Shakespeare and Macbeth: The Story Behind the Play

by Stewart Ross, Kenneth Branagh (Foreword), Tony Karpinski (Illustrator)

Blending historical research and contemporary literary criticism, this fascinating look at one of Shakespeare's most famous plays explains how the playwright conceived and wrote Macbeth and brings to life a production of the play.

Genres: History, Shakespeare, Nonfiction

44 pages, Hardcover

First published September 1, 1994

About the author

Stewart Ross has written more than 300 titles, fiction and non-fiction, for children and adults. Many are about (or inspired by) history. He lives near Canterbury, England.

Reviews

[Megan · Rating 4 out of 5]

I stumbled upon this book while shopping at the local thrift store, and I'm really glad I decided to buy it. The story follows Shakespeare as he undertakes writing and staging a production of his play, "Macbeth". From the early rough drafts, to rehearsals with the King's Men, costumes, complications and an eventual performance for the King himself, this book will help children (as well as adults) appreciate and understand Shakespeare better. The beautiful illustrations are very reminiscent of the age, and the book also includes a brief synopsis of "Macbeth" itself. Being a big Shakespeare enthusiast, I also really liked the foreward written by veteran Shakespeare actor Kenneth Branagh. A great introduction to William Shakespeare!

[Nick · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great introduction to the play for young readers.

[Amy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Really enjoyed this overview of the theatre/acting troupes of the time period as well as the tie in with the specific play Macbeth.

[Lilac Mohr · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book not only does a great job retelling the story of Macbeth, but it also gives a nice "behind-the-scenes" look at the challenges Shakespeare faced, the Globe theater, King James, and the time period.

[Congetta · Rating 5 out of 5]

We enjoyed learning more about Shakespeare, the time he lived and hearing how he researched and wrote the play Macbeth. It was interesting to hear what was factual and what Shakespeare did to make the story more riveting as a play and entertainment.

[Elaine Cougler · Rating 3 out of 5]

Shakespeare and Macbeth by Stewart Ross is an adult picture book interpolating events and people's lives in Shakespeare's day, particularly around the Macbeth play-writing period. Light. A fast read.