Review Detail

Lisa Mantchev takes the warm familiarity of Shakespeare and other classic plays and presents them in a fresh, fantastical way through Théâtre Illuminata. She presents her tale with a quirky irreverence—one that I believe holds the potential to restore the interest of many a high school student who've been, regrettably, force-fed a curricular version of Shakespeare. Those with a theater background are likely to find this book all the more entertaining. For those less accustomed, bare with it. The structure may take a little getting used to.

Bertie makes for a saucy upstart of a heroine, as loyal to her friends as she is prone to haphazard experimentation (of the theatrical variety, of course). Despite her surreal surroundings, she is, at her heart, a strong-willed and relatable young woman. Though she doesn't know who she is or where she came from. Bertie spends much of her time torn between bravely striking out to find herself and clinging to the familiar--and to those she regards as her surrogate family.

The writing is sound, and the style and imagery are charming. Once I picked up the rules and immersed myself in the whimsical drama of the world, it became a most enjoyable ride. I look forward to the sequels!