The Shakespeare Stories Every Child Should Know

Shakespeare wrote 37 plays, but which ones are best for introducing children to his world? At Cuentautor, we've selected and adapted 14 works organized by age, so every child finds the perfect story.

For little ones (ages 3-5)

A Midsummer Night's Dream is the perfect gateway to Shakespeare. Mischievous fairies, a magic love potion, and a man with a donkey's head — pure delight for young imaginations. Also try Puck's Mischief in the Magic Forest for an even simpler version.

For growing readers (ages 6-8)

Twelfth Night — A shipwreck, a girl disguised as a boy, and the funniest love triangle in literature. "If music be the food of love, play on!"

The Taming of the Shrew — Fierce Katherina and witty Petruchio discover they're kindred spirits.

Much Ado About Nothing — Beatrice and Benedick's battle of wits is Shakespeare at his funniest.

The Winter's Tale — Features Shakespeare's most famous stage direction: "Exit, pursued by a bear."

As You Like It, King Lear, and The Tempest round out a wonderful selection for this age group.

For pre-teens (ages 9-11)

Hamlet — The most famous play ever written. A prince stages a play to catch a murderer — theatre within theatre!

Macbeth — Three witches, a walking forest, and "Out, damned spot!" Images children never forget.

Othello — "Beware the green-eyed monster — jealousy!" A powerful lesson about trust.

The Merchant of Venice — Portia's mercy speech is Shakespeare's most brilliant legal argument.

Romeo and Juliet — The world's most famous love story.

Why Shakespeare for children?

Shakespeare invented over 1,700 words still used today. His stories have inspired Disney films, Japanese anime, and children's books worldwide. All our adaptations include professional audio narration, original illustrations, and are available in 17 languages.

Explore the complete Shakespeare collection.

Read also: 5 Life Lessons from Shakespeare · Who Was Shakespeare?