Florence Short

This is a magnificent book which transports one into the daily life of the 16th Century. This is the story of a child, Hamnet, who dies of the plague after lying down beside his look-alike female twin, Judith, who is dying. They play at impersonating each other but this time it is no game. Hamnet tricks fate. Around this kernel of fiction, is exquisite writing. The reader experiences the sights, sounds, aromas, passions, ambitions, disappointments ,and ultimately life changing grief of the characters. Yes, this story takes off on our notion of Shakespeare, the death of his son, and his play “Hamlet” which was written during a time of plague. But, no, don’t confuse this with a non-fiction essay. It is much grander than an essay. I highly recommend listening to the audio book. The narrator, Ell Potter, enhances the story with her exquisite recording.