Eyes Like Stars Theatre Illuminata, Act I
Beatrice Shakespeare Smith, AKA Bertie, is a teen girl who has been raised in a magical theater, and is suddenly faced with a serious challenge: prove herself useful or be kicked out of the theater. Bertie has the support of all the cast as they have grown to love her, as will readers likely do as well. She is a bit on the unconventional side (blue hair) and has a spunky personality that goes well with her hair color choice. She devises a plan to direct Hamlet in a never before seen adaptation. She thinks surely the manager will see this grand plan of hers will prove her usefulness.
This is one of the most creative stories I have read in a while. The backdrop of the stage is enchanting. Theater lovers will go gaga over this stage-infused novel. And the writing should sweep you off your feet. Here’s a sample:
Bertie closed her eyes, inhaling the scent of sunrise and spring. Something darkly tempting and longing-filled bloomed under the sun-warmed grass and damp earth. She opened her eyes, wanting to ask a question she didn’t yet know, but before she could find the words, Ariel turned away. “Are you coming?” he asked over his shoulder. Bertie hesitated only a second before falling in step with him, chin up, head high, taking care to look unconcerned about the silence that hung between them like a curtain drawn over their past.
Though I am no expert on the theater, I would surmise by the story that the author is, and she does a grand job entrancing readers with her wit and her knowledge. There are but a few things I would mention – Bertie smokes and uses some colorful language – she can have a bit of a temper! Also, there is a kissing scene that is referred to as “tonsil hockey”.
Overall, I felt the ingenuity of the book makes this one not to miss. I particularly enjoyed the camaraderie between Bertie and her friends the fairies and Nate the pirate. They care for each other and as friends do, the supporting characters come to Bertie’s aid when she needs it the most.
I think the young adult audience will enjoy this book, not only for its originality and vibrant characters but also for the taste of the theater. Do include this one on your summer must read list!
Author’s website
Here are the other bloggers on this book tour:
The 160 Acre Woods, A Christian Worldview of Fiction, A Patchwork of Books, Abby the Librarian, All About Children’s Books, And Another Book Read, Becky’s Book Reviews, Dolce Bellezza, Fireside Musings, The Friendly Book Nook, Homeschool Book Buzz, Homespun Light, Hyperbole, KidzBookBuzz.com, Never Jam Today, Reading is My Superpower, Through a Child’s Eyes
Kathy, I read … in an interview or a bio, I forget where … that Ms. Mantchev has been involved in theater. I think she's written some, acted, and directed. Definitely she brings that background to the novel.
Bertie was an interesting character, but I never fell in love with her. Or with the theater. I wanted to, but …
Becky
Thanks Becky for your comment and adding the background about the author. She does do a good job weaving her experience into the storyline.
Thanks, Kathy! And Becky. This is the way of characters, isn't? Just as with real people. We don't all like the same types. :)