Othello

I think that every house should have at least one work of Shakespeare in it. And every person should read one of those works in their lifetime. Shakespeare was a brilliant author and playwright who, through his great romances, tragedies, and comedies, brought to life the rawest of human emotions personified into characters. Shakespeare could craft a story like no other and he has contributed so much to modern literature. Everyone should be able to read his writing and be moved by the stories Shakespeare wrote. Unfortunately, not many people take the time to read Shakespeare; they are daunted by his use of language and the sheer size of some of his writings. They, therefore, miss out on these wonderful works. Othello, by Julius Lester fixes the problem for one gorgeous tragedy. It takes Shakespeare's play and retells it in modern English novel form.

Othello had fought in many wars and waged many battles. He had lived the life of a soldier ever since he came to Europe. Othello had seen many horrors too gruesome to speak of: his men slaughtered around him, his own sword taking a life before his eyes, and a shadow of death that he had grown used to. His lifestyle had hardened him and made him what he thought was unlovable. If his profession didn't turn people away, his color certainly did; as one of the only African men at court, many feared him for his black appearance. But she was not afraid if anything; she loved him all the more for it. Desdemona came into Othello's life like a spark of light that burst into brilliance. He loved her, she loved him, their love would go down through the ages. But would it be enough?

I loved this book! Before picking it up, I had not read many of Shakespeare's works; I found them challenging to read and not altogether interesting. But Othello rewritten by Julius Lester changed my mind. Written in plain English, with the occasional line from the original thrown in, the story packs no less of a punch. Though a tragedy, Othello is beautifully written and pulls at the heart strings as the doomed lovers' tale unfolds. With a love as strong as Romeo and Juliet, Othello and Desdemona capture the heart and break it in two. While not good for younger children, Othello is a tale that everyone should read. It will pull at your heart, bring tears to your eyes, and make you ache for a love so strong. It is a wonderful read.

Photo Credit Scholastic

*****
RJ