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The Total Tragedy of a Girl Named Hamlet
Hamlet Kennedy just wants to be your average, happy, vanilla eighth grader. But with Shakespearean scholar parents who dress in Elizabethan regalia and generally go about in public as if it were the sixteenth century, that’s not terribly easy. It gets worse when they decide that Hamlet’s genius seven year-old sister will attend middle school with her— and even worse when the Shakespeare project is announced and her sister is named the new math tutor. By the time an in-class recitation reveals that our heroine is an extraordinary Shakespearean actress, Hamlet can no longer hide from the fact that she—like her family—is anything but average. In a novel every bit as funny as her debut, Erin Dionne has created another eighth grader whose situation is utterly unique—but whose foibles and farces will resound with every girl currently suffering through middle school.
304 pages, Hardcover
First published October 23, 2009
110 people are currently reading
2917 people want to read
About the author
Erin Dionne
22 books339 followersI write books for tweens, teens, and anyone who survived junior high.
Please note: I have changed my review policy. I'll no longer be using the star rating system--I'm an author, not a reviewer or editor, and I'd rather support other authors by not ranking their books. I write honest (brief) reviews for each book I read, so please look to those to find out what I loved.
Please note: I have changed my review policy. I'll no longer be using the star rating system--I'm an author, not a reviewer or editor, and I'd rather support other authors by not ranking their books. I write honest (brief) reviews for each book I read, so please look to those to find out what I loved.
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January 7, 2015
Summary of Novel
“The Total Tragedy of a Girl Named Hamlet”, by Erin Dionne is an amusing tale that not only captures some of the pitfalls of middle school- it conveys a very crucial and excellent moral lesson about fitting in in life and being true to one’s self. Hamlet Kennedy, the main character and antagonist in this story, is entering eighth grade, her last year of middle school. All she has ever wanted was to fit in and be a normal averaged girl in eighth grade, yet that will be extremely difficult considering the fact that her seven-year old sister, Desdemona, is joining her in Howard Hoffer Junior High. In addition, her parents, who are Shakespearean eccentrics, will constantly be visiting her to check how her younger sister is doing.
The reason why Desdemona, is joining Hamlet in middle school, is because she scored very high on her IQ test when she was only two years old. Also, she was supposed to go to college this year, yet “Chestnut College wouldn’t let her declare a major unless she took music and art classes.” (Dionne, 6) Knowing that she will be embarrassed in school and with her classmates, Hamlet agrees to take care of Desdemona while she accompanies her to her daily classes. As they walk from class to class, Hamlet constantly reminds Desdemona or Dezzie to act normal and not use any of the Shakespearean quotes she uses at home, so she wouldn’t make Hamlet stand out. Subsequently, in English class, Desdemona was told to read a part of Mid Summer Night’s Dream and when she did, the whole class looked at her in admiration and awe. She read that excerpt so beautifully and fluently, that it made it sound as if she practiced reading it for a month. Promptly, the teacher told her to play Puck in the upcoming play of A Mid Summer Night’s Dream and she accepted; yet her only worry was that she didn’t want her parents to know about this nor to get embroiled with the play.
On the other hand, ever since Hamlet knew Carter, her crush, she could not stop daydreaming about him. He was very handsome and charming, which made Hamlet wonder if he was the one who put origami pig letters in her locker. She can’t seem to put a finger on which that person was. Could it be Cater? (She hoped) or it might be KC, since everyone says he loves Hamlet but can’t express his feelings towards her. Meanwhile, in Desdemona’s homeroom, Saber and Mauri, the popular girls in school, have been getting closer to her, so they can manipulate her into helping them pass classes and get good grades. As time passes, Desdemona doesn’t figure out what they are doing to her, yet Hamlet always tries to make her understand. One day, while Mauri, Saber and Hamlet were arguing, the teacher sent them to the principle’s office and got them all into great chaos. Fortunately, Dezzie and Hamlet both said the truth, and ended up with no punishments. Finally, Desdemona realized that the girls were only using her to get good grades. Hence, she sought to take revenge, and mad a plan with Hamlet.
They concocted a very cunning plan, in which Desdemona would give Saber and Mauri fallacious answers in their homework and notes for their presentations so they can embarrass themselves in front of the whole middle school. Consequently, Saber and Mauri found out that Hamlet didn’t want her parents to know that they were studying Shakespeare, so they called them in and made Hamlet look so mortified since her mother wore Elizabethan era clothes and marched into school with a tambourine. Right after her Mid Summer Night’s Dream rehearsal, Hamlet fled away to the counselor’s room weeping. She told the counselor all the problems that she is facing and why they are making her feel agitated. Later on, Hamlet starts gaining her parents’ trust after they accused her of breaking the family globe, when it was really Desdemona and her friends. Her parents apologized to her, and from that day on she started to feel a little spark of comfort between her and her parents.
Meanwhile, Hamlet’s love life was getting very complicated; she heard people say Ty, her best friend, was in love with her while others said that KC loved her. Her head was in complete havoc, and then she decided to confront Ty and tell him that she can’t fall in love of him because he is like a brother to her. Ty was speechless; he didn’t know what she was talking about. Finally, they both found out that there was a misinterpretation about who loves whom. Ultimately, KC admitted that he was the one who dropped the origami pig letters in her locker and that he loved her.
It was time for the play and for the first time in her life, Hamlet felt confident and ready. First, Saber and Mauri had to talk about the Bard, and when they did all the facts they said were wrong, because those were the facts from the notes that Desdemona gave them earlier. Hamlet played her role in the play and did a fantastic job; she did not miss any lines. Mr. and Mrs. Kennedy were gratified by Hamlet’s actions. Thus, one can see that the theme in this peculiar story was “ Always be true to who you are, even if you don’t fit in.” It played a major role in defining the main characters personality and struggle in life.
Theme
In this particular story, the theme, “Always be true to who you are, even if you don’t fit in,” played a pivotal role since it conveyed a very crucial message to the audience, a message that easily applies to teens today. Hamlet wants to fit in in her community, and she believes that if she’s a normal averaged girl she can “ fly under the radar” (Dionne, 21) for the rest of her school year. However, as the main character grows and develops, Hamlet gets know that she needs to accept herself for who she is and not care what the people around her think. First, when Desdemona joins Hamlet in eighth grade, the audience visualizes Hamlet as an insecure girl since she is frightened about what her classmates might think of her. Through the author’s direct characterization, Erin Dionne describes Hamlet, while telling her sister what to do and what to say in certain times and places at her high school: “No curtsy this time- I’d warned Dezzie on our walk to class” (Dionne, 16). Subsequently, the theme perfectly complements Hamlet’s situation as a middle school teenager, because at first she doesn’t accept the fact that her parents come dressed with cloaks and march with tambourines to school because she thinks that her friends will make fun of her and look at her in a different manner. Moreover, by the end of this novel, there is a coming of age that is portrayed by the author. Hamlet takes revenge on the popular girls that were using her sister and she ended up being confident and sanguine on stage while performing her Shakespearean play. This was shown at the end when Hamlet said, “But also unique, creative, and distinct. Maybe being anything but average wasn’t a total tragedy after all.” (Dionne, 285) All in all, one can see that self-acceptance played a major role in this novel, since it has changed the protagonist’s character and developed the turning point and climax of the story.
Recommendation
After reading “The Total Tragedy of a Girl Named Hamlet”, by Erin Dionne, I would recommend this novel mainly to teenagers that are precisely in eighth grade because, they might find a connection between their own lives and Hamlet’s. They might feel comfortable knowing that they are not the only ones facing certain obstacles, while going through a transitional period at this time of their lives. Also, I believe that this book is relatable to all middle school students, yet mostly for the students that are constantly motivated to learn more about history and learn new words. This is because; this novel requires the reader to have prior knowledge about Shakespeare in order to understand parts of this book’s content. For instance Kennedy’s parents always say “Huzzah” (Dionne, 290), which signifies cheers or hurray, in Shakespearean. Next, I would endorse this novel to those who are self-motivated to always have the determination to look up words in the dictionary, since the author uses a variety of high-level vocabulary. Finally, I would advise this novel to the middle school students that enjoy reading about love stories since they would be able to relate to some of Hamlet’s love stories. As one can see, the novel “The Total Tragedy of a Girl Named Hamlet”, by Erin Dionne is considered a very entertaining and intriguing novel. It gives the audience a whole new perspective to see life and relate to multiple characters in the book’s pool of well-rounded and dynamic characters.
