From Publishers Weekly
More authoritative and illuminating than Aliki's recent William Shakespeare and the Globe, this factual, focused and lively history is illustrated with 17 years' worth of paintings and drawings rendered by Everett, the "Artist of the Record" for the recent renovation of the Globe Theatre. Langley, a historian, describes the three GlobesAthe first, built in 1599 but burned to the ground in 1613; the second, which survived only until 1644; and the third, which opened in 1997 thanks to the visionary efforts of Sam Wanamaker. The focus of the text is on the first two theaters, but the drawings and photographs of the third building make Elizabethan architecture and theatrical style come alive. Everett has an eye for space and detail, and her most intriguing watercolors show contemporary artisans and construction workers using traditional building techniques. She also includes various archival images, like a 17th-century drawing of the Swan Theatre, and the table of contents from Shakespeare's first collected edition of plays. The prose is clear and peppered with interesting tidbits about Elizabethan life, and short appendixes list key dates in Shakespeare's life, his plays and other major London theaters of the time. Future architects and actors will love this thorough and appealing history, as will anyone interested in the Elizabethan age. Ages 8-up. (July)
Copyright 1999 Reed Business Information, Inc.
Copyright 1999 Reed Business Information, Inc.
From School Library Journal
Grade 5 Up-This entry about the recently reconstructed Globe Theatre features a series of watercolor sketches by Everett, artist of record for the 17-year project. Langley's text tells the story of the 16th-century Burbage family's efforts to build and establish the original Globe, while Everett's paintings of the progress of Sam Wanamaker's pursuit of a 20th-century rebuilding, combined with photographs of the project (such as a close-up of sections of the thatched roof) illuminate readers' understanding of the construction of both the old and the new theaters. Other photographs and drawings of recent productions put readers in the audience at a theater bright with richly colored tapestries, faux-marble pillars, and gold-leafed ceilings. A short appendix lists chronologies of Shakespeare's life, his plays, and the main London theaters of his time as well as information on the new Globe. Aliki's William Shakespeare & the Globe (HarperCollins, 1999) covers similar ground for a slightly younger audience. Langley's brief text, enhanced by well-chosen paintings and photos, is a solid and appealing introduction to Elizabethan theater for older readers.
Sally Margolis, Barton Public Library, VT
Copyright 1999 Reed Business Information, Inc.
Sally Margolis, Barton Public Library, VT
Copyright 1999 Reed Business Information, Inc.
