Gary Blackwood

Gary Blackwood is an American author primarily known for historical fiction and children's literature, with his most acclaimed work being The Shakespeare Stealer trilogy. His writing career began early, selling his first story at age nineteen, and he has since published numerous works across multiple genres. The Shakespeare Stealer series, published between 1998 and 2003, established Blackwood's reputation in young adult historical fiction. These novels follow an orphan named Widge who becomes involved with Shakespeare's theater company, earning critical acclaim and several literary awards. Blackwood has expanded his body of work to include other historical novels such as Around the World in 100 Days, which received recognition from the Smithsonian and Kirkus Book Reviews. In recent years, he ventured into adult fiction with Victorian mysteries featuring detective Charles Frederick Field. Beyond novels, Blackwood has achieved success as a playwright, with his theatrical adaptation of The Shakespeare Stealer being commissioned by the Kennedy Center and performed at various professional theaters across the United States. His work consistently demonstrates a strong focus on historical settings and theatrical themes.

Readers appreciate Blackwood's historical fiction for young adults, particularly his Shakespeare Stealer series. Reviews highlight his ability to weave educational content into engaging plots without becoming didactic. Multiple readers note his accurate portrayal of Elizabethan theater and society. Readers praise: - Fast-paced action that appeals to reluctant readers - Historical authenticity - Character development - Clean content suitable for middle grade students Common criticisms: - Some find the dialogue too modern - Secondary characters can lack depth - Later books in series lose momentum Ratings: The Shakespeare Stealer (Book 1) - Goodreads: 3.9/5 (6,800+ ratings) - Amazon: 4.5/5 (280+ reviews) Shakespeare's Scribe (Book 2) - Goodreads: 3.8/5 (2,000+ ratings) - Amazon: 4.4/5 (90+ reviews) Several teachers report success using his books to introduce students to Shakespeare and Elizabethan history, citing high engagement levels from both advanced and struggling readers.

The Shakespeare Stealer An orphan boy in Elizabethan England is trained in shorthand and sent to steal Shakespeare's latest play by copying it during performances at the Globe Theatre.

The Dying Sun Set in a post-apocalyptic world, this novel follows survivors dealing with the consequences of a gradually dimming sun that threatens human existence.

Shakespeare's Scribe The second book in The Shakespeare Stealer series continues Widge's story as he serves as a scribe for Shakespeare's company while dealing with a mysterious plague and his own past.

Shakespeare's Spy The final installment of the trilogy sees Widge uncovering treachery within the Lord Chamberlain's Men while trying to establish his own identity as an actor.

Around the World in 100 Days Harry Fogg, son of Phileas Fogg, attempts to circle the globe by motor car in 1891 to win a high-stakes wager.

The Year of the Hangman In an alternate 1777 where the American Revolution failed, a young British boy becomes involved in a rebel conspiracy against King George III.

Second Sight A Victorian-era mystery featuring real-life detective Charles Frederick Field investigating supernatural occurrences in London.

Avi Creates historical fiction for young readers that centers on themes of identity and deception, including The True Confessions of Charlotte Doyle and The Fighting Ground. His work features young protagonists navigating complex historical situations with detailed period accuracy.

Karen Cushman Specializes in medieval and Renaissance-era historical fiction for young readers, with works like Catherine, Called Birdy and The Midwife's Apprentice. Her books focus on young characters discovering their place in historical settings while dealing with period-specific challenges.

Christopher Paul Curtis Writes historical fiction that combines serious historical themes with elements of humor and adventure, including The Watsons Go to Birmingham-1963 and Bud, Not Buddy. His work features young protagonists facing historical events through personal narratives.

Richard Peck Creates historical fiction set in various time periods, including A Long Way from Chicago and Fair Weather. His work combines historical accuracy with coming-of-age stories that often incorporate family relationships and humor.

Elizabeth George Speare Wrote historical fiction focusing on Colonial American settings, including The Witch of Blackbird Pond and The Sign of the Beaver. Her books feature young protagonists adapting to new environments while dealing with historical conflicts and cultural differences.