“The Total Tragedy of a Girl Named Hamlet”, by Erin Dionne is an amusing tale that not only captures some of the pitfalls of middle school- it conveys a very crucial and excellent moral lesson about fitting in in life and being true to one’s self. Hamlet Kennedy, the main character and antagonist in this story, is entering eighth grade, her last year of middle school. All she has ever wanted was to fit in and be a normal averaged girl in eighth grade, yet that will be extremely difficult considering the fact that her seven-year old sister, Desdemona, is joining her in Howard Hoffer Junior High. In addition, her parents, who are Shakespearean eccentrics, will constantly be visiting her to check how her younger sister is doing.
The reason why Desdemona, is joining Hamlet in middle school, is because she scored very high on her IQ test when she was only two years old. Also, she was supposed to go to college this year, yet “Chestnut College wouldn’t let her declare a major unless she took music and art classes.” (Dionne, 6) Knowing that she will be embarrassed in school and with her classmates, Hamlet agrees to take care of Desdemona while she accompanies her to her daily classes. As they walk from class to class, Hamlet constantly reminds Desdemona or Dezzie to act normal and not use any of the Shakespearean quotes she uses at home, so she wouldn’t make Hamlet stand out. Subsequently, in English class, Desdemona was told to read a part of Mid Summer Night’s Dream and when she did, the whole class looked at her in admiration and awe. She read that excerpt so beautifully and fluently, that it made it sound as if she practiced reading it for a month. Promptly, the teacher told her to play Puck in the upcoming play of A Mid Summer Night’s Dream and she accepted; yet her only worry was that she didn’t want her parents to know about this nor to get embroiled with the play.
On the other hand, ever since Hamlet knew Carter, her crush, she could not stop daydreaming about him. He was very handsome and charming, which made Hamlet wonder if he was the one who put origami pig letters in her locker. She can’t seem to put a finger on which that person was. Could it be Cater? (She hoped) or it might be KC, since everyone says he loves Hamlet but can’t express his feelings towards her. Meanwhile, in Desdemona’s homeroom, Saber and Mauri, the popular girls in school, have been getting closer to her, so they can manipulate her into helping them pass classes and get good grades. As time passes, Desdemona doesn’t figure out what they are doing to her, yet Hamlet always tries to make her understand. One day, while Mauri, Saber and Hamlet were arguing, the teacher sent them to the principle’s office and got them all into great chaos. Fortunately, Dezzie and Hamlet both said the truth, and ended up with no punishments. Finally, Desdemona realized that the girls were only using her to get good grades. Hence, she sought to take revenge, and mad a plan with Hamlet.
They concocted a very cunning plan, in which Desdemona would give Saber and Mauri fallacious answers in their homework and notes for their presentations so they can embarrass themselves in front of the whole middle school. Consequently, Saber and Mauri found out that Hamlet didn’t want her parents to know that they were studying Shakespeare, so they called them in and made Hamlet look so mortified since her mother wore Elizabethan era clothes and marched into school with a tambourine. Right after her Mid Summer Night’s Dream rehearsal, Hamlet fled away to the counselor’s room weeping. She told the counselor all the problems that she is facing and why they are making her feel agitated. Later on, Hamlet starts gaining her parents’ trust after they accused her of breaking the family globe, when it was really Desdemona and her friends. Her parents apologized to her, and from that day on she started to feel a little spark of comfort between her and her parents.
Meanwhile, Hamlet’s love life was getting very complicated; she heard people say Ty, her best friend, was in love with her while others said that KC loved her. Her head was in complete havoc, and then she decided to confront Ty and tell him that she can’t fall in love of him because he is like a brother to her. Ty was speechless; he didn’t know what she was talking about. Finally, they both found out that there was a misinterpretation about who loves whom. Ultimately, KC admitted that he was the one who dropped the origami pig letters in her locker and that he loved her.
It was time for the play and for the first time in her life, Hamlet felt confident and ready. First, Saber and Mauri had to talk about the Bard, and when they did all the facts they said were wrong, because those were the facts from the notes that Desdemona gave them earlier. Hamlet played her role in the play and did a fantastic job; she did not miss any lines. Mr. and Mrs. Kennedy were gratified by Hamlet’s actions. Thus, one can see that the theme in this peculiar story was “ Always be true to who you are, even if you don’t fit in.” It played a major role in defining the main characters personality and struggle in life.
Theme
In this particular story, the theme, “Always be true to who you are, even if you don’t fit in,” played a pivotal role since it conveyed a very crucial message to the audience, a message that easily applies to teens today. Hamlet wants to fit in in her community, and she believes that if she’s a normal averaged girl she can “ fly under the radar” (Dionne, 21) for the rest of her school year. However, as the main character grows and develops, Hamlet gets know that she needs to accept herself for who she is and not care what the people around her think. First, when Desdemona joins Hamlet in eighth grade, the audience visualizes Hamlet as an insecure girl since she is frightened about what her classmates might think of her. Through the author’s direct characterization, Erin Dionne describes Hamlet, while telling her sister what to do and what to say in certain times and places at her high school: “No curtsy this time- I’d warned Dezzie on our walk to class” (Dionne, 16). Subsequently, the theme perfectly complements Hamlet’s situation as a middle school teenager, because at first she doesn’t accept the fact that her parents come dressed with cloaks and march with tambourines to school because she thinks that her friends will make fun of her and look at her in a different manner. Moreover, by the end of this novel, there is a coming of age that is portrayed by the author. Hamlet takes revenge on the popular girls that were using her sister and she ended up being confident and sanguine on stage while performing her Shakespearean play. This was shown at the end when Hamlet said, “But also unique, creative, and distinct. Maybe being anything but average wasn’t a total tragedy after all.” (Dionne, 285) All in all, one can see that self-acceptance played a major role in this novel, since it has changed the protagonist’s character and developed the turning point and climax of the story.
Recommendation
After reading “The Total Tragedy of a Girl Named Hamlet”, by Erin Dionne, I would recommend this novel mainly to teenagers that are precisely in eighth grade because, they might find a connection between their own lives and Hamlet’s. They might feel comfortable knowing that they are not the only ones facing certain obstacles, while going through a transitional period at this time of their lives. Also, I believe that this book is relatable to all middle school students, yet mostly for the students that are constantly motivated to learn more about history and learn new words. This is because; this novel requires the reader to have prior knowledge about Shakespeare in order to understand parts of this book’s content. For instance Kennedy’s parents always say “Huzzah” (Dionne, 290), which signifies cheers or hurray, in Shakespearean. Next, I would endorse this novel to those who are self-motivated to always have the determination to look up words in the dictionary, since the author uses a variety of high-level vocabulary. Finally, I would advise this novel to the middle school students that enjoy reading about love stories since they would be able to relate to some of Hamlet’s love stories. As one can see, the novel “The Total Tragedy of a Girl Named Hamlet”, by Erin Dionne is considered a very entertaining and intriguing novel. It gives the audience a whole new perspective to see life and relate to multiple characters in the book’s pool of well-rounded and dynamic characters.
October 1, 2019
This was a pretty good interesting book, pretty simple and bland. I feel like I would have liked it a lot more if I had read it when I was in middle school or early high school not college lol. But if your those ages I highly recommend the book!
October 4, 2009
Erin Dionne’s done it again! Her first novel, MODELS DON’T EAT CHOCOLATE COOKIES, won praise and garnered some excellent reviews. The latest, THE TOTAL TRAGEDY OF A GIRL NAMED HAMLET, another mid-grade novel, is sure to have students talking (and reading!). Dionne’s sense of humor is woven throughout her tightly written plot, filled with funny situations that would give any student angst. In honor of the main character, appropriate quotes from Shakespeare’s play are sprinkled throughout the review.
