In these uncertain times, staying informed is crucial, but there's also a strong case to be made for embracing escapism. Fantasy and science fiction are sometimes dismissed as less substantive than other literature, but fans argue these genres tackle pressing social and political issues and are often rich in
culturally relevant themes. The best works in these genres stretch our imaginations while building complex societal metaphors that foster empathy and compassion for those unlike ourselves. In times of crisis, writers of fantasy and sci-fi create beautifully imperfect worlds very different from our own, yet which remind us of our shared humanity.
Escapist literature is also a necessary source of refuge. As J.R.R. Tolkien once said, “Why should a man be scorned if, finding himself in prison, he tries to get out and go home? Or if, when he cannot do so, he thinks and talks about other topics than jailers and prison-walls? The world outside has not become less real because the prisoner cannot see it.” Seeking escape, even temporarily, from an oppressive reality is natural and valuable—it offers freedom when we feel confined and inspiration when we feel hopeless.
While Shakespeare’s more fantastical plays can be wonderfully escapist on their own, here are a few recommendations for the next time you want to escape to a fantasy world with a Shakespearean twist:
The Raven Tower by Ann Leckie
Written by a New York Times bestselling author, The Raven Tower is a loose retelling of Hamlet that unfolds in the polytheistic world of Iraden, where gods play a direct role in human affairs. The narrative switches between first and second person in a way that invites skepticism about the reliability of the narrator. At times the reader is placed in the shoes of the protagonist, a trans man named Eolo. However, while we are spoken to by an ancient god, we are never let into Eolo’s mind, only getting to know him through the observations delivered to us. In a world where words shape reality, Eolo’s use of language to assert his identity as a trans man is a powerful undercurrent throughout the book, as he rejects the idea that a god could make him "who he is." One review describes the book's parallels to Hamlet, pointing to “a throne usurped by a jealous brother” and “a grief-mad heir bent on revenge,” adding, “It’s a story about gods meddling in human politics and people manipulating gods in return.” Readers who are interested in the power of language, religion, and queer identity will love this book!
The Stars Undying by Emery Robin
The Stars Undying is an epic space opera inspired by the historical lives of Cleopatra and Julius Caesar. Though this story could have existed without Shakespeare’s influence, it makes for a fruitful pairing when it comes to themes of love, power, and betrayal found in Shakespeare’s parallel historical plays. The novel follows Princess Altagracia as she battles to reclaim her home planet of Szayet after her twin sister violently seizes the throne. The Pearl, a computer program containing the immortal consciousness of Szayet’s god, adds an intriguing layer of technospirituality, a concept that is becoming increasingly relevant as we continue to contemplate the relationship between AI and human agency. Fans of space odysseys, complex world-building, family drama, and confidently queer leads are sure to find this read exciting and thought-provoking.
Wondrous Strange by Lesley Livingston
Wondrous Strange is the first novel in a YA fantasy trilogy following Kelley, a seventeen-year-old actress eager to play the role of Titania in A Midsummer Night’s Dream, only to discover that her interest in the fairy queen may be rooted in her otherworldly ancestry. A handsome stranger becomes her guide as she encounters the Faerie realm and uncovers the danger it may pose to the human world. Readers love this book for its faerie lore, sweet (but not too cheesy) romance, and plenty of Shakespeare references. Reviews suggest that it works well for a tween audience, but adults can enjoy it too, especially if they’re looking for a fun, youthful read with a bit of magic and adventure.
Chasing the Stars by Malorie Blackman
Drawing inspiration from Othello, Chasing the Stars is a YA romance novel set in space. Olivia is a teenager traveling back to Earth with her twin brother after a virus wipes out much of her family and her space ship’s crew. While traveling, they encounter Nathan, another teen with a similar backstory. The two instantly fall for each other, but rumors, deception, and distrust soon threaten to tear them apart. Reviews are mixed on this book, with some readers disappointed that the premise relies so heavily on what they deem an unrealistically instant love. However, others praise the novel for its action and character development, as well as the themes it draws from Shakespeare’s classic tragedy.
BONUS!
Romeo and/or Juliet by Ryan North
This book is not fantasy or sci-fi, but it does put a very interesting twist on the experience of reading Romeo and Juliet. If you have ever read the play and felt the desire to jump into the story, grab the characters by the shoulders, and force them to make a different choice, this book is for you! Romeo and/or Juliet is a “choosable path adventure” that allows the reader to take charge of the plot “with exciting choices, fun puzzles, secret surprises, terrible puns, and more than a billion possible storylines.” You can read the classic tale again and again, changing the fate of the characters and never getting bored or frustrated by the outcome. The description adds, “You can choose to play as Romeo or Juliet (obviously) but you can also play as both of them, or as Juliet's nurse, or, if you're good, you can even unlock a fourth playable character! That's right. We figured out how to have unlockable characters in books.” This is far too fun to not be included as a way to practice Shakespeare-inspired escapism!
Do you have a favorite Shakespeare-inspired fantasy or sci-fi novel? Let us know at info@myshakespeare.com!
