This illustrated collection of poetic excerpts from the plays and sonnets of William Shakespeare is designed to be read and appreciated by young people. The 39 excerpts in the collection follow the "7 ages of man" pattern from childhood to old age. The collection's introduction by the famous Shakespearean scholar, A.L. Rowse, recounts Shakespeare's life and sheds light on his poetry--for example, Rowse points out that Shakespeare was a countryman who loved country folklore and was inspired by it, always noticing the flowers, animals, and birds around him. The collection concludes with a glossary of words and expressions used by Shakespeare in his works and whose meanings might not be understood today. (NKA)