Novel version of romeo and juliet...?

Question

okay, so i REALLY want to read Romeo and Juliet. The story line sounds just like something i would fall in love with, except i cannot stand reading plays. so i figure since it's been around for a long time someone was bound to make it into a novel, right? i don't want some corny crappy piece of writing, i want to get the full effect [or as close as i can get without my brain going catatonic by reading the play.]

can you help me?

thanks in advance :D

Answer 1

Try "Romiette and Julio" by Sharon Draper-- a young-adult novel based on the Shakespearean play.  This modern-day pair of lovers (an African-American girl and hispanic boy) face gang violence and parental disapproval.  Sound familiar?  Of course, I would never discourage you from reading the real "Romeo and Juliet".  You could always listen to it on audio CD or see one of the film adaptations.

Answer 2

I don't know if you remember, but there was a show called "Wishbone" several years ago, and this dog and his owners used to "go into" classic books and stuff. Well, I used to have a Wishbone Classics version of Romeo and Juliet, and it was pretty great.

Answer 3

Well, "Romeo and Juliet" is of course your best resource, but try renting "West Side Story". Same story, more modern setting and language. Plus great music!

Answer 4

umm... just read the play, its not that long in the full at all, i dont think anyone has ever just rewrittin it.