How to Teach Your Children Shakespeare

This specialized guide for parents hoping to instill a bit of literary genius into their youngsters is both a how-to book and a simple but serious analysis of many of Shakespeare’s major works. Olivier Award–winning playwright Ludwig’s (Lend Me A Tenor) compelling argument is that although it’s out of fashion, memorization—and particularly memorization of great literary works—is a gift you can give your children that will influence their academic and personal life. The book begins with an immediate lesson—memorizing a nine-word line from A Midsummer Night’s Dream—written in a direct, personal tone to show how easy and enjoyable the process can be; once this is demonstrated, Ludwig explains his methodology and purpose in the second chapter. Within 20 pages, the book turns to analysis of the chosen works as well as general lessons about Shakespeare’s life and important dates of the Renaissance, and discussions of the difference between poetry and prose. Ludwig breaks more famous speeches down, sentence by sentence, and highlights juicy bits and plot twists to hook children’s interest. The book, in coordination with a Web site of printable resources, will best suit parents with a real interest in and knowledge of Shakespeare, but will inspire any who wish to give their children the “benefit of his considerable knowledge and artistry.” Photos. Agent: Eric Simonoff, William Morris. (June)