Really interesting. Gave a good insight into Shakespeares time although only a novel. Unusual angle as very little written about his family.

When new books are so hyped I’m often put off, mostly out of a stubborn unwillingness to be reading what everyone else is. However, when the rave reviews are still going strong a year after publication, and when the subject matter is Shakespearean, I had to give in. While the title of the book is Hamnet, the majority of the book is about his mother (Agnes) before his birth and in aftermath of his death. It is a beautifully written (particularly heartfelt when describing the loss of a child) and skilfully woven tapestry-like story, full of rich historical and human detail.

This is the special Waterstones book of the year edition, and what a gorgeous gift book it is! It begins with a young boy, Hamnet, stumbling down stairs, in his haste to find someone to look after his twin sister who has taken ill, and then moves both backwards in time, following the courtship of his parents, and forward into the repercussions of the illness. It is a subtle exploration of the life of a family, from their earlier lives, through to the later years of a marriage after bereavement and separation. Although it is set in Elizabethan England, the emphasis is more on the characters of the family, who are timeless and sympathetic. Maggie O'Farrell really breathes life into the wonderfully wise mother Agnes, her children Susanna, Judith and Hamnet, and their extended families. The father in the story is mostly absent, a bit player in the drama of his life, despite his real-life persona as arguably one of the greatest playwrights of all time. I loved how he is never referred to by name, but instead by his relation to the other family members and they (in particular, Agnes) are given a voice and an identity. This is a study of grief and love and the complicated bonds that surround us, providing a fascinating glimpse into the life of Shakespeare and his lost son who inspired the play 'Hamlet' and who lives again within the pages of this beautiful book.

I loved Hamnet! As someone who looks for historical fiction, I find that some books can be a bit too modern or not really catch the full vibe of the scene they are setting. This is the opposite of Hamnet, where the scene is set from the first page. I appreciated learning more about this story as I've seen Shakespeare and myths/rumours about his family referenced in other books. I also love Shakespeare so enjoyed the backstory and dips into his journey to the theatrical. It covers so many bases - from motherhood and family to relationships with nature and the power of legend. It's strong read.

Thoroughly enjoyed reading this book. Very well written, and gave an insight into life in England in the 16th Century. I found it absorbing and quite a "page turner". It is sad in parts but this did not distract from the story being told. A good read for a book club, with plenty of points for discussion.