Age Group: 9 - 12 Years, 12+ Years

Description:

A risky bargain, a daring rescue, and the famous test of mercy await young readers in this beautifully abridged and illustrated retelling of Shakespeare's gripping drama, brought to life by Wonder House Books' Shakespeare's Greatest Stories series. When the kind-hearted merchant Antonio borrows money to help his dear friend Bassanio woo the clever and wealthy Portia, he agrees to a chilling condition from the moneylender Shylock — if the loan is unpaid, Shylock can claim a pound of Antonio's own flesh. As Antonio's ships are lost at sea, the terrifying bond comes due, and only a sharp-witted disguise and a brilliant courtroom twist by Portia herself can save his life. With simplified language and lively illustrations throughout, this powerful introduction to the Bard explores friendship, loyalty, justice, and the timeless question of mercy versus the letter of the law.