No Shakespeare Allowed
by Robin D. Jones
Atheneum Books for Young Readers 1989
Easy read — content targets 6th grade and up
Reading level 4.9 (4th grade) but themes aimed at ages 11+
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Genre
Themes
- identity
- family expectations
- independence
- friendship
- self-discovery
- arts and theater
- father–daughter relationships
- humor
About this book
Fourteen-year-old Portia has grown up in the wings of her town’s Shakespeare festival, thanks to her determined director dad—but she wants nothing to do with the stage. As summer rehearsals ramp up, Portia scrambles to prove she’s not an actress and to carve out a life that’s truly her own. With humor and heart, the story explores family expectations, first steps toward independence, and finding your voice. Perfect for readers who enjoy realistic stories about the arts and complicated (but loving) parent–child relationships.
Setting: a small American town built around its annual Shakespeare festival, contemporary (late 20th century)
Frequently Asked Questions
Is No Shakespeare Allowed right for my child?
It depends — here's what to consider for No Shakespeare Allowed. The reading level is AR 4.9, which is typical for 4th grade. The interest level is rated Middle Grades Plus (6+), meaning the themes and content are designed for ages 11+ (6th grade and up). Themes include identity, family expectations, independence.
How long does it take to read No Shakespeare Allowed?
At a typical 4th grade reading pace, No Shakespeare Allowed takes around 5.5h to finish. The book has 50,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does No Shakespeare Allowed have an AR quiz?
Yes — No Shakespeare Allowed has an AR quiz available, worth 6 points. Your child will need to take and pass the quiz through their school's Accelerated Reader program to earn credit. The quiz is typically 5–20 multiple choice questions about plot, characters, and setting.
What grade level is No Shakespeare Allowed?
No Shakespeare Allowed has an AR reading level of 4.9, which places it at a 4th grade reading difficulty. The interest level is rated Middle Grades Plus (6+) — this reflects the age-appropriateness of the content and themes, not just the reading difficulty. A strong younger reader may handle the words fine while the themes are aimed at an older audience, or vice versa.