Enter the Globe
Start with The Shakespeare Stealer, then follow Widge through the two sequels.
Book Series · 3 Books
Shakespeare Stealer Books
In order from The Shakespeare Stealer to Shakespeare's Spy.
Widge, an orphan trained in shorthand, is sent to steal the script of Hamlet but finds friendship and a possible home among Shakespeare's players. His life in the company continues through plague, touring, secrets from his past, and mysteries around the Globe Theatre.
Reviewed by the Bookroo Editors Updated
Reading order
How to Read Shakespeare Stealer
Read The Shakespeare Stealer, Shakespeare's Scribe, and Shakespeare's Spy in order. Each novel has its own historical adventure, while Widge's place in the acting company and his personal history develop across all three.
Sources: Gary Blackwood's official book list.
For parents
What Parents Should Know
The historical setting brings threats from harsh masters, thieves, weapons, plague, and dangerous secrets. Violence is not graphic, and theatrical camaraderie balances the suspense, but Widge's insecurity and the era's treatment of children can carry real emotional weight.
Where to start
Where Should My Child Start?
The first novel explains Widge's shorthand mission and how he joins Shakespeare's company.
Where the story begins
First Book in the Series
Sale price
$858
Book #1 · Chapter Book · Ages 8–12 · 1998
The Shakespeare Stealer
An orphan must steal Shakespeare's 'Hamlet' or face dire consequences.
216 pages· 47,918 words· Est. 6.5 hour read
$8.99Save 5%
Paperback
Summary: In Elizabethan England, orphan Widge is tasked with stealing Shakespeare's 'Hamlet' for his master. As he infiltrates the Globe Theatre, Widge faces a dilemma: fulfill his mission or embrace newfound loyalties. Will he betray the players or defy his master? This tale of intrigue and danger is woven with rich historical detail and unexpected twists.
In reading order
Shakespeare Stealer Series
3 books · Published 1998–2003
#1
Sale price
$858
The Shakespeare Stealer
Chapter Book · Ages 8–12 · 1998
An orphan must steal Shakespeare's 'Hamlet' or face dire consequences.
#2
Sale price
$674
Shakespeare's Scribe
Chapter Book · Ages 8–12 · 2000
An orphan actor's past threatens his future with Shakespeare's troupe during a plague tour.
#3
Sale price
$674
Shakespeare's Spy
Chapter Book · Ages 8–12 · 2003
An orphan actor must uncover a thief to clear his name.
Good to know
Common Questions
How many books are in the Shakespeare Stealer series?
There are 3 books in the Shakespeare Stealer series. It began with The Shakespeare Stealer in 1998, and the newest book, Shakespeare's Spy, was published in 2003.
What order should you read the Shakespeare Stealer books in?
Start with The Shakespeare Stealer and follow the series order — the books above are numbered #1 through #3.
What ages are the Shakespeare Stealer books best for?
The series is best for ages 8–12, based on the age ranges of the individual books.
The people
The Creative Behind the Books
The people who bring Shakespeare Stealer to life.
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