"Something is rotten in the state of Denmark."
- William Shakespeare, “Hamlet”
Just how embarrassing can your parents be? In Hamlet’s case: very. Imagine your parents walking around dressed like they just teleported from Shakespeare’s England and saying things like, “Goodwill to you” and “Huzzah” in the halls at your school. More humiliating, imagine they named you, their little girl, after a guy in a Shakespearean tragedy. Hamlet’s life seems pretty rotten, right? But wait, there’s more…and it gets worse.
“To be, or not to be: that is the question”
- William Shakespeare, “Hamlet”
If you’ve ever had to follow in the shadow of high-achieving older siblings, then you will surely commiserate with Hamlet. She has a little sister, Dezzie, who’s a genius and is going to attend Hamlet’s middle school. Oh, the embarrassment. Although Hamlet reluctantly shines in drama, she is struggling in math. In the meantime, guess who becomes one of the math tutors?
Dionne does a fabulous job illustrating the perils of middle school, as Hamlet tries to juggle not wanting to stand out against the attention she’s receiving. The author also adeptly shows Dezzie’s forays into the tangled world of cliques. We are torn between rooting for normalcy for Hamlet and wondering why she doesn’t embrace her own gifts. It really is tough to be in eighth grade!
"This above all: to thine own self be true”
- William Shakespeare, “Hamlet”
As the novel progresses, Dionne manages to keep the pace and the humor moving forward. The mystery of the Globe, wondering whether or not she will see her talents, and hoping the family can learn to speak one another’s language keeps us turning the pages. In the end, we await discovery if Hamlet will be true to herself.
"A rhapsody of words."
- William Shakespeare, “Hamlet”
The Total Tragedy of a Girl Named Hamlet is well crafted and an enjoyable read. Erin Dionne is a skillful writer who has captured the life in a typical (but funny) middle school. Her use of voice and interspersed dramatic vignettes shows how carefully she crafts her work. This novel is perfect for a class set for reading together or literature circles, as it is a wholesome book that has themes of family, friendship, and discovering oneself. It would make a great gift for a mid-grade level reader. I highly recommend it! Coming in January 2010 from Dell Books for Young Readers, an imprint of Penguin Group, Inc. Preorder from a bookstore near you! Support independent booksellers – keep our neighborhood bookstores alive!
"Something is rotten in the state of Denmark."
- William Shakespeare, “Hamlet”
Just how embarrassing can your parents be? In Hamlet’s case: very. Imagine your parents walking around dressed like they just teleported from Shakespeare’s England and saying things like, “Goodwill to you” and “Huzzah” in the halls at your school. More humiliating, imagine they named you, their little girl, after a guy in a Shakespearean tragedy. Hamlet’s life seems pretty rotten, right? But wait, there’s more…and it gets worse.
“To be, or not to be: that is the question”
- William Shakespeare, “Hamlet”
If you’ve ever had to follow in the shadow of high-achieving older siblings, then you will surely commiserate with Hamlet. She has a little sister, Dezzie, who’s a genius and is going to attend Hamlet’s middle school. Oh, the embarrassment. Although Hamlet reluctantly shines in drama, she is struggling in math. In the meantime, guess who becomes one of the math tutors?
Dionne does a fabulous job illustrating the perils of middle school, as Hamlet tries to juggle not wanting to stand out against the attention she’s receiving. The author also adeptly shows Dezzie’s forays into the tangled world of cliques. We are torn between rooting for normalcy for Hamlet and wondering why she doesn’t embrace her own gifts. It really is tough to be in eighth grade!
"This above all: to thine own self be true”
- William Shakespeare, “Hamlet”
As the novel progresses, Dionne manages to keep the pace and the humor moving forward. The mystery of the Globe, wondering whether or not she will see her talents, and hoping the family can learn to speak one another’s language keeps us turning the pages. In the end, we await discovery if Hamlet will be true to herself.
"A rhapsody of words."
- William Shakespeare, “Hamlet”
The Total Tragedy of a Girl Named Hamlet is well crafted and an enjoyable read. Erin Dionne is a skillful writer who has captured the life in a typical (but funny) middle school. Her use of voice and interspersed dramatic vignettes shows how carefully she crafts her work. This novel is perfect for a class set for reading together or literature circles, as it is a wholesome book that has themes of family, friendship, and discovering oneself. It would make a great gift for a mid-grade level reader. I highly recommend it! Coming in January 2010 from Dell Books for Young Readers, an imprint of Penguin Group, Inc. Preorder from a bookstore near you! Support independent booksellers – keep our neighborhood bookstores alive!
June 1, 2010
Loved the title and the cover art (yes, I tend to judge a book by it's cover), but the book itself was a bit of a disappointment. It could have been a kind of fun middle-grades read, but it seemed a little too silly, too melodramatic (even for middle school), and just overall trying too hard.
It was hard to sympathize with the whiney protagonist or to really envision an 8-year-old (her college-level intelligent little sister) talking or acting the way she did. And the parents were just too over-the-top as well. I mean, just because they are both Shakespeare professors who really, really love their subject matter, it doesn't mean you would expect their characters to embrace the dress, language, and mannerisms of the Shakespearean age. Or never allow their children to use contractions . . .
Maybe if the author could have thrown in some humor, it would have been a worth-while read.
It was hard to sympathize with the whiney protagonist or to really envision an 8-year-old (her college-level intelligent little sister) talking or acting the way she did. And the parents were just too over-the-top as well. I mean, just because they are both Shakespeare professors who really, really love their subject matter, it doesn't mean you would expect their characters to embrace the dress, language, and mannerisms of the Shakespearean age. Or never allow their children to use contractions . . .
Maybe if the author could have thrown in some humor, it would have been a worth-while read.
January 8, 2025
This book was not made for me. I did enjoy the Shakespeare references, but this book was a bit melodramatic! Crises around EVERY corner! Still, it's awesome to see a middle grade/YA book that has so many quotes and references to Shakespeare.
July 20, 2014
Poor Hamlet. She just wants to hang out with her close group of friends and make it through 8th grade by flying under the radar and not standing out. Kind of hard when Hamlet’s 7 year old genius sister Desdemona (Dezzie) who up to now has been home schooled, will now taking classes at Hamlet’s middle school. Dezzie is ready for college but still needs to take music appreciation and art classes to fill out her transcript. On the first day of school Hamlet just wants to connect with her friends and blend in. Not going to happen. Instead of being able to arrive at school alone like before, Hamlet has to show up on the first day not only with Dezzie, but also her mother in full Elizabethan attire. Both of Hamlet’s parents are extremely enthusiastic Shakespeare scholars who teach at the local college. Both parents wear full Elizabethan regalia around town and at home, prepare and eat only authentic Shakespearean meals such as pottage, and distain the use of contractions, calling them “commoner’s speech”.
Hamlet describes that first day like this:
“I hadn’t figured out a way to stop time, join the circus, or make myself invisible. I hadn’t been able to contract a serious (but not life-threatening) illness, change my identity, or get into the witness protection program. I hadn’t even been able to talk my mother into staying home or waiting in the car. Instead, I had to follow Mom-dressed like an Elizabethan superhero with purple velvet cloak billowing and bells a’tinkling-down the hall. I had to escort my sister to the main office. I had to act like this was normal”.
Into the school office they go where Hamlet’s mother issues her standard greeting, “Goodwill to you”. Oh boy. You get the picture.
