Book Review
The Shakespeare Stealer
Read if you're interested in spiritual growth, or books for teen.
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7.5
VerdictRecommended
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Book Summary
This historical fiction novel follows Widge, an orphan with a knack for shorthand, who is ordered to steal Shakespeare's play 'Hamlet.' His journey through Elizabethan London and his interactions with the theater company lead him to question his allegiances and discover a sense of belonging.
What it does well
- — Explores themes of loyalty, honesty, and finding one's identity.
- — Widge's internal struggle with right and wrong is a positive moral aspect.
- — Demonstrates the importance of community and belonging.
Watch for
- — The premise involves a character being forced to steal, which is a morally questionable act, though Widge's redemption arc mitigates this.
- — Some characters exhibit dishonesty and cunning, though these are often portrayed negatively or as obstacles for Widge to overcome.
- — Brief mentions of 'lucky charms' or superstitious beliefs, common for the historical period, are not presented as normative Christian practice.
Verdict
While the central plot revolves around an act of theft, the story ultimately champions moral growth, loyalty, and the discovery of a good community. Christian readers, particularly younger ones, can appreciate Widge's journey from a life of deception to one of integrity, and discussions can be had about the choices characters make.
ALIGNMYREAD RECOMMENDATION
“While the central plot revolves around an act of theft, the story ultimately champions moral growth, loyalty, and the discovery of a good community. Christian readers, particularly younger ones, can appreciate Widge's journey from a life of deception to one of integrity, and discussions can be had about the choices characters make.”
Biblical alignment
- —Explores themes of loyalty, honesty, and finding one's identity.
- —Widge's internal struggle with right and wrong is a positive moral aspect.
- —Demonstrates the importance of community and belonging.
- —Characters learn to value friendship and integrity over material gain.
- —Provides a window into historical Elizabethan culture and the workings of the theater.
Areas of concern
- —The premise involves a character being forced to steal, which is a morally questionable act, though Widge's redemption arc mitigates this.
- —Some characters exhibit dishonesty and cunning, though these are often portrayed negatively or as obstacles for Widge to overcome.
- —Brief mentions of 'lucky charms' or superstitious beliefs, common for the historical period, are not presented as normative Christian practice.
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