Romeo and Juliet

Shakespeare's tragic lovers receive star treatment in this spellbinding graphic-novel production. ... As thrilling and riveting as any staging. Kirkus Reviews (starred review) Cleaving to Shakespeare's words and his dramatic arc, Hinds creates another splendid graphic novel, tracing each scene in taut, coherent, and expertly deployed dialogue. Hinds's characters, in period array modified by a few more contemporary touches, are poignantly specific yet as universal as this tragic tale of young love demands. ... . Expertly pacing the drama with varied frames, often with sharp, action-propelling angles, Hinds explicates and amplifies Shakespeare's story on every page, including wordless fight scenes that highlight pivotal details. ... From swirling action to subtly delineated emotion, he delivers the play's essence and beauty, its glorious language, furious conflict, yearning love, and wrenching tragedy. This is not only a wonderfully accessible introduction to a full text or (better yet) theatrical production; it's a visual delight for anyone. The Horn Book (starred review) This graphic retelling of Shakespeare's play is delightfully modernized. Library Media Connection (highly recommended) The Shakespearean language is abridged but not adapted into contemporary English; footnotes explain words that could be confusing to young audiences. The use of lines and colorful watercolors is striking, especially when illustrating action such as dancing and sword fights. School Library Journal [A] striking rendition of the play. ... With its sumptuous colors and fealty to the original text, this sophisticated "comic" would suit any strong reader over the age of 12. The Wall Street Journal The text is skillfully edited, and the panels easy to follow, especially as the warring families' costumes are color-coded. The effect is that of a good stage production: Shakespeare's language speaks clearly to modern ears. Newsday