Books About William Shakespeare

The Best William Shakespeare Books for Kids

Looking for excellent children's books about william shakespeare? This collection brings together Bookroo's highest-rated and most useful picks in one place.

Start with our editorial favorites, then browse recommendations organized by reading stage to find the right book for your reader.

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The Shortlist

Our 10 Favorite Books About William Shakespeare

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$958

Chapter Book · Ages 10–12 · 2007

The Wednesday Wars

By Gary D. Schmidt

A boy navigates Shakespeare, a stern teacher, and family turmoil during a tumultuous school year.

Newbery Honor (2008)

264 pages· 74,058 words· Est. 8 hour read

4.1/5 Goodreads · 48,825 ratings

$9.99Save 4%

Paperback

Summary: Seventh grader Holling Hoodhood believes his teacher, Mrs. Baker, despises him. Left alone with her on Wednesday afternoons, he delves into Shakespeare's plays, uncovering unexpected wisdom. As the Vietnam War rages and his father's business obsession strains their family, Holling learns to stand up for himself and his sister. Set in 1967 Long Island, this coming-of-age tale explores loyalty, courage, and the surprising lessons found in literature and life. Can Holling find his voice amidst the chaos and discover what truly matters?

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$2374

Chapter Book · Ages 7–9 · 2018

A Stage Full of Shakespeare Stories

By Angela McAllister, Alice Lindstrom (Illustrator) · Book #3 in the World Full of . . . series

Discover Shakespeare's timeless tales, retold for young readers in a captivating anthology.

128 pages

4.2/5 Goodreads · 281 ratings

$24.99Save 5%

Hardcover

Summary: Step into a world of wonder with this enchanting collection of Shakespeare's classics, reimagined for children. From the magic of 'The Tempest' to the tragedy of 'Romeo and Juliet,' each tale is beautifully illustrated, inviting young readers to explore the drama and intrigue of these timeless stories. Will love conquer all? Can dreams become reality? This anthology offers a perfect introduction to the Bard's most beloved works, sparking curiosity and imagination in readers of all ages.

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$858

Chapter Book · Ages 7–10 · 2010

Drama at Mouseford

By Thea Stilton · Book #1 in the Thea Stilton: Mouseford Academy series

Who will shine as Juliet in Mouseford Academy's grand play?

128 pages· 7,891 words· Est. 1 hour read

4.2/5 Goodreads · 1,455 ratings

$8.99Save 5%

Paperback

Summary: At Mouseford Academy's 600th anniversary, the Thea Sisters vie for the coveted role of Juliet in a special play. But with their rival, Ruby Flashyfur, also in the running, tensions rise. As the competition heats up, friendships are tested and secrets unfold. Who will capture the spotlight and become the star of Mouseo & Juliet? Dive into this thrilling tale of ambition, rivalry, and unexpected twists.

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$1597

Chapter Book · Ages 9–12 · 2019

Midsummer's Mayhem

Can Mimi's magical baking fix the chaos it caused?

352 pages· 62,823 words· Est. 7 hour read

4.1/5 Goodreads · 1,941 ratings

$16.99Save 6%

Hardcover

Summary: Mimi Mackson, feeling overshadowed in her talented family, enters a baking contest to prove herself. But when her dad loses his sense of taste and strange events unfold, Mimi and her new friend Vik must uncover the mystery behind the enchanted ingredients they found in the woods. As her family's troubles mount, Mimi learns that not all recipes lead to sweet outcomes. Can she solve the culinary conundrum before it's too late?

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$1597

Chapter Book · Ages 10–12 · 2013

Tower of the Five Orders

By Deron R. Hicks, Mark Edward Geyer (Illustrator) · Book #2 in the The Shakespeare Mysteries series

A young girl races to prove Shakespeare's manuscripts are real, risking her family's legacy.

297 pages· 45,798 words· Est. 5 hour read

4.1/5 Goodreads · 381 ratings

$16.99Save 6%

Hardcover

Summary: Thirteen-year-old Colophon Letterford faces a daunting challenge: proving the authenticity of Shakespeare's lost manuscripts. As her family's publishing legacy hangs in the balance, she embarks on a thrilling journey from Oxford's heights to London's sewers. With each twist, the stakes rise, and Colophon must unravel cryptic clues to protect her family's honor. Will she uncover the truth before it's too late? Dive into a world of mystery and intrigue where every discovery could change history.