Hamlet loves her little sister, although she doesn’t quite understand her, nor do they have much in common. Dezzie’s IQ is 210. I didn't know anyone could actually have an IQ of 210! Sheesh, can they really test someone's IQ that high? I guess so. She is certainly highly intelligent and book smart but has no clue or experience about being with other kids her age or making friends. Hamlet tries to help by instructing her on the ins and outs of the middle school social scene. Hamlet clues her in that, unlike at home, commoner’s speech and slang are a communication necessity, “Huzzah”, her mother’s favorite exclamation, and other Elizabethan terms are not effective communication tools, and blending in is the ultimate goal. Hamlet tells her that not blending in can make you a target for teasing and other mean things kids do, to which Dezzie replies, “It’s the preadolescent sociological phenomenon at work, isn’t it? Fascinating. I’ve read about it, of course, but to experience it firsthand, will be a treat”. Oh, gosh, how I loved Dezzie, and Hamlet too. Both girls really stole my heart.
Just when Hamlet thinks things can’t get any worse than having your 7 year old sister be one the school’s math tutors when she’s flunking pre-algebra, it’s announced that the class project in language arts will be on Shakespeare and they will be performing A Midsummer Night’s Dream. Growing up in a house that is all Shakespeare, all the time, Hamlet wants nothing to do with this. But, try as she might to get away from performing in the play, she finds out that all those years of listening to her parents talk has given her a real ear and voice for Shakespeare. She finds, much to her amazement, that she has a natural fluency when reading the Bard’s words. She realizes that she, and not just everyone else in her family, is worthy of attention. As Shakespeare said, “It’s not in the stars to hold our destiny, but in ourselves”. Hamlet ultimately finds that being from an unusual family can give a girl license to find her own brand of extraordinary. Nothing tragic about that.
Loved, loved, loved this book. 5 enthusiastic stars. I highly recommend it.
Hamlet describes that first day like this:
“I hadn’t figured out a way to stop time, join the circus, or make myself invisible. I hadn’t been able to contract a serious (but not life-threatening) illness, change my identity, or get into the witness protection program. I hadn’t even been able to talk my mother into staying home or waiting in the car. Instead, I had to follow Mom-dressed like an Elizabethan superhero with purple velvet cloak billowing and bells a’tinkling-down the hall. I had to escort my sister to the main office. I had to act like this was normal”.
Into the school office they go where Hamlet’s mother issues her standard greeting, “Goodwill to you”. Oh boy. You get the picture.
Hamlet loves her little sister, although she doesn’t quite understand her, nor do they have much in common. Dezzie’s IQ is 210. I didn't know anyone could actually have an IQ of 210! Sheesh, can they really test someone's IQ that high? I guess so. She is certainly highly intelligent and book smart but has no clue or experience about being with other kids her age or making friends. Hamlet tries to help by instructing her on the ins and outs of the middle school social scene. Hamlet clues her in that, unlike at home, commoner’s speech and slang are a communication necessity, “Huzzah”, her mother’s favorite exclamation, and other Elizabethan terms are not effective communication tools, and blending in is the ultimate goal. Hamlet tells her that not blending in can make you a target for teasing and other mean things kids do, to which Dezzie replies, “It’s the preadolescent sociological phenomenon at work, isn’t it? Fascinating. I’ve read about it, of course, but to experience it firsthand, will be a treat”. Oh, gosh, how I loved Dezzie, and Hamlet too. Both girls really stole my heart.
Just when Hamlet thinks things can’t get any worse than having your 7 year old sister be one the school’s math tutors when she’s flunking pre-algebra, it’s announced that the class project in language arts will be on Shakespeare and they will be performing A Midsummer Night’s Dream. Growing up in a house that is all Shakespeare, all the time, Hamlet wants nothing to do with this. But, try as she might to get away from performing in the play, she finds out that all those years of listening to her parents talk has given her a real ear and voice for Shakespeare. She finds, much to her amazement, that she has a natural fluency when reading the Bard’s words. She realizes that she, and not just everyone else in her family, is worthy of attention. As Shakespeare said, “It’s not in the stars to hold our destiny, but in ourselves”. Hamlet ultimately finds that being from an unusual family can give a girl license to find her own brand of extraordinary. Nothing tragic about that.
Loved, loved, loved this book. 5 enthusiastic stars. I highly recommend it.
May 1, 2014
**4.5 Stars**
"All's not fair in life and middle school..."
No truer words have been spoken. And while I think it would be cool having parents who are Shakespearean scholars that dress in Elizabethan-era clothing - in public - and serve dinners from an Elizabethan-era cookbook, I can see how that might cause a few problems for a middle schooler. Add to that a genius 7 year old sister, who is matriculating in the same grade as you because she needs the art credit for her college courses as well as the socialization, and well, you have a tale of woe for one Hamlet Kennedy.
I initially purchased this book for my younger daughter. I hoped it would give her some perspective and something to laugh at as she was/is dealing with a similar situation. (no, I don't dress in Shakespearean regalia.) She didn't get far into the book because she felt it was a bit too close to her real life but now that I've finished it, I'm going to encourage her to give it another chance.
Ms. Dionne did an excellent job of describing the pitfalls and problems facing middle schoolers. She also provided options for navigating these tricky waters. From mean girls, friend issues, academic struggles, and parental embarrassment, Hamlet proved nothing is insurmountable. Ms. Dionne also seems to be sending a few messages about following your passion, not worrying about what others think, being true to yourself, and having fun. Hamlet had been surviving by trying to be invisible, not standing out...but she learned that having a talent - being seen - isn't all that bad.
I truly enjoyed Hamlet's story. It jarred some memories for me as well as gave me some insight into the world my two youngest children inhabit. And although I intended Hamlet's story to maybe soothe my daughter's feelings about her situation with her younger brother, I realized my son may have a few things to work through having entered middle school a few years before his time.
I probably got more out of this story than a middle schooler will - particularly since my circumstances are similar, but I think it's a great read for any middle schooler. It's a chance to see their problems are normal and maybe aren't so bad...plus it offers examples of ways to deal with those problems. And it provides lots of laughs along the way.
"All's not fair in life and middle school..."
No truer words have been spoken. And while I think it would be cool having parents who are Shakespearean scholars that dress in Elizabethan-era clothing - in public - and serve dinners from an Elizabethan-era cookbook, I can see how that might cause a few problems for a middle schooler. Add to that a genius 7 year old sister, who is matriculating in the same grade as you because she needs the art credit for her college courses as well as the socialization, and well, you have a tale of woe for one Hamlet Kennedy.
I initially purchased this book for my younger daughter. I hoped it would give her some perspective and something to laugh at as she was/is dealing with a similar situation. (no, I don't dress in Shakespearean regalia.) She didn't get far into the book because she felt it was a bit too close to her real life but now that I've finished it, I'm going to encourage her to give it another chance.
Ms. Dionne did an excellent job of describing the pitfalls and problems facing middle schoolers. She also provided options for navigating these tricky waters. From mean girls, friend issues, academic struggles, and parental embarrassment, Hamlet proved nothing is insurmountable. Ms. Dionne also seems to be sending a few messages about following your passion, not worrying about what others think, being true to yourself, and having fun. Hamlet had been surviving by trying to be invisible, not standing out...but she learned that having a talent - being seen - isn't all that bad.
I truly enjoyed Hamlet's story. It jarred some memories for me as well as gave me some insight into the world my two youngest children inhabit. And although I intended Hamlet's story to maybe soothe my daughter's feelings about her situation with her younger brother, I realized my son may have a few things to work through having entered middle school a few years before his time.
I probably got more out of this story than a middle schooler will - particularly since my circumstances are similar, but I think it's a great read for any middle schooler. It's a chance to see their problems are normal and maybe aren't so bad...plus it offers examples of ways to deal with those problems. And it provides lots of laughs along the way.
October 22, 2009
When I finished THE TOTAL TRAGEDY OF A GIRL NAMED HAMLET, I closed the book, still laughing, and had a few thoughts.
1. I wish Erin Dionne had gone to my junior high school. From her writing, you can just tell that her sense of humor and empathy make her totally the kind of person you'd want to sit with at lunch. You'd probably be laughing so hard you'd have milk coming out your nose. But it would be worth it. (Note: I've met Erin a couple times at conference/book signing things, and she IS really funny and nice, but I'm really just basing this observation on the book.)
