Curated by: Kayla Thompson, Adult Services, Cape Girardeau Public Library
April 23rd is Shakespeare Day. This day is believed to be the day that Shakespeare was both born and died. In honor of good old William, here are some Shakespeare-inspired stories that can be found at the Cape Girardeau Public Library!
Hamnet: a Novel of the Plague by Maggie O’Farrell: This story follows the death of Shakespeare’s 11-year-old son, Hamnet, and what follows after (i.e. Hamlet). This is a beautiful story about family, marriage, love, and loss all wrapped up in a wonderfully written historical setting.
Juliet’s Nurse: a Novel by Lois Laveen: It’s the story we all know and love, told from the perspective of Juliet’s poor, loving nurse. If you thought the original version wasn’t emotionally moving enough, here is a perspective full of love, grief, and family secrets like we have never seen before.
Macbeth by Jo Nesbø: A modern retelling of Macbeth’s tragic spiral from top to very bottom. Macbeth is a cop with a troubled and drug filled past. Unlike many, he has been successful and now has the money and power to back him up. Until his grip starts to slip. Now he will do anything to maintain his hold – including kill.
Death by Shakespeare: Snakebites, Stabbings, and Broken Hearts by Kathryn Harkup: I know, this one has quite the title. But don’t be discouraged! This nonfiction work follows the history of William Shakespeare and looks through the lens of his life to understand the influences within his most famous works. One of my favorite books by far!
