Romeo and Juliet by William Shakespeare
Washington Square Press, New York, 1992.
(Originally printed 1595)
ISBN: 0743477111

Plot Summary:
An ancient feud between the Montagues and Capulets has been raging in the town of Verona. Romeo, a Montague, is pining over his unrequited love for Rosaline, when his friends convince him to go to a party given by the Capulets. Here he meets Juliet, a Capulet, and therefore his sworn enemy, and falls head over heels in love with her. She feels the same way about him, and it is not until after he leaves the party that they learn about each others families.

When Romeo approaches Juliet later that night on her balcony, they agree to meet at the friar's the next day and get married. The friar is reluctant, but decides that it might be a good way to bring the families together.

When Tybalt, a Capulet, meets Romeo in the street, he tries to provoke him into a fight. Romeo, knowing that he cannot fight a Capulet any longer, tries to put him off. However, Romeo's friend Mercutio challenges Tybalt to a duel, where Tybalt succeeds in killing Mercutio. To avenge his friend's death, Romeo kills Tybalt. For this, Romeo is banished from Verona. He leaves for Mantua.

In the meantime, Juliet's father has promised her in marriage to Paris in three days time. Juliet goes to the Friar, who gives her a potion that will make it look as though she is dead until Romeo can return from Mantua. Before word can get to Romeo about the potion Juliet has taken, Romeo's servant informs him that Juliet is dead.

Romeo returns to Verona to find Juliet in her tomb. There he encounters Paris, who he kills. Then drinks the poison and dies. When Juliet awakens, she sees Romeo dead and decides she will not live without him. She takes his dagger and stabs herself to death.

Critical Evaluation:
This is the classic story of star-crossed lovers. There is not much more to say than already has been said. The poetry in it is some of Shakespeare's best and most romantic. Almost everyone can relate to falling in love with someone they are not supposed to love. Teenagers especially will appreciate the speedy pacing, action, and melodrama of the play. It is the very first play by Shakespeare I read, and will always be my favorite.

Reader’s Annotation:
What happens when the love of your life is your sworn enemy? Nothing good will come of it.

Information about the Author:
William Shakespeare was baptised on April 26, 1564 in Stratford Upon Avon. He lived as a professional writer in London, England and is the author of thirty-seven poems and numerous sonnets, though his authorship of all these works is debated by some. He was the leading playwright of his day, and also acted occasionally.

Genre: play, drama

Curriculum Ties: 9th grade English

Booktalking Ideas:
I would introduce the feud of the Montagues and Capulets, then pose the question, what would happen if a member from each fell in love? Then I would talk about Romeo and Juliet's whirlwind romance and the deaths of Mercutio and Tybalt and ask what the consequences of all these incidents might be.

Reading Level/Interest Age:
This book is often read in freshman English classes, so it is appropriate for ages 14 and up, though I think some of those reading a lower levels need some extra help understanding the verse as it is written. I would recommend it for older teens if they were to read it on their own.

Challenge Issues:
This play might be challenged for is depiction of teen aged sexuality, some crude jokes by the nurse, and of course, its violence. Though I would feel ridiculous having to defend Shakespeare, I would give the challenger a copy of the library's selection policy and have him fill out a complaint form.

Why I chose this book:
I chose this play because it is a great introduction to Shakespeare. It has everything: romance, sex, violence, and a tragic ending. Teenagers should eat it up.