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$1597

Picture Book · Ages 6–10 · 1992

Bard of Avon

By Diane Stanley (Author/Illustrator), Peter Vennema

A small-town boy becomes the world's greatest playwright amidst intrigue and theater fires.

48 pages· 4,085 words· Est. 32 min read-aloud

4.1/5 Goodreads · 786 ratings

$16.99Save 6%

Hardcover

Summary: From humble beginnings, William Shakespeare rises to fame in Elizabethan London, revolutionizing drama. Amidst noblemen and commoners, he faces accusations of treason and witnesses the fiery destruction of the Globe Theatre. Discover the man behind the timeless plays and the rebirth of theater in a world of intrigue and artistry.

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$1795

Picture Book · Ages 4–8 · 1999

William Shakespeare & the Globe

By Aliki

Explore Shakespeare's world from Elizabethan London to the Globe's rebirth.

Boston Globe–Horn Book Honor (1999)

48 pages· 1,707 words· Est. 14 min read-aloud

4.1/5 Goodreads · 356 ratings

$18.89Save 5%

Library Binding

Summary: Journey through Shakespeare's life in bustling Elizabethan London, where his plays captivated audiences at the Globe. Discover the theater's reconstruction and its enduring legacy. Dive into a world of history, drama, and timeless tales.

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$1049

Chapter Book · 1598

Much Ado About Nothing

By William Shakespeare · RSC School Shakespeare series

Unlock Shakespeare's world with engaging classroom adventures and vibrant performances.

208 pages

4.1/5 Goodreads · 262,578 ratings

$10.99Save 5%

Paperback

Summary: Dive into Shakespeare's timeless plays with a fresh series that brings his work to life in the classroom. Using dynamic RSC methods and vivid performance photos, students explore the Bard's most popular works, gaining a deeper understanding and appreciation. This series not only motivates but also builds confidence for all stages of Shakespearean study. What new insights will students uncover as they journey through these classic tales?

Sale price

$674

Chapter Book · Ages 8–12 · 2006

Who Was William Shakespeare?

By Celeste Mannis, Who HQ, John O'Brien (Illustrator) · Who Was . . . ? series

The life of William Shakespeare is explored from his childhood to his death, including his early years, his marriage, his career as a playwright and actor, and his later years.

105 pages· 9,098 words· Est. 1.5 hour read

4.0/5 Goodreads · 1,370 ratings

$6.99Save 4%

Paperback

Summary: Journey with young Will as he leaves Stratford for the bustling theaters of London. Discover how this enigmatic playwright's works captivated audiences and made him a legend. What secrets lie behind his success? Explore the life of Shakespeare through engaging illustrations and unravel the mystery of his extraordinary journey to fame and fortune.

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$958

Chapter Book · Ages 10–+ · 1798

Tales from Shakespeare

By Charles Lamb, Mary Lamb · Puffin Classics series

Experience Shakespeare's timeless tales reimagined with vivid storytelling.

383 pages

3.9/5 Goodreads · 7,052 ratings

$9.99Save 4%

Paperback

Summary: Step into the world of Shakespeare with Charles and Mary Lamb's retellings. From the intrigue of Hamlet to the humor of As You Like It, these tales capture the essence of the Bard's masterpieces. Will the power of his language and the depth of his characters resonate with a new generation? Discover the drama, wit, and wisdom that have captivated audiences for centuries, now brought to life in a fresh and engaging way. Perfect for newcomers and seasoned fans alike, these stories offer a gateway to the timeless works of Shakespeare.

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William Shakespeare Picture Books

Illustrated read-alouds about william shakespeare for preschool and elementary-age readers.

Graphic Nov.

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$1699

Bravo, Mr. William Shakespeare! (Graphic Novel)

Ages 7–11 · 2000

Explore seven Shakespeare plays through engaging illustrations and dialogue.

Graphic Nov.

Sale price

$1695

The Boy, The Bear, The Baron, The Bard

Ages 5–9 · 2004

A boy's leap onto Shakespeare's stage sparks a wild chase through London.

