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Children's Nonfiction Drama

Much Ado About Nothing for Kids

by (author) Lois Burdett

foreword by Denzel Washington

Publisher
Firefly Books
Initial publish date
Mar 2002
Category
Drama, Shakespeare
  • Paperback / softback

    ISBN
    9781552094136
    Publish Date
    Mar 2002
    List Price
    $9.95
  • Hardback

    ISBN
    9781552094112
    Publish Date
    Mar 2002
    List Price
    $19.95

Classroom Resources

Where to buy it

Out of print

This edition is not currently available in bookstores. Check your local library or search for used copies at Abebooks.

Description

"What, my dear Lady Disdain! Are you yet living?" These famous lines from Shakespeare's comedy Much Ado About Nothing delightfully show the verbal sparring between the reluctant lovers, Beatrice and Benedick who are happily brought together at the end by the schemes of their friends. And, no story is complete without at least one evil character, Don John, who unsuccessfully tries to tear apart the wedding plans of Hero and Claudio, the other lovers in this sparkling tale.

Written in rhyming couplets, Much Ado About Nothing, the eighth book in this successful series, captures all the exciting elements of the original story, and is truly a delightful read for both adult and child.

Lois Burdett has been a teacher at Hamlet Public School in Stratford, Ontario, for over twenty years and her expertise in bringing Shakespeare to life for children as young as seven is reflected in the children's clever insights and wonderful drawings which complement the play.

Her success has resulted in an ever-increasing demand for workshops as far afield as Europe and Australia where she instructs educators on how they too can familiarize young children with Shakespeare.

From the Foreword by Denzel Washington

"[Lois Burdett's] delightfully entertaining text is complemented by her students' thoughtful interpretations and charming artwork which make Much Ado About Nothing come alive in a whole new way."

 

About the authors

Lois Burdett's success in introducing Shakespeare to children is reflected in her growing international reputation. Her books and workshops for teachers have captured the attention and imagination of parents, educators, and lovers of Shakespeare around the world, including the American National Council of Teachers of English and the International Reading Association. Among other commendations, Lois Burdett has received Encyclopedia Britannica's National Award for Early Childhood Education, Canada's Meritorious Service Medal, the Canadian Teachers' Federation's Hilroy Fellowship, and two writers' awards. Burdett's many speaking engagements have included the International Reading Association and the National Council of Teachers of English. Her books, magazine articles, presentations and media interviews are testimony to her strong influence in the education community, where she has also been instrumental in helping teachers to incorporate Shakespeare into early grade curricula.

Lois Burdett's profile page

Denzel Washington's profile page

Excerpt: Much Ado About Nothing for Kids (by (author) Lois Burdett; foreword by Denzel Washington)

Beatrice approached, with Claudio by the hand,
"I've brought the Count, as was your command."
Don Pedro inquired, "My friend, why are you sad?
What's wrong with you, Claudio? Are you sick, my lad?"
But this faulty notion, Beatrice tried to dispel,
"The Count is neither sad, nor sick, nor merry, nor well.
He's jealous and thinks you tricked him, my lord!"
"Claudio, your beliefs are false!" the Prince deplored.
"I have wooed in thy name and fair Hero is won,
Her father has consented. Now my job is done."
Then Leonato arrived with Hero by his side.
"Count Claudio, take my sweet daughter for your bride."
The young man was speechless and knew not what to do.
"Speak, Count!" urged Beatrice, "Tis your cue!"
Claudio stammered, "Dear Hero, my heart soars."
He promised, "Lady, as you are mine, I am yours!"
Beatrice prompted Hero, "Speak cousin, or, if you cannot,
Stop his mouth with a kiss. Give it your best shot!"
Any thoughts of betrayal they would now replace,
And soon the two were locked in a loving embrace.
Don Pedro chuckled, "Beatrice, you have a merry heart!"
Beatrice confided, "It keeps sorrow apart!
Everyone in the world has a mate but I.
Good Lord, send me a husband, by and by.!"
The Prince interrupted with his own plea,
"I will get you one. How about me?"
"No, my lord, I was born to speak all mirth and jest."
Don Pedro laughed, "Being merry suits you best."

 

Editorial Reviews

I highly recommend this book for elementary schools. Teachers, parents, and students will enjoy reading, or staging this play.

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