Shakespeare's Scribe

by Gary L. Blackwood

Book Overview

When an outbreak of the deadly Black Plague closes the Globe Theatre, William Shakespeare's acting troupe sets off on a tour of England. Widge, the orphan-turned-actor, knows that he'll be useful on the trip. Not only does he love the stage, but his knack for a unique shorthand has proven him one of the most valuable apprentices in the troupe. But then a mysterious man appears, claiming to know a secret from Widge's past-a secret that may forever...

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0142300667
• ISBN13: 9780142300664
• Release Date: February 2002
• Publisher: Penguin Young Readers Group
• Length: 272 Pages
• Weight: 0.53 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.7" x 5.1" x 7.7"
• Age Range: 8 to 12 years
• Grade Range: Grades 3 to 7

Customer Reviews

Blackwood does it again

After enjoying "The Shakespeare Stealer" I wondered whether I would like the second book or be disappointed. I am happy to say that it did not let me down! I think the strength of these books is the expert weaving of an interesting story (which also gives a fascinating feel for Elizabethan England) with the personal struggles of the main character. Underneath the delimna of the first book is Widge's introduction to the concept of family; the new experiences of loyalty and belonging complicate Widge's choices--and their consequences. In the midst of the hard times of this book, Widge faces insecurities about his identity and abilities. His desparation to keep the family he's found prompts his fear of not being valuable to that family... and to others... These books are quality historical fiction, and I look forward to reading "Shakespeare's Spy" with confidence. The only further note I'll make is a vote for the hardcover editions--I love the cover artwork, and I can't figure out why they didn't keep it for the paperbacks.

Terrific Adventure Story

When my twelve year old son recommended The Shakespeare Stealer to me, I put it aside for a while, but, gosh, my son doesn't recommend books very often to his English teacher mom, so I read it. The colorful characters and swift-moving plot kept me involved, so I was ready when my son handed me the sequel. I found it even better! Swordfights, the plague, and a mysterious, suspicious character enliven the plot. And Will Shakespeare himself has more of a role. What a fun and I must say educational (the dreaded E word) read for this age group! I'm ordering the next in the series today!

Greatest Novel I've Read in Awhile

This clever novel was one that I couldn't put down! It wasexciting and fun to read. I read it in about 4 days, andI totally enjoyed it. This book covers tough topics, whilebeing an enjoyable read. I would reccomend it to both boysand girls ages 11 and up because of some material in it that may be tough to understand. Read and Enjoy!

Even better than the Shakespeare Stealer.....

This book is an excellent read! IT is even better than the shakespeare stealer. After the plague becomes a threat to Lord Chamberlin's men they have to travel and preform plays in order to keep everything running. Sander decides to stay behind to take care of the orphan children and Widge goes. Widge however has a new threat. This new actor, Sal Pavy, who is as rude as anything is stealing all Widge's roles. Of course Widge is a good actor but is the new Sal Pavy even better? And to make matters worse Mr. Shakespeare breakes his arms and has to have Widge scribe for him. If Widge already doesn't have 2 much 2 do-- he also become a small physician for the Chamberlin's men since he was an apprentice to a physician, Dr.Bright, before. And then widge meets someone who claims to be his father. Is he really who he says he is? If so will Widge leave the company to be with him? This is a must read.

The first good sequel I've read

From the beginning, this sequel to the masterful THE SHAKESPEARE STEALER bodes ill (literally), with grim references to the devastsating outbreak of the plague that swept London in the early 1600s. Widge is back, with a cast of other great characters, and together they perform a startlingly real and profound tale of finding ones self and ones true family when just finding money enough for your daily bread is difficult enough. As the Lord Chamberlain's Men tour Northern England, the hardships of the gypsy life soon became apparent. As the players were turned back from town after town, I became as frustrated and bitter as Widge. When Redshaw appeared, I began to hope for Widge that he wouldn't have to end up choosing between his blood and his adopted family. And as Sal Pavy (known with the two names side by side throughout the book) stole part after part from his peers, I was angry. Whether you enjoy a good adventure or a puzzling mystery, you will enjoy this book, which well lives up to its predecessor.