Macbeth (No Fear Shakespeare)

Was told about these “No Fear Shakespeare” books by an English teacher. I bought two, to sit with my Y9 twin boys recently to read in conjunction with watching The Globe Theatre production of Macbeth streaming on YouTube. My boys are actually enjoying Shakespeare! Broken down into a couple of scenes per day (boys’ concentration is short)! We read the new English translation then watch those scenes. Just wow. Really pleased with our progress so far ahead of them studying Macbeth in Y10.

When I searched through the many different publications of the Macbeth play, I particularly wanted one which not only showed the original text but also gave an easy-to-understanding modern-day English translation or explanation. I noted there were over 2,500 reviews. Some reviewers mentioning the book contained Modern English text side-by-side with Old English text; another review stated the book included simplified modern day translation. But when I received the product, I saw nothing of the sort - just a complete text of the play with some additional comments reference character movements or scene depictions. Had the reviews been listed under the wrong product, I thought ? Where were these side-by-side translations ? In hindsight, a quick check of the contents using the "Look Inside" icon would have shown me what I was to expect to receive. Needless to say, I have returned the book and ordered another product.

This is a fantastic book! My son has Dyslexia and Dysgraphia, so can struggle with difficult texts and books, like Macbeth. This means as he is following the story, it gives a clear interpretation directly beside. It's so perfect and I honestly believe these should be given out to help children ar school. It's definitely going to make my sons level of understanding a whole lot easier and higher level.

Bought as a gift for the 15 year old son of a friend who was struggling with Shakespeare studies during online lockdown learning. These guides are so helpful with their layout of original text, modern translation and helpful side notes. He has found his invaluable, and was in a much better position returning to school and preparing for mock GCSEs.

Great book, breaks the text down into layman' terms so ideal for getting a grasp of Shakespeare without having to contend with the language as the original is printed alongside the simplified version on the same page. Great for GCSE students.