Shakespeare for Squirrels: A Novel

Shakespeare for Squirrels is Christopher Moore’s latest madcap adventure for his infamous character, Pocket, previously employed in Fool and Serpent of Venice. As in these other novels, Moore inserts his egotistical and raucous character into the beloved works of the Bard, thereby creating irreverent versions of the plays as seen through Pocket’s “outsider” viewpoint. For the uninitiated, Moore’s hijacking of the plot can at first be unsettling, but those who have experienced his skill with satire will recognize his true respect and knowledge of the source material. This iteration takes on one of Shakespeare’s most accessible works, A Midsummer Night’s Dream, which already has a fair share of fantasy and bawdy humor. Moore amps up the action by adding an infiltrating Pocket to the cast list—hijacking the well-known events with his trademark twisted and witty commentary. Pocket, a roving Fool, arrives on the scene after being shipwrecked along with his apprentice and a monkey (picked up in from the earlier novels). After being resuscitated by fairies, Pocket is drawn into an intricate drama that involves, among other things: a group of inept amateur actors, pompous mythical beings, unnatural love triangles, dizzying court intrigue, silly revenge plots and faulty magic. Moore’s also weaves in a mystery for good measure. Pocket needs to navigate within the already frantic events to discover who killed Puck (a central mischief maker from the original play) and in order to set his imprisoned apprentice free. Moore, in typical form, tosses in some absurd details and complications, the addition of squirrels being only one such example. Shakespeare for Squirrels has moments that may confuse some readers, with character names that closely resemble each other and an assumption of knowledge that not all may possess. Those who persevere will be rewarded by receiving clarification in a concluding monologue from Rumor, a recurring addition who serves as a “summation/omniscient” character. Truly hilarious at times and cringeworthy at others, Moore demonstrates once again his deserved reputation as an accomplished satirist. Re-reading A Midsummer Night’s Dream and/or the first two books in the Pocket series is highly recommended before starting this new release. While most readers will find much to enjoy in Moore’s latest cheeky dip into our sacred literary canon, longtime fans and those well-versed in the original Shakespeare will derive the greatest pleasure. Thanks to the author, William Morrow and Edelweiss for an advance copy of this book in exchange for an unbiased review.

Wholly derivative, which worked well with Biff, Be warned – the language is rough and crude (in all the best ways). The action ranges from detective-like to wholly raving madcap, with some steam and questionable coupling (and tripling) added in the mix. It’s not a story for everyone – but if you’ve never tried a book by Moore, this is one that requires no real ‘knowledge’ of earlier works, only the openness to go on a spinning teacup ride that is mixed up with a roller coaster and a comedy show. If that intrigues, this book is for you! I received an eArc copy of the title from the publisher via Edelweiss for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.

I will read anything Christopher Moore writes. I like his character collaboration and the off the wall "additions".