Louise Kulup’s “Bard Boy“ is an enchanting middle-grade novel that offers readers a unique mix of historical intrigue, supernatural elements, and the relatable experiences of a modern teenager. This engaging story takes young readers on an adventure that bridges the gap between the past and present, making history come alive in a way that is both entertaining and thought-provoking.
A School Trip with a Twist: Ben Jonson’s Encounter with the Past
The protagonist of “Bard Boy“ is 13-year-old Ben Jonson, a schoolboy from East London who has a knack for getting into trouble. Ben is not particularly excited about his school trip to Stratford-upon-Avon, expecting it to be just another boring excursion. However, things take an unexpected turn when Ben encounters Hamnet, the ghost of William Shakespeare’s son, during the trip.
Hamnet’s ghost is not just an ordinary specter; he is on a mission to find his father, the legendary playwright. Ben finds the lost folio beneath a flagstone at Shakespeare’s house. After this, Hamnet’s ghost attaches himself to Ben and goes back to Stratford London with him, he asks Ben to perform the ‘lost plays’ from the folio at a school Shakespeare competition, in the hope that it will make his father, William Shakespeare, return.
The story expertly combines elements of the supernatural with historical details, making the characters and events of Shakespeare’s time accessible and engaging for young readers. As Ben and Hamnet work together to solve the mystery, they form an unlikely friendship that transcends time and highlights the power of connection.
Real-Life Challenges Meet Supernatural Mysteries
While “Bard Boy“ is a captivating ghost story, it also delves into the everyday challenges faced by its young protagonist. Ben’s life is far from easy—he lives in a blended family, with his Malaysian mother while his father has remarried and started a new family. This situation leaves Ben feeling like he doesn’t quite belong in either household, a theme that resonates throughout the novel.
Louise Kulup uses Ben’s character to explore themes of identity, belonging, and the complexities of family life. Ben’s struggles at home are mirrored by the challenges he faces at school, where he often feels like an outsider. His encounter with Hamnet becomes a catalyst for self-discovery, as Ben learns more about who he is and what he values.
Kulup’s portrayal of Ben’s school life is both realistic and relatable, offering readers an authentic glimpse into the life of a teenager in modern-day England. The story also touches on Ben’s budding interest in Judith, a classmate who adds a touch of romance and intrigue to the narrative. Through these relationships, “Bard Boy“ explores the importance of friendship, family, and finding one’s place in the world.
The Journey from Inspiration to Publication
The creation of “Bard Boy“ began in 2016, shortly after Louise Kulup became a mother. The idea for the book came to her in the form of the title, which sparked her imagination and led to the development of the plot. Initially, Kulup envisioned Shakespeare’s ghost as the central character, but her research into the life of Shakespeare’s son, Hamnet, revealed a more compelling story.
The journey to bring “Bard Boy“ to life was not without its challenges. In early 2020, just as an agent was preparing to take the book to auction, the world was struck by the COVID-19 pandemic, which disrupted the publishing industry. Around the same time, Maggie O’Farrell’s “Hamnet“ was released, drawing attention to the same historical figure. Despite these setbacks, Kulup remained committed to her story, believing that “Bard Boy“ had a unique perspective to offer young readers.
The coincidence of both books focusing on Hamnet Shakespeare is a testament to the enduring appeal of Shakespeare’s life and the many untold stories surrounding it. Kulup’s dedication to bringing Hamnet’s story to a younger audience is evident in the depth and detail of “Bard Boy“ and her ability to make history relevant and exciting for today’s readers.
Why “Bard Boy” Should Be on Every Young Reader’s Bookshelf
“Bard Boy“ is more than just a tale of ghosts and history; it’s a story about the challenges of growing up, the complexities of family life, and the power of friendship. Louise Kulup has crafted a narrative that is both entertaining and meaningful, offering young readers a chance to connect with history in a way that feels fresh and relevant.
Through Ben Jonson’s adventure, readers are invited to explore themes of identity, belonging, and the importance of helping others. The story’s setting, which moves between the historical richness of Stratford-upon-Avon and the everyday life of a London schoolboy, adds layers of depth and intrigue that will keep readers engaged from start to finish.
For those who enjoy stories that combine adventure, history, and heartfelt emotion, “Bard Boy“ is a must-read. It’s a book that will stay with you long after you’ve finished, reminding you that the past is always with us, shaping our present and future in ways we might not expect. Kulup continues to write stories that inspire and entertain, living in Essex with her husband and two children, and bringing her unique voice to young readers everywhere.
