A Heartfelt Ode to Brothers and Shakespeare: My Review of Werewolf Hamlet
When I first stumbled upon Werewolf Hamlet by K.J. Howes, the quirky title and intriguing summary drew me in instantly. As a lover of both Shakespeare and heartfelt family stories, I couldn’t resist diving into this modern retelling of a classic tale rooted in sibling dynamics. This novel promises a unique blend of humor, heartbreak, and creativity, and I’m thrilled to share my thoughts!
At its core, Werewolf Hamlet shines a light on the struggles of family relationships, particularly the bond between brothers. Eleven-year-old Angus Gettlefinger is an endearing narrator who is grappling with the heartbreaking changes in his seventeen-year-old brother, Liam. As Liam spirals into rebellion—sneaking out, drinking, and exhibiting the erratic behaviors of a “werewolf”—Angus’s longing for their bygone closeness is palpable. I found myself rooting for Angus as he attempts to salvage not only his brother but the family dynamic that is slowly unraveling due to financial struggles and Liam’s chaotic choices.
The writing style astounded me, capturing the tenderness of childhood while threading in clever Shakespearean insults that offered both amusement and context. Lines such as, “I know the real Liam is in there. Let him out!” stirred deep emotions, making me tear up as I felt Angus’s desperation and longing. The narrative is punctuated with Angus’s love for the theater and Hollywood’s silent film icons, which adds a delightful layer of whimsy. It’s these moments that made me chuckle and reflect on my own childhood imaginations and aspirations.
One of the standout features of Werewolf Hamlet is the authentic portrayal of family struggles. The interwoven themes of loyalty and resilience struck a chord with me. Angus’s sisters, Hannah and Sidney, are well-crafted characters who enrich the family’s story, bearing the weight of their own fears while trying to keep the family intact. The inclusion of their beloved dog, Renfield, is a subtle yet powerful reminder of unconditional love and loyalty that transcends the many challenges they face. It made me realize how pets can be anchors when family life feels overwhelming.
That said, while I adored the heartwarming moments, I felt the ending wrapped things up a bit too neatly. A touch of realism can sometimes add depth, especially when dealing with complex issues like addiction. The Three Cs—“You didn’t cause it. You can’t control it. And you can’t cure it”—serve as a guiding philosophy for the Gettlefinger family, offering comfort and hope, but I wish Liam’s own struggles had been delved into with a bit more nuance. A deeper exploration of his character would have enriched the narrative even further.
Overall, Werewolf Hamlet is a resonant middle-grade read that beautifully balances humor with heavier themes. It feels like a conversation between friends, inviting readers to reflect on their relationships while finding solace in shared experiences. I’d recommend this book to young readers grappling with family dynamics, as well as to anyone who appreciates stories about love, loss, and the complexity of sibling bonds.
As I closed the last page, I felt a mix of nostalgia and warmth—a reminder of our own familial bonds and the lengths we’ll go to protect and understand those we love. K.J. Howes dexterously weaves a tale that is both entertaining and thought-provoking, making Werewolf Hamlet a memorable addition to any bookshelf.✨