The Lost Letters bring Shakespeare's world to life. It shows how experiences in his life influenced and brought colour to his works. Dotted with references to Shakespeare's plays, it is like reading about an old and familiar friend: you recognise people, phrases and events which, in turn, inspired characters, speeches and scenes or even, in the case of his visit to Denmark, a whole play.
When Mr. Perkin advises young Shakespeare on the art of acting he starts with the words "All the WORLD...is a stage...William. Every man...a player" - words which must have burned themselves into Shakespeare's brain as he was to adapt them years later into Jacques' speech inAs You Like It. Words which are still in common use today.
Terry Tamminen explores his own journey to Shakespeare in the introduction he writes to each letter as well as providing a quick explanation of the context of each letter. Fact or fiction, it is a good read and most entertaining. I am eagerly anticipating the next book.
Sarah Ferguson, Duchess of York
Terry Tamminen has unearthed an extraordinary resource that will challenge scholars and fascinate lovers of the works of William Shakespeare in equal measure.
The Right Honorable Lord Barker of Battle PC
Far from leaving Shakespeare on that pedestal that many keep him on (away from the common man, and towards the gods), Lost Letters shows us the story of a young artist who is trying to make a life for himself. That he is a mortal man who experiences sadness, triumph, and the occasional stomach pain. We are able to see the man who would become humanities greatest writer as he figures this out for himself.
Moreover, by making comparisons of his own life to Shakespeare's, author Terry Tamminen gives us (the reader) permission to do the same. By drawing these parallels, we are given the chance to strive to our own greatness, just as Shakespeare did.
This book not only has the power to change history, but also one's destiny.
Ned Record, Creative Director, Hollywood Shakespeare
Are Shakespeare's Lost Letters historical fact or historical fiction? I care not, as Terry Tamminen has written with a passion and a dedication that o'erleaps itself and served up a delicious feast for all those that love the Bard of Avon. A great work by a great writer!
Ed Begley Jr.
Historically accurate, funny, gritty, bawdy, and engaging; I will be very surprised if there's an English lit course in the world that won't use it as a text-and millions will read it for fun. Shakespeare has never been this approachable.
John Cronin, English teacher
I was a bit intimidated by all the old English text, but when I started reading it, I really got into following the Bard on his "Elizabethan Road Trip." The prologue is a brilliant start and really draws the reader in. The annotation is critical in quickly understanding the meaning of old English terminology. I can't wait to read more about how he ascends in recognition.
Robb Rice, Founder, Malibu Summerstage Theatre
