This book is a fantastic introduction to academic writing. Even though I'm studying for my master's now, I felt like Smith guided me through Shakespeare's plays carefully whilst gently pushing me towards points to consider. It's perfect for anyone planning on studying English Literature in further studies or who is interested in Shakespeare.

But, that's not entirely true - because Smith makes Shakespeare more approachable. Even those people who have found Shakespeare to be complex and unobtainable should pick this book up. Plays that, until now, have confused me or seemed a little too smart suddenly seemed to make sense. Smith's colloquial language engaged me, I saw her as a friend sharing a passion rather than an academic lecturing about Shakespeare.

This is Shakespeare certainly achieved its goal: even before I had finished I begged my girlfriend to let us watch Macbeth and Hamlet. Right now, I'm considering picking up some of the plays I've not yet read or attempted to read and gave up on. I can't recommend this one enough, no matter who you are - a Shakespeare fan, a hater, a teacher, an academic, a student - this book is essential.