2. This book is going to be a great one to share in the classroom because it makes Shakespeare (who is really, truly funny to kids if you can help them understand how) seem like an absolute riot. Hamlet Kennedy's parents are Shakespeare scholars, which makes 8th grade stressful enough, but on top of that, her gifted seven-year-old sister, who takes college courses, has enrolled at Hamlet's junior high school to meet her arts requirement. There are liberal doses of Shakespearian insults -- really fun ones-- sprinkled throughout the book, and the whole family also finds perfect times to quote Shakespeare. I'm not going to give away my favorite of the quotes, since it'd be too much of a spoiler, but the end of this book had me laughing and cheering simultaneously.
3. I loved it! This is one that's perfect for kids who want a true middle school book and aren't quite ready for the edgier YA stuff. Recommended! (Reviewed from an ARC that my friend loaned me. This book will be released from Dial in Feb. 2010.)
1. I wish Erin Dionne had gone to my junior high school. From her writing, you can just tell that her sense of humor and empathy make her totally the kind of person you'd want to sit with at lunch. You'd probably be laughing so hard you'd have milk coming out your nose. But it would be worth it. (Note: I've met Erin a couple times at conference/book signing things, and she IS really funny and nice, but I'm really just basing this observation on the book.)
2. This book is going to be a great one to share in the classroom because it makes Shakespeare (who is really, truly funny to kids if you can help them understand how) seem like an absolute riot. Hamlet Kennedy's parents are Shakespeare scholars, which makes 8th grade stressful enough, but on top of that, her gifted seven-year-old sister, who takes college courses, has enrolled at Hamlet's junior high school to meet her arts requirement. There are liberal doses of Shakespearian insults -- really fun ones-- sprinkled throughout the book, and the whole family also finds perfect times to quote Shakespeare. I'm not going to give away my favorite of the quotes, since it'd be too much of a spoiler, but the end of this book had me laughing and cheering simultaneously.
3. I loved it! This is one that's perfect for kids who want a true middle school book and aren't quite ready for the edgier YA stuff. Recommended! (Reviewed from an ARC that my friend loaned me. This book will be released from Dial in Feb. 2010.)
December 5, 2017
I loved “Models Don’t Eat Chocolate Cookies.” Oh man I did love that book. I was excited to read this one!
Sadly it wasn’t as good as the authors first one. Most of the characters seemed to blend together and even with the names I had a bit of a difficulty picking and choosing who was who.
The main character herself was entertaining. I thought it was a bit odd that she took origami pigs as a compliment and not an insult, but that sort of made me like her more. She is, after all, Hamlet. I might learn to make those. Sounds fun. :D
Dezzie. OH! I loved her so much in the beginning of the book. She reminded me a bit of a robot at first, cause of her language, but after a little while she did come across well, being a genius 7 year old.
I didn’t absolutely love when she found her “friends” and became a meany. If she had such a hard time just understand why she needed to fit in, shouldn’t she be more philosophical about being mean?
Their parents were so confusing and odd. But I guess they were ok.
Anyway. The whole Ty thing was not written out as skilled as I know Erin is. She wrote it to be exactly what Hamlet saw, and not giving any hints about what may actually be going on. I guess there were a couple of holes.
Carter the Meringue. Or Chicken. I like that. It actually made me laugh out loud.
KC was entertaining. Loved the “display” at the end during the play. XD
The Ice Cream shop made me feel right at home. I wanted a Cookies n’ Cream sitting at their table. I could smell the stick milky ice cream.
Over all I was a bit disappointed with the author, but enjoyed the book itself.
January 24, 2012
I chose this book because it was on my book shelf and I hadn't really known if it interested me. The Total Tragedy of a Girl Named Hamlet is about a middle school who tries to fit in and have the best school year so far, seeing as she's now in eighth grade. All hope of that wish coming true comes two an end when her genius, seven year old sister begins attending school with her. Hamlet's family is anything but ordinary, if her name is any indication. Her parents passionate about the Bard and could practically live in the Elizabethan Era. It seems that everything they do has to do with Shakespeare and when Hamlet discovers she'll have to deal with Shakespeare at home and school, she determines that this would be her worst year ever. Then, as if she didn't think life could get any more difficult, her little sister becomes friends with her archenemies. So as she sees it, the boy she likes doesn't even know she exists, her genius sister is at her school, making friends with the wrong people and Shakespeare is everywhere trying to make her life miserable. In the end she gets trough some of her struggles and embraces her life the way it is. I enjoyed this story because it was different form the book that I usually read and I could more or less relate to Hamlet in a way. I would recommend this book to other young readers because I think that they would be able to relate to Hamlet's life as a middle schooler.
February 10, 2012
This book really made me feel like I was in eighth grade again. I thought Dionne did a really good job of making the drama and stress of eighth grade seem really real without seeming ridiculous. I think it is easy for adults to look back at middle school with the attitude of "those silly kids with all their imaginary angst," but Dionne reminded me of how those things really were a big deal to me and the anguish at times could be very real.
This is a story about a girl (poor girl—her actual first name is Hamlet—why has she not given herself an alternate nickname?) who is in a family with two college professor parents and a genius younger sister. She has spent her life trying to be average and completely blend in with all the other kids at school, and she definitely tries to have nothing in common with her parents.
Throughout the course of the novel, she discovers a talent she has that is not average and that she might have more in common with her parents than she would like to admit.
While I didn't have to navigate those issues, it did remind me of how every molehill in eighth grade feels like a mountain. I would have really appreciated this novel at that age.
Also, I really like the role the counselor plays in this novel. Hamlet has a really great school counselor. All schools should have counselors who listen and care like that.
This is a story about a girl (poor girl—her actual first name is Hamlet—why has she not given herself an alternate nickname?) who is in a family with two college professor parents and a genius younger sister. She has spent her life trying to be average and completely blend in with all the other kids at school, and she definitely tries to have nothing in common with her parents.
Throughout the course of the novel, she discovers a talent she has that is not average and that she might have more in common with her parents than she would like to admit.
While I didn't have to navigate those issues, it did remind me of how every molehill in eighth grade feels like a mountain. I would have really appreciated this novel at that age.
Also, I really like the role the counselor plays in this novel. Hamlet has a really great school counselor. All schools should have counselors who listen and care like that.
March 22, 2011
I thought this was a very clever book. I loved all the Shakespeare quotes and references to the Bard. Down to naming their children Hamlet and Desdemona to the quirky t-shirts they wore; it was a hoot. My favorite was dad's T with the number 2 with two bees and the word not and 2 bees in a circle with a line through it. Hamlet starts eight grade and along with her is her seven-year-old genius sister who is there to learn social skills who also happens to be Hamlet's pre-algebra tutor. If that isn't bad enough her parent who look like they walked right out of the Globe Theater are helping with the Shakespeare production. But as Shakespeare said, "it is not in the stars to hold our destiny, but in ourselves," and Hamlet comes to realize that being in this unusual family has given her license to find where she fits into this extraordinary life. It is funny and of course full of your typical pre-teen adolescent woes, queen bees, cut-ups and crushes. The Bard makes that all worth while.
January 1, 2019
Hamlet just wants to blend in, but that's not easy when your parents live Shakespeare, your genius kid sister is joining your class at school, and all signs point to a secret admirer (who isn't your crush). The Bard and the Globe. Ice cream and belled cloaks. Origami and meringue. Iambic pentameter and contractions.
Loved the whole story. (Shakespeare-based stories are trending on my favorites list for the year.) Hamlet wrestles with wanting to blend in, only to surprise herself by finding her own way to stand out. In embracing who we are and doing what we love, it's possible to have a whole lot of fun.
Loved the whole story. (Shakespeare-based stories are trending on my favorites list for the year.) Hamlet wrestles with wanting to blend in, only to surprise herself by finding her own way to stand out. In embracing who we are and doing what we love, it's possible to have a whole lot of fun.
