Shakespeare's gift for writing tragedies was powerful indeed. His ability to create epic tragic characters-think Hamlet, Lear, and the star-crossed Romeo and Juliet-and scenarios is virtually unrivalled. Readers examine the Bard's major tragedies and their significance, and touch upon the state of theatre and dramatic performance in Shakespeare's England for good measure.

In Shakespeare's time, the term "comedy" did not necessarily denote something funny or amusing. Rather, through such plays such as A Midsummer Night's Dream and The Merchant of Venice, the playwright examines other defining characteristics of comedic drama—the social interactions of common folks and a focus on the contradictions inherent in everyday life. Readers explore the major themes of Shakespearean comedies, which have enchanted readers and theater-goers alike for centuries.

Big or Little? (tumblebook)flash story Big or Little? Sometimes Matthew feels little and sometimes Matthew feels B I G!! This classic story from acclaimed children's writer, Kathy Stinson, will delight young children, and show them that, big or little, they're all special in their own way! Keywords: opposites, ages and stages

Bebe Goes Shopping Bebe Goes Shopping A quick trip to the supermercado? Not with Bebe in the shopping cart. Snatching the grocery list and picking out chocolate-covered pickles, he's not being very helpful. Just as Mama is ready to throw up her manos, she gives sweet Bebe a box of animal cookies. A dulce at last! He finds a camel, nibbles on a giraffe . . . eats an oso. Then they're off to the checkout line, smiling all the way. Susan Middleton Elya's tender yet feisty story and Steven Salerno's vivid art are perfect for budding English- and Spanish-speaking readers. Includes a glossary of Spanish words.

Art's Supplies (tumblebooks) flash story Art's Supplies "It’s not my fault!” Art declared. “My supplies have a mind of their own!” In this delightful tale of the power of the imagination, Art’s supplies come to life in the studio, creating mayhem and magic—and art! Pastels, pencils and paints, crayons, brushes and markers, everything gets in on the act of creating a mess-terpiece of fun. Chris Tougas’ brilliant illustrations and clever text explore the essence of the creative process in a way that children will understand.