As you like it

Synopsis

Shakespeare's romantic comedy takes place in a contemporary setting in which Asian characters reside in the forest of Ar-Den. Full-color images accompanied by a brief Shakespearean quote provide a delightful introduction to the multiple players who will encounter one another in the forest. These vibrant pages conclude with a spread of the final romantic attachments, leaving no doubt about the happy conclusion. Many aspects of this play work especially well in a manga format. The story is vividly brought to life as readers observe the emotional tension between Oliver and Orlando; the close relationship between Rosalind and Celia; and the high-action wrestling match between Charles and Orlando. Readers are made aware that this is an intelligent woman who knows her own mind. Using an entirely different style of graphic art for Jacques' famous "All the world's a stage" speech, Corin's account of the slaying of the deer and Oliver's retelling of Orlando's encounter with the lion help readers visualize these "stories within the story." Teens unfamiliar with the original may require supplemental material to appreciate this comedy fully because of its complicated plot, multiple characters, mistaken identities, and cross-dressing. Those who have prior exposure to it or who are willing to invest in some background preparation will enjoy this delightful re-creation of Shakespeare's exploration of the tractable nature of the human heart and the delights of love. (Source: School Library Journal)