The third book in the Hogarth Shakespeare series, a major global initiative the Guardian calls “The great rewriting project of the 21st century” 
Shakespeare’s controversial comedy “The Taming of the Shrew” sees wilful, independent Katherina transformed into a willing, obedient wife to Petruchio. It is one of Shakespeare’s most re-visited plays, with adaptations including “Kiss Me Kate,” and “10 Things I Hate About You.” 
Anne Tyler’s delightful “Vinegar Girl” features Kate, a socially awkward young woman, adored by the preschool children she teaches but misunderstood by her peers. Her father is a scientific genius, but not so great on emotions. About to lose his (equally genius, equally socially inept) research assistant, Pyotr Cherbakov, because of visa problems, and desperate to save the project that is his life’s work, he comes up with a plan: Kate will marry Pyotr who will then be able to stay in the country and finish the project. The plan sounds perfect, except for one small hitch: Kate.”

Review:

This is an interesting, humorous take on Shakespeare’s The Taming of the Shrew.

It is a quick, easy read full of dry wit, eccentric characters, and oddball situations.

The main character, Kate, is lovable, direct, and asocial. And the supporting characters are unique, zany, and vivid.

I think, overall, Anne Tyler has done a really good job at taking a true classic, and re-telling it in a fresh, sometimes laugh-out-loud funny way, with beautiful writing and remarkable description.

This novel is available now.

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