books
Ermahgerd Shakespeare retold in text speak
A set of books that convey the classic tales of Shakespeare via emoji-laden texts and social media updates has been drawing a strong response in recent days.
OMG Shakespeare from Random House Books for Young Readers includes two newly released titles – "srsly Hamlet" and "YOLO Juliet" – plus two others due out in early January – "Macbeth #killingit" and "A Midsummer Night #nofilter".
An excerpt from "srsly Hamlet" reads:
"Ophelia has updated her relationship status from 'In a relationship' to 'It's complicated'.
"Claudius has posted 11 new photos to the album: "Here We Go a-Wassailing! – with Queen Gertrude and 10 others.
"Queen Gertrude likes this.
"Hamlet: 'It's almost midnight. LET'S DO THIS. #FOMO'."
The stories, described as "the perfect gift for hip theatre lovers and teen", have been adapted by Courtney Carbone and Brett Wright, both children's book editors. And while the concept will no doubt appeal to some, feedback has been mitigated at best.
The Gawker Review of Books reacts, "To paraphrase the beloved poet and playwright: [inserts five smiling poop emoji]," while a much re-tweeted comment from popular Twitter user@FreddyAmazin reads, "Never wanted to burn a book before".
A recent review on Amazon of "YOLO Juliet," on the other hand, gives the title five stars and says, "the definition of a well-done parody!!"
"srsly Hamlet" and "YOLO Juliet" are out now in hardcover or ebook form. Look for "Macbeth #killingit" and "A Midsummer Night #nofilter" on January 5. – AFP/RelaxNews, June 16, 2015.
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