The Last Bard (HB)

The Last Bard is a wonderfully rich tale of the tragedies faced by Will Davenant as he discovers that he is the last living relative of William Shakespeare. He's faced his share of terrible times and the most recent event brings Will and his mum to his grandad's flat at Arden Heights, where they are having to clear out the flat following his estranged grandad's death. It is here that Will learns about his links to Shakespeare, finds an unusual friend or two, and discovers he can do things that he never thought were possible. All this, wonderfully interwoven with characters and plots straight from Shakespeare's plays.

Maz Evans has worked her magic again. She has taken a story of a young boy and some very difficult issues; she has offered them with them with immense sensitivity and raw truth. She has then continued to sprinkle the book with her trademark humour that keeps children wanting more and more from her writing, together with fabulous references to Shakespeare, engaging children with the characters in a way that only Maz Evans knows how.

The Last Bard is a true masterclass in how to engage young readers. The characterisation is clear and the storylines twist and turn, gently drawing the reader in to discover the next piece of the puzzle. Giving enough that young readers will be excited to read on because they think they might know what is going to happen next - only to fox them with another carefully placed twist, dollop of humour or emotional stir.

This is a must-have for all classrooms to foster an interest in the works of William Shakespeare in a modern and fresh way, as well as to open discussions about the many issues faced within the pages, including bereavement, loneliness, fear, courage and unity. 

320 pages / Reviewed by Donna Burkert, teacher

Suggested Reading Age 9+

When Will's father dies, he and his mother, Mary, have to move in with Will's Uncle Claude and his cousin, Jon. Treated like servants by Claude, who never loses an opportunity to remind them that they are only there because of his 'kindness', they are relieved to leave his home for a while whilst they sort out Will's grandfather's flat in a complex called Arden Heights. Here, Will meets Ani, another occupant, who is determined to save the flats from being sold off for redevelopment - and who sees Will as someone who can help her. Will also makes a curious discovery amongst his grandfather's possessions - a copy of The Complete Works of Shakespeare which releases some of the characters from the Bard's plays. With their 'help', can Will find the courage he needs to turn his life around?

The Last Bard' is bursting with humour, heart and lots of Shakespearean references, making it a fabulous read! Will is such a relatable character. His grief at the loss of his father combined with his new living conditions make it impossible not to empathise with him, making the reader really invested in his story. His relationship with his mother is beautifully portrayed and seeing her diminished and bullied by her brother, Will's Uncle Claude, only adds to his pain as he keeps secrets from her, attempting to lessen her burden.

There are plenty of poignant moments in the story, allowing for discussion and reflection, but these are balanced by a comedy of errors as his new Shakespearean friends get to work! Will is not the only brilliantly captured character! His mum, Mary, is just wonderful and each of the inhabitants of Arden Heights are well developed and believable. Uncle Claude and Jon are thoroughly nasty pieces of work, highlighting the complexity of some family relationships, yet others whom seem less likeable are given more depth as Will comes to know and understand them. Ani is a force of nature - outspoken, determined and courageous, she also has a more complex 'back story' which is gradually uncovered as the story progresses.

The Shakespearean element of the story is pure genius! Anyone familiar the Shakespeare's life and plays will delight in spotting the links and anyone who is not is sure to be tempted to find out all about them! Even the chapter headings and some names draw on his works! As Puck, Lady Macbeth, Yorick's skull and Juliet, the remaining characters trapped in his copy of 'The Complete Works' strive to help Will save Arden Heights, things go horribly and hysterically wrong and yet allow Will to quietly observe, listen and help in his own way, making sure 'all's well that end's well'!

There is so much to love in this story that I felt quite disappointed when it ended. Not because of a poor ending (quite the contrary!), but because I was enjoying it so much! Although this would make an excellent class story, sensitivity to the possible experiences of listeners is essential.

320 pages / Reviewed by Sue Wilsher, teacher

Suggested Reading Age 9+