May 11, 2010
While you'd think having your seven year old sister being in eigth grade with you would be an interesting conflict, it fell flat for me. I could see the author trying to up the suspense by adding a mystery crush, failing grades, and an unexpected talent, but they were trite and obvious. Maybe I'm too old to appreciate how tough middle school is. The MC's biggest fear, her ability to read Shakespeare with ease, just didn't seem like a big deal. I couldn't even finish this book and that's saying something, because I usually finish stories I don't like.
July 24, 2018
amazing amazing book. it was well written in a way that keeps you reading non-stop. the story was as unique as its caracters, and i kinda miss the school and its drama after reading this lol
March 9, 2025
2.5 but I'll round up.
I love Shakespeare, but it just wasn't my favorite.
I love Shakespeare, but it just wasn't my favorite.
March 7, 2017
Hamlet seems like a stereotypical character. She's average but her family isn't, one day she realizes she has some talent she doesn't want, and an admirer that catches her attention in peculiar ways and won't let her know their identity. Big deal. But the reason I actually like this book a is because of Dessie (Desdemona). She's one of the peculiar family members. The main reason I like her is because of how salty and merciless she can be. I can also relate to her. One way I relate to her is what she was doing art and getting upset because it wasn't turning out how it was in her head. I especially like the scene that was a flashback to when she was even younger and they were at the mall. She was always abnormally smart, especially for her age, and when an employee walked over to talk to her about meeting Santa, she dragged them all to the 13th dimension and back. The main reason why I would have a reason to not like her is how she wouldn't trust Hamlet.
February 4, 2013
I always find something surprising when I'm browsing. The Total Tragedy of a Girl Named Hamlet was one of those books. I picked it up, and ended up loving it...most of it. "All Hamlet Kennedy wants is to be a normal eighth grader. But with parents like hers - Shakespearean scholars who actually dress in Elizabethan regalia . . . in public! - it's not that easy. As if they weren't strange enough, her genius seven-year-old sister will be attending her middle school, and is named the new math tutor. Then, when the Shakespeare Project is announced, Hamlet reveals herself to be an amazing actress. Even though she wants to be average, Hamlet can no longer hide from the fact that she- like her family - is anything but ordinary."
I loved almost everything about this novel except for Hamlet herself (sometimes). I didn't like how she was so embarrassed by her sister's smartness, though I could easily see how she was embarrassed by her parents, who are over-the-top. Also, I wouldn't exactly call Hamlet ordinary- more like below average. Her ignorance in certain areas astonished me. And she's my age. I'm certainly not a genius, but I'd like to think I'm a smart person. I at least know who Jackson Pollock is. Also, aren't you supposed to take pre-algebra in seventh, not eighth grade? What is education coming to? And Hamlet's so unwilling to be herself for much of the book; she is part of the proverbial "fit in" class of students. She tries not to distinguish herself, so her much of her year is horrible, because so many things happen that distinguish her, in positive and negative lights.
I loved the format of this sometimes funny book though; "scenes" are written in play format, sometimes what really happens, and sometimes what Hamlet is imagining. Don't worry though; the whole book isn't like that. Just a few pages at most. But they're really amusing.
I loved Dezzie, Hamlet's genius sister. She is a genius; she's practically an expert on everything. Her speech is a bit stiff and she doesn't have much experience socializing, but she was amazing. I'd probably get along well with her, though it would be a bit embarrassing to have a seven year old know more than you do. But. We could have awesome discussions about literature.
I just loved the way the book ended. It felt just right, and it was pretty hilarious too. Saber and Mauri, the two "villains" of this book, get their comeuppance, and it was sweet revenge, though I predicted it beforehand. I do find it a bit hard to believe that even the stupidest of eighth graders would believe that Benjamin Franklin, Leonardo DaVinci, and Mozart all lived at the same time (as Shakespeare). And submarines? Oh please. Completely unrealistic, but totally satisfying. I would highly recommend this easy and excellent book. I, for one, didn't want it to end.
www.novareviews.blogspot.com
I loved almost everything about this novel except for Hamlet herself (sometimes). I didn't like how she was so embarrassed by her sister's smartness, though I could easily see how she was embarrassed by her parents, who are over-the-top. Also, I wouldn't exactly call Hamlet ordinary- more like below average. Her ignorance in certain areas astonished me. And she's my age. I'm certainly not a genius, but I'd like to think I'm a smart person. I at least know who Jackson Pollock is. Also, aren't you supposed to take pre-algebra in seventh, not eighth grade? What is education coming to? And Hamlet's so unwilling to be herself for much of the book; she is part of the proverbial "fit in" class of students. She tries not to distinguish herself, so her much of her year is horrible, because so many things happen that distinguish her, in positive and negative lights.
I loved the format of this sometimes funny book though; "scenes" are written in play format, sometimes what really happens, and sometimes what Hamlet is imagining. Don't worry though; the whole book isn't like that. Just a few pages at most. But they're really amusing.
I loved Dezzie, Hamlet's genius sister. She is a genius; she's practically an expert on everything. Her speech is a bit stiff and she doesn't have much experience socializing, but she was amazing. I'd probably get along well with her, though it would be a bit embarrassing to have a seven year old know more than you do. But. We could have awesome discussions about literature.
I just loved the way the book ended. It felt just right, and it was pretty hilarious too. Saber and Mauri, the two "villains" of this book, get their comeuppance, and it was sweet revenge, though I predicted it beforehand. I do find it a bit hard to believe that even the stupidest of eighth graders would believe that Benjamin Franklin, Leonardo DaVinci, and Mozart all lived at the same time (as Shakespeare). And submarines? Oh please. Completely unrealistic, but totally satisfying. I would highly recommend this easy and excellent book. I, for one, didn't want it to end.
www.novareviews.blogspot.com
March 15, 2012
In the book the total tragedy of a girl named hamlet produced and written by the author Erin Dionne, published this book in the year January 7, 2010 with 285 pages. Hamlet and Dezzie are the two main characters in this book, hamlet is dezzie’s big sister who is taking classes lower than Dezzie is, although hamlet is in the eighth grade she has long hair, and is very loving and caring when she wants to be, or at least when her parents make sure she is watching her sister’s every movement while there at school, she is taking pre algebra right now , Meanwhile Dezzie is 7 years old, reading on a college degree level, she is the genius of the family and is currently attending middle school with her big sister, she becomes her sisters tutor later on in the story. But in this book there are several ups and downs in this story but they all contribute equally to her story because it all happens either at home or school with the same people almost every time. The main issues of this story involve hamlets jealousy between her and her genius sister who is ruining her life, there is a mystery boy who is leaving origami pigs in her locker, hamlet is in love with a boy named Carter who is still not in love with her at all, her Shakespeare scholar parents dress in Elizabeth regalia clothing, and she feels very lonely because of her unwanted talent. Hamlet and Dezzie are so different from there head to there toes that they are so much alike. On Page 64: Hamlets math teacher just ruined her life, as she announces “And now we have it, Dezzie is going to be your guy’s new math tutor.” I think this quote was really funny because her little sister is tutoring her ‘big ‘sister. On page: 104: “It is not in the stars to hold our destiny, but it is in ourselves.” – written by Shakespeare, quoted by hamlet as she began to look over the quote a few times, she than realizes that she does have a freaky family but can no longer hide from the fact, I have a big family with all sorts of color’s, personalities, and qualities so together as a family we are some of the most happy people. Anybody that wants to feel what it is like to be back in eighth grade again, love reading books with mysteries and of course having several family friends should take the chance to read this book, because all the tragic and good events she goes through turn upside down. Thru ought all of these highlights she has got herself a big handful of trouble.
September 21, 2012
The Total Tragedy of a Girl Named Hamlet
by Erin Dionne
304 pages
This book is about a girl named Hamlet Kennedy, in 8th grade. Just like the character Hamlet in one of Shakesphere's plays, she is having a tragic situation. First of all, she has a genius 7 year old little sister named Desdemona(after a character from one of Shakesphere's play) who is entering 8th grade with her.(Her parents were even thinking about putting Desdemona into high school but she might have a hard time, so they decided to put her into 8th grade to have some experience and have Hamlet help her out a little bit.) Second, her english class is sturying the Bard, and what's worse about that is that her parents love Shakesphere and they even teach Schakesphere. Hamlet Kennedy, just wants to be an ordinary kid, just like the others, and be average, but her situation just won't get any better. Everybody looks at her strangely when her parents come to her school and she has to guide them. What do the other kids think of them? What will she do? How will she survive 8th grade?
