So when we heard that Nick Craine was illustrating a new graphic novel about William Shakespeare's life, we thought here's a way to get all age groups interested in Shakespeare, even if critics can't figure out what songs by The Clash have to do with the Bard. Craine's idea to create a book that would detail the playwright's life from his childhood home in Stratford-upon-Avon to his time working in London is an excellent way to reach out to those who may not consider themselves fans of the Bard.

"I wanted to identify William as a punk rocker and as someone on the fringes," Craine said this week. Some academics and theatre critics may cringe at such words. The entire Shakespeare festival being staged in the city until May has elements of the unusual and unconventional. But there is something for everyone and Craine's book will appeal to many.

Labels: graphic novels, people, shakespeare