What Is the Story of Romeo and Juliet?

Who HQ brings you the stories behind the most well-known characters of our time.

Discover the origins of one of literature's most famous couples, Romeo and Juliet, and their creator, William Shakespeare, in this fun and informative addition to the What Is the Story Of? series.

In 1597, Shakespeare debuted his newest play, a tragedy about a young Italian couple whose families were sworn enemies. Romeo and Juliet quickly became one of the most famous couples in literary history, and this play became one of Shakespeare's most performed shows. But did you know that much of Romeo and Juliet's story was adapted from tales by other writers? Learn all about how William Shakespeare's dynamic and romantic teenage duo sprouted from the Italian story of The Tragical History of Romeus and Juliet in 1562 and grew into adaptions like West Side Story and even Gnomeo & Juliet in this nonfiction book for young readers.

Max Bisantz is a children's book author and editor living in New York City. He is the author of What Is the Story of Romeo and Juliet? and a co-author of the book Who Was Selena?

David Malan is an accomplished artist and illustrator with over two decades of professional experience. He has worked with a wide range of clients, including some of the biggest names in the industry such as The Walt Disney Company, Harper Collins, Penguin Random House, the United States Mint, and The NFL. His work is known for its attention to detail and ability to capture the essence of the individual.