I really enjoyed reading the book throughout because the storyline was interesting the whole way and nothing was normal. For example, Hamlet had the strangest parents any 8th grader did not have. Her parents are Shakesphere admirers, and her mom doesn't even like contractions, either. This proves that nothing was normal. Another example, Hamlet's 7 year old sister is in her grade level. That is nothing normal you would see everyday, and Hamlet's parents even thought of putting her in high school! Hamlet has to run around the school building picking her sister up and drop her off at every class, while she alone has to get to hers! This just shows that there is nothing normal in Hamlet Kennedy's life. However, because of this strangeness in her life, I was able to enjoy reading this book.
by Erin Dionne
304 pages
This book is about a girl named Hamlet Kennedy, in 8th grade. Just like the character Hamlet in one of Shakesphere's plays, she is having a tragic situation. First of all, she has a genius 7 year old little sister named Desdemona(after a character from one of Shakesphere's play) who is entering 8th grade with her.(Her parents were even thinking about putting Desdemona into high school but she might have a hard time, so they decided to put her into 8th grade to have some experience and have Hamlet help her out a little bit.) Second, her english class is sturying the Bard, and what's worse about that is that her parents love Shakesphere and they even teach Schakesphere. Hamlet Kennedy, just wants to be an ordinary kid, just like the others, and be average, but her situation just won't get any better. Everybody looks at her strangely when her parents come to her school and she has to guide them. What do the other kids think of them? What will she do? How will she survive 8th grade?
I really enjoyed reading the book throughout because the storyline was interesting the whole way and nothing was normal. For example, Hamlet had the strangest parents any 8th grader did not have. Her parents are Shakesphere admirers, and her mom doesn't even like contractions, either. This proves that nothing was normal. Another example, Hamlet's 7 year old sister is in her grade level. That is nothing normal you would see everyday, and Hamlet's parents even thought of putting her in high school! Hamlet has to run around the school building picking her sister up and drop her off at every class, while she alone has to get to hers! This just shows that there is nothing normal in Hamlet Kennedy's life. However, because of this strangeness in her life, I was able to enjoy reading this book.
September 6, 2011
Hamlet Kennedy just wants to fit in. Eighth grade is hard enough without being in the spotlight, but thanks to a genius little sister and her Shakespearean professor parents that's exactly where she finds herself. Okay, it's weird enough having to live with a name like Hamlet, but how would you like to have a class with your seven-year-old sister? When Hamlet's English and History teachers decide to do a 'Salute to Shakespeare' unit, Hamlet just knows her parents will parade through her school in period costumes and embarrass her further.
The Total Tragedy of a Girl Named Hamlet is all about fitting in, or rather, not standing out. Many a middle school student spends three years trying to be just like everyone else. For Hamlet, there's no way she can do it. Having her little sister in the same school, much less the same class is a major reason. I loved how she desperately tries to seem like her neighbor, while knowing that there's no way she can. Her cringe of embarrassment at having her classmates actually see her mother's odd dress is exactly how many eighth graders feel about their parents. Most parents aren't as exaggeratedly embarrassing as Hamlet's, but I know most middle schoolers feel exactly the same way as Hamlet about their own parents. How Hamlet resolves her feelings and eventually embraces her uniqueness will have readers cheering.
A fun read about the highs and lows of being in middle school, The Total Tragedy of a Girl Named Hamlet will be a must read for anyone who dreams of just fitting in. I give it a B+.
The Total Tragedy of a Girl Named Hamlet is all about fitting in, or rather, not standing out. Many a middle school student spends three years trying to be just like everyone else. For Hamlet, there's no way she can do it. Having her little sister in the same school, much less the same class is a major reason. I loved how she desperately tries to seem like her neighbor, while knowing that there's no way she can. Her cringe of embarrassment at having her classmates actually see her mother's odd dress is exactly how many eighth graders feel about their parents. Most parents aren't as exaggeratedly embarrassing as Hamlet's, but I know most middle schoolers feel exactly the same way as Hamlet about their own parents. How Hamlet resolves her feelings and eventually embraces her uniqueness will have readers cheering.
A fun read about the highs and lows of being in middle school, The Total Tragedy of a Girl Named Hamlet will be a must read for anyone who dreams of just fitting in. I give it a B+.
April 15, 2011
Likeable, funny light diversion. Not a great book, but a perfectly good one. An author doesn't invoke Shakespeare lightly, and having done so,It was hard to feel Hamlet's "tragedy," which was entirely due to self-absorption, when there is so much real tragedy in the world. But yes, eighth graders really are that wrapped up in themselves.
The set pieces were pretty funny, especially when the parents come to school in Renaissance Faire costume with a tambourine. I loved that the dad had a "Shakespeare hates your emo poetry" t-shirt, and I loved that Hamlet finally understood her parents better when she realized they were great, passionate teachers who had a devoted following among their own college students. It was enjoyable, but predictable, that the mean girls would get what was coming to them. However, I'm not sure I liked the way Hamlet and Dezzie engineered their downfall. It would have been much better plotting had the girls brought about their own destruction.
The device of arranging the story by acts and scenes didn't really work because this "Hamlet" only has three "acts," and Shakespearean plays follow a pretty strict five-act structure. Had Dionne followed that structure, the parallels between herself and the tragic prince would have made more sense.
The set pieces were pretty funny, especially when the parents come to school in Renaissance Faire costume with a tambourine. I loved that the dad had a "Shakespeare hates your emo poetry" t-shirt, and I loved that Hamlet finally understood her parents better when she realized they were great, passionate teachers who had a devoted following among their own college students. It was enjoyable, but predictable, that the mean girls would get what was coming to them. However, I'm not sure I liked the way Hamlet and Dezzie engineered their downfall. It would have been much better plotting had the girls brought about their own destruction.
The device of arranging the story by acts and scenes didn't really work because this "Hamlet" only has three "acts," and Shakespearean plays follow a pretty strict five-act structure. Had Dionne followed that structure, the parallels between herself and the tragic prince would have made more sense.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 16, 2011
A fun, light read of a girl coming to grips with the "unfair" nature of teenage-hood and discovering more of who she is. I like the "twist" of the guy situation, for though I suspected the pig-giver, I was happy with how the difficulties were resolved. I thought that Hamlet was a bit woe-is-me-I'm-the-victim, but I think she was supposed to be portrayed this way. Because weren't plenty of us like that as teenagers? *ahem* That's why I love that she says at the end that KC was right and she needed to just lighten up. I was thinking that the whole book!
I loved the relationship between the sisters, even during their fight. I loved that it was strong and steady, in spite of the vast differences between the two. I thought Ely and Judith said "dude" way too much. Hasn't that gotten to be passe, yet?! Found a few editorial mistakes. Thought it funny that people would make fun of Hamlet's name, considering some of theirs. I mean, Saber? Would you like to be named after a kind of sword?
But it was a good, clean read with enjoyable characters, subtle lessons, fun humor, and a solid story. I liked it. And the title is rather fun, too.
More of a 3.5 rating.
I loved the relationship between the sisters, even during their fight. I loved that it was strong and steady, in spite of the vast differences between the two. I thought Ely and Judith said "dude" way too much. Hasn't that gotten to be passe, yet?! Found a few editorial mistakes. Thought it funny that people would make fun of Hamlet's name, considering some of theirs. I mean, Saber? Would you like to be named after a kind of sword?
But it was a good, clean read with enjoyable characters, subtle lessons, fun humor, and a solid story. I liked it. And the title is rather fun, too.
More of a 3.5 rating.
