German author Mirjam Pressler has won many awards in her native country, and after reading the translation from German (by Brian Murdoch) of this book for teenagers, based on Shakespeare's The Merchant of Venice, it is easy to see why. Set in 1568, it evokes the period with crackling historical accuracy, and deals with universal and timeless themes, from first love and teenage rebellion, to family loyalty, racism and prejudice. Cleverly written, using many Shakespearean plot devices such as girls disguised as boys, and direct quotations from the play, it vividly brings to life the Bard's characters in full-rounded glory, especially the vain and selfish teenager Jessica, and her infamous father, Shylock.