Alphabet Publishing

Raves and Reviews

“Paul Murray has brilliantly adapted Shakespeare’s plays to expose them to an entire generation who might otherwise roll their eyes and miss out. These playful but entirely respectful adaptations stay true to the soul of the original plays while making them easily accessible to the uninitiated. I wish these books had been available when I was young.”
— Dean Devlin, Co-writer/producer Godzilla, Independence Day, Owner Electric Entertainment

“What I would have given for Paul Murray’s works way back when I was a kid.  What Murray has done brilliantly is make Shakespeare approachable for young people (and the young at heart).”
— Jonathan Glassner Producer, Director, Co-creator Stargate SG-1, The Outer Limits, CSI Miami, CSI: NY, The Ark

“Paul Murray’s adaptation of Twelfth Night is a student-friendly script that will quickly engage a cast whatever their level of experience. This vibrant and energetic version of the original will really help cast members to acquire context of the overall story and gain a good understanding of the central characters. This version will quickly help students to connect to the playwright…. As an introduction to Shakespeare, you will not have time to worry about being in a Renaissance Comedy, you simply need to enjoy being in a really funny production.”
— Gavin McDougall

“Paul Murray has brilliantly adapted Shakespeare’s plays to expose them to an entire generation who might otherwise roll their eyes and miss out. These playful but entirely respectful adaptations stay true to the soul of the original plays while making them easily accessible to the uninitiated. I wish these books had been available when I was young.”
— Dean Devlin, Co-writer/producer Godzilla, Independence Day, Owner Electric Entertainment

I love Paul Murray’s Hamlet. Like the original Bard himself he’s a true wordsmith, translating with humour for a modern audience. It’s pure Shakespeare, fun, clever and accessible. Shakespeare done how Shakespeare intended for the masses!
— Matthew McNulty, Actor The Terror, Domina, Cleaning Up

In this fresh and lively adaptation of Hamlet, Paul Murray offers an ingenious re-imagining of the story told in one-fleeting-scene-after-another, packed with clever wordplay and wittily rhyming verse (often truly hilarious), and peopled by all the very recognizable characters who have embodied the story for over 400 years. Murray has crafted a piece that is playful and fun while never turning away from the drama that is at the heart of Shakespeare’s play. It is a unique work, delightfully theatrical, and well-suited for production both in the classroom and on stage.
— John Sipes, Professor Emeritus, University of Tennessee, Former Artistic Director, Illinois Shakespeare Festival

“Silly Shakespeare for Students by Paul Murray offers a refreshing and hilarious twist on classic Shakespearean tales, making it a delightful read for both devoted fans and newcomers alike. With sharp wit and inventive reinterpretations, Murray brings the Bard’s iconic characters and stories to life in an accessible and entertaining way that invites readers of all backgrounds to join in the fun. The charm of Silly Shakespeare lies in its perfect balance between respect for the original works and lighthearted, irreverent humor, which brings a fresh perspective to familiar tales.
— Adam Stewart, Founder and Artistic Director Prague Youth Theatre