Ella Bella Ballerina and A Midsummer Night's Dream

#5 in Series

Sale price

$1499

Ella Bella Ballerina and A Midsummer Night's Dream

Ages 4–8 · 2015

Ella dances into a magical world, aiding fairies in a midsummer adventure.

Series

Sale price

$1795

Poetry for Kids: William Shakespeare

Ages 8–12 · 2018

Discover Shakespeare's timeless themes through illustrated verses and sonnets.

Series

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$1799

Romeosaurus and Juliet Rex

Ages 4–8 · 2018

Two dinosaurs defy family feuds to forge an unlikely friendship.

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William Shakespeare Chapter Books & Middle Grade

Longer stories about william shakespeare for developing and independent readers.

Series

Graphic Nov.

Sale price

$715

Macbeth (Graphic Novel)

Ages 10–14 · 1623

A prophecy ignites ambition, leading to a bloody quest for power.

Sale price

$1880

Shakespeare's Secret

Ages 10–13 · 2005

A hidden diamond may reveal Shakespeare's secret. Can Hero uncover the truth?

The Stratford Zoo Midnight Revue Presents Macbeth

Series

Graphic Nov.

Sale price

$1999

The Stratford Zoo Midnight Revue Presents Macbeth

Ages 7–10 · 2014

Zoo animals perform Shakespeare at night, revealing unexpected drama and humor.

Series

Sale price

$999

As You Like It

Ages 12–17 · 1599

Exiled lovers navigate a forest of intrigue and rebellion.

#3 in Series

Sale price

$699

Shakespeare's Spy

Ages 8–12 · 2003

An orphan actor must uncover a thief to clear his name.

Series

Sale price

$699

The Taming of the Shrew

Ages 12–18 · 1593

Can a marriage built on manipulation transform into true love, or is it doomed to deception?

Series

Graphic Nov.

Sale price

$1399

The Stratford Zoo Midnight Revue Presents Romeo and Juliet (Graphic Novel)

Ages 7–10 · 2015

Zoo animals perform Shakespeare after dark. Chaos ensues.

#2 in Series

Sale price

$699

Shakespeare's Scribe

Ages 8–12 · 2000

An orphan actor's past threatens his future with Shakespeare's troupe during a plague tour.

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Sale price

$899

The Shakespeare Stealer

Ages 8–12 · 1998

An orphan must steal Shakespeare's 'Hamlet' or face dire consequences.

Series

Sale price

$799

What Is the Story of Romeo and Juliet?

Ages 8–11 · 2023

Uncover the origins of Romeo and Juliet's timeless tale.

Series

Sale price

$3850

Shakespeare Saves the Globe

Ages 7–10 · 2015

Time travelers must save Shakespeare's career to preserve his legendary plays.

Series

Sale price

$1295

Assassin's Code

Ages 10–13 · 2017

In Elizabethan London, a stagehand's quest to find her brother uncovers deadly plots.

View all william shakespeare chapter books

Keep exploring

Books about baking Books about family problems Books about loyalty Books about magic

The Best William Shakespeare Books for Kids

Our 10 Favorite Books About William Shakespeare

The Wednesday Wars

A Stage Full of Shakespeare Stories

Drama at Mouseford

Midsummer's Mayhem

Tower of the Five Orders

Bard of Avon

William Shakespeare & the Globe

Much Ado About Nothing

Who Was William Shakespeare?

Tales from Shakespeare

Great books, picked for their age.

William Shakespeare Picture Books

Bravo, Mr. William Shakespeare! (Graphic Novel)

The Boy, The Bear, The Baron, The Bard

Ella Bella Ballerina and A Midsummer Night's Dream

Poetry for Kids: William Shakespeare

Romeosaurus and Juliet Rex

William Shakespeare Chapter Books & Middle Grade

Macbeth (Graphic Novel)

Shakespeare's Secret

The Stratford Zoo Midnight Revue Presents Macbeth

As You Like It

Shakespeare's Spy

The Taming of the Shrew

The Stratford Zoo Midnight Revue Presents Romeo and Juliet (Graphic Novel)

Shakespeare's Scribe

The Shakespeare Stealer

What Is the Story of Romeo and Juliet?

Shakespeare Saves the Globe

Assassin's Code

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