Rediscovering "Shakespeare’s Secret": a Timeless Mystery for Young Readers

Book Cover designed by Donna Mark Published by Scholastic Inc. 2007

I can vividly recall my first time reading Shakespeare’s Secret in my childhood bedroom, feeling slightly resentful that I had to stay indoors to read rather than play outside with my brothers. Reading had always been a bit challenging, especially with vocabulary, so having to sit still with a new book felt doubly frustrating. But soon enough, I was hooked. Now, as I start sharing book recommendations for parents of young readers, Shakespeare’s Secret was among the first to come to mind—it’s one of those books that left an impression, one that lingered through my childhood and resurfaced with even more depth in adulthood.

This was one of the few books I reread several times, and I even have the book report I wrote on it. The mix of mystery, historical intrigue, and characters that felt familiar made it instantly relatable. Set in a modern-day neighborhood, the story felt close to home, and the vocabulary was straightforward enough to follow. If I stumbled on a new word, I could usually understand its meaning through context, or I’d ask my mom, who’d sometimes encourage me to look it up in our family dictionary. After reading, I’d wander around our house, imagining what mysteries could be hidden within its walls, inspired by the story’s mystery. My parents even had an old-fashioned candle holder that I’d carry around, pretending it had a historical secret all its own.

Now, reading it as an adult, Shakespeare’s Secret has even more to offer. The story’s historical references are subtle yet compelling, connecting figures like Anne Boleyn, Henry VIII, Elizabeth I, and William Shakespeare himself to the mystery. The book also includes nods to poets like Emily Dickinson and Dylan Thomas—references that I overlooked as a child but now fully appreciate. In fact, this book inspired me to memorize a few Emily Dickinson poems for a middle school speech competition, an experience that deepened my love for language and storytelling.

Broach cleverly uses history as a foundation for the mystery surrounding a lost diamond and the speculation over Shakespeare’s identity. She touches on events like Anne Boleyn’s speech at Tower Green, offering a glimpse into history that’s accessible for young readers. Just when the reader thinks they’ve cracked the mystery, Broach introduces an unexpected twist that reframes the title itself. It’s this inventive approach to storytelling that makes the book so captivating, as well as an ideal choice for young readers who enjoy unraveling puzzles and learning a bit of history along the way.

What also stands out in Shakespeare’s Secret is how Broach handles relatable social challenges, such as accidental bullying, feeling betrayed by a friend, awkward first impressions, and making new friends. These moments aren’t just glossed over but are thoughtfully explored, providing kids with a reminder that even difficult situations can be resolved with empathy and understanding.

One of the book’s most lasting qualities is its ability to spark curiosity. It encourages young readers to look beyond the surface, inviting them to think critically about history, literature, and the “what-ifs” of life. It’s a book that resonates long after the final page, prompting readers to question and imagine all the untold stories that might lie beneath the surface of everyday life.

Shakespeare's Secret is more than a mystery; it’s an adventure that invites kids to appreciate the hidden layers in stories and to approach life with curiosity and kindness. It’s a wonderful choice for children who love puzzles, history, and imagining what “might have happened.”

Title: Shakespeare's Secret

Author: Elise Broach

Published 2007 by Scholastic Inc.