes only and may not be reproduced, reprinted or distributed without the written permission of the publisher.