June 7, 2011
You’re registering for 8th grade, and your parents are dressed up in Shakespearian clothing – not because there’s a Renaissance fair going on – noooo - they dress in Shakespearian clothing all the time. All the time. So, now you’re showing up in the main office, you’re standing next to your parents who are dressed in heavy velvet and brocade, what could worse?
This could be worse - your parents are registering your 7 year old sister in your classes. You see, your 7 year old sister is a genius, in fact, attendance in the afternoon classes are waivered because she’ll be taking college-prep courses.
Even more worse is when you find out that your sister is meeting friends more quickly than you ever have – but wait, these are not real friends because you know them and you know they’re not that friendly. There must be an ulterior motive – they must be buddy-ing up to her for other reasons . . .
And to top it all, someone’s leaving cute little origami pigs in your locker – wait, pigs, ham, hamlet, is someone trying to be funny?
This could be worse - your parents are registering your 7 year old sister in your classes. You see, your 7 year old sister is a genius, in fact, attendance in the afternoon classes are waivered because she’ll be taking college-prep courses.
Even more worse is when you find out that your sister is meeting friends more quickly than you ever have – but wait, these are not real friends because you know them and you know they’re not that friendly. There must be an ulterior motive – they must be buddy-ing up to her for other reasons . . .
And to top it all, someone’s leaving cute little origami pigs in your locker – wait, pigs, ham, hamlet, is someone trying to be funny?
November 24, 2013
The two main characters are sisters; Hamlet and Desdemona or Dezzie. Their parents are both Shakespearean scholars, totally obsessed with the Bard, and embrace Elizabethan language and dress… 24/7. Dezzie, a seven year old genius, is enrolled in Hamlet’s eighth grade class so she can experience social interaction with people before enrolling in college courses. On top of that, Hamlet finds out that her class will be studying and performing a Shakespeare play, discovering an unexpected talent in the process.
This book was very entertaining and endearing. I think it would appeal to just about every middle school girl. It touches on some of the important changes and subjects middle schoolers face through the eccentric and comical lens of Hamlet's life. You feel and understand her frustration and "turmoil" as her parents and sister unknowingly embarrass her through her eighth grade year. The ending made me smile and the sisters' relationship over the course of the book was pretty accurate for those who have an annoying yet lovable younger sibling.
This book was very entertaining and endearing. I think it would appeal to just about every middle school girl. It touches on some of the important changes and subjects middle schoolers face through the eccentric and comical lens of Hamlet's life. You feel and understand her frustration and "turmoil" as her parents and sister unknowingly embarrass her through her eighth grade year. The ending made me smile and the sisters' relationship over the course of the book was pretty accurate for those who have an annoying yet lovable younger sibling.
November 7, 2014
First things first, this book is a Joe-average middle grade book. Hamlet Kennedy is much like other main characters of other books in the same genre. Possibly if I had read less middle grade books before, I would have given this a better rating. But after years of reading and prescribing to children books with the exact same plot, I can no longer take these books seriously.
Now onto the book itself:
The vocabulary and grammar was very simple. I enjoyed it as a light read, but as an English teacher, I found it to be much too simple! The pigs amused me. Overall, the plot was very thin and the characters were flat. A little more sub-plot would have helped tremendously since the plot was as usual, teenage girl trying to fit in. But, negatives aside, I did like the plot twist at the end.
For all those people who want to read it, go ahead. Read it and have fun. After all, this is only my opinion. Just read at your own risk.
2/5 stars
-Yours grammatically,
Henrietta Wimple
Now onto the book itself:
The vocabulary and grammar was very simple. I enjoyed it as a light read, but as an English teacher, I found it to be much too simple! The pigs amused me. Overall, the plot was very thin and the characters were flat. A little more sub-plot would have helped tremendously since the plot was as usual, teenage girl trying to fit in. But, negatives aside, I did like the plot twist at the end.
For all those people who want to read it, go ahead. Read it and have fun. After all, this is only my opinion. Just read at your own risk.
2/5 stars
-Yours grammatically,
Henrietta Wimple
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 10, 2010
This is a charming book about a girl who has to step out from her carfully cultivated invisibility - which is in reaction to her genius little sister and extreme Shakepearean scholar parents - into her own type of spoglight. Hamlet herself is a great character. Her frustrations are totally believable. I found myself cringing for her at some of the more insane things her family did. It's a great coming of age story about a middle school student.
Though Hamlet is in the 8th grade, the story in some ways feels like it is happening to a younger girl, therefore ghe book would be entirely appropriate for age 10 and up. It has only a very mild romantic element (so mild as to almost be non-existant). It will probably appeal more to girls than boys - given the fact that Hamlet is a girl, but anyone who has ever been embarassed by their family should enjoy this story.
Though Hamlet is in the 8th grade, the story in some ways feels like it is happening to a younger girl, therefore ghe book would be entirely appropriate for age 10 and up. It has only a very mild romantic element (so mild as to almost be non-existant). It will probably appeal more to girls than boys - given the fact that Hamlet is a girl, but anyone who has ever been embarassed by their family should enjoy this story.
November 6, 2015
I've picked up this book, not because of the cover, nor the plot, nor the author, but because of the title. Isn't the name Hamlet too funny... for a girl??
Too bad the plot was lame. And that Hamlet did not live up the expectations. The allusions to Shakespeare -his works, his life- were fun, but sometimes they were a bit over the top. Her parents, a great example. Or Hamlet's talent in reading. Maybe I would have liked it more if I've read it when I was younger. Take the Babysitters Club series as an example. I've read it years ago, and I loooved it, but re-reading it now made me noticed the cliches, the unrealistic stuffs, the immature behavior of the girls, etc.
The only character I liked was Dezzie, Hamlet's younger sister. A 7-year-old genious, and that begins to experience 8th grade? Far more interesting than Hamlet's drama.
Too bad the plot was lame. And that Hamlet did not live up the expectations. The allusions to Shakespeare -his works, his life- were fun, but sometimes they were a bit over the top. Her parents, a great example. Or Hamlet's talent in reading. Maybe I would have liked it more if I've read it when I was younger. Take the Babysitters Club series as an example. I've read it years ago, and I loooved it, but re-reading it now made me noticed the cliches, the unrealistic stuffs, the immature behavior of the girls, etc.
The only character I liked was Dezzie, Hamlet's younger sister. A 7-year-old genious, and that begins to experience 8th grade? Far more interesting than Hamlet's drama.
February 10, 2015
The Total Tragedy of a Girl Named Hamlet is a good book to read. This book, however; is not apart of a series. It is an interesting book to read because there good things to find out about middle school and it's funny. So, my book is about a girl named Hamlet that just started a new year in 8th grade. Hamlet's sister is named Desdemona, or Dezzie, who just started 6th grade and her mom made Hamlet show Desdemona around campus. Everyone started to ask questions like "why didn't you ever tell us you had a sister," or " why did you never mention her to any of us?" Hamlet and her family are into Shakespeare, but embarrassed to admit it. This was a really great book and I think that you guys should read it also.
April 14, 2012
This book was positively a "Shakespeare-ience." :P
It's cute, funny, and felt like a mostly realistic portrayal of the 8th grade experience. I liked how Erin Dionne explored the concepts of "fitting in" vs. "sticking out" and I liked that we saw Hamlet struggle with both of these concepts. I also liked the inclusion of Desdemona, the girl genius, and the school counselor who just seemed like such a great listener. I also loved all the Shakespeare references and hoo boy, there was plenty of those!!
I wouldn't call it a classic piece of literature or one that I might remember for ages to come, but I enjoyed the heck out of it. :)
It's cute, funny, and felt like a mostly realistic portrayal of the 8th grade experience. I liked how Erin Dionne explored the concepts of "fitting in" vs. "sticking out" and I liked that we saw Hamlet struggle with both of these concepts. I also liked the inclusion of Desdemona, the girl genius, and the school counselor who just seemed like such a great listener. I also loved all the Shakespeare references and hoo boy, there was plenty of those!!
I wouldn't call it a classic piece of literature or one that I might remember for ages to come, but I enjoyed the heck out of it. :)
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