The Story of a Young Actor in Shakespeare’s London

Written and Illustrated by Christina Balit

At a time when boy actors played female roles, a street orphan becomes a Globe Theatre star in ‘A Midsummer Night’s Dream’

Jack is an orphan earning a few pennies as a street singer. Snatched up by a greedy chorus master, he sings before Queen Elizabeth I, where his beautiful voice attracts William Shakespeare. At the Globe Theatre Jack learns all the arts of staging and performing. And when the great playwright needs a special boy to play Queen Titania in his magical new play, A Midsummer Night’s Dream, will Jack be up to the challenge?

This book brings the whole scene of Shakespeare’s England come alive. Through the eyes of a young boy, Jack who starts work at the Globe Theatre and then goes to sing as Queen Titania in Midsummer Night’s Dream. When Queen Elizabeth said, “Deliver this Jack, to the Globe” he was on his way to a new chance in life.

A wonderful introduction to Shakespeare and the time of Queen Elizabeth the First.

Stunningly written and illustrated by Christina Balit, who has written and illustrated over 20 books for children. She uses a variety of materials including water colours, gouache and gold inks.

Otter-Barry Books are the publishers of this beautiful and engaging book for all ages.

Sue Martin Children’s Literacy Specialist