Bob LaRosa’s “Play Along (With Me),” released on February 8, 2023, is an entertaining collection of short plays suitable for young readers and drama enthusiasts. This paperback debut features 25 ten-minute plays, all starring a kitten named Stephanie in a series of hilarious and unique adventures.
The book is designed for an audience aged 12 and up, making it ideal for middle school students and beyond. Its versatility allows for use in various settings, from drama classes and summer camps to impromptu performances on rainy days at home.
One of the book’s standout features is its informal nature. LaRosa emphasizes that no stage, props, or costumes are required, making these skits accessible and easy to perform in any setting. This approach makes the plays more fun and less intimidating for young performers.
The collection serves multiple purposes. While entertaining, it also aims to strengthen children’s public speaking confidence and skills. This dual focus on fun and skill development makes it a valuable resource for educators and parents alike.
LaRosa’s work is gaining traction in educational settings, particularly in Boston. It’s being utilized in ESL programs, YMCAs, and Boys and Girls clubs, demonstrating its educational value and broad appeal.
The plays incorporate elements of history, fantasy, and mythology, adding depth to the narratives. Themes of honesty, integrity, and maintaining a sense of humor are woven throughout, providing valuable life lessons in an engaging format.
The inspiration for these plays comes from a personal place. When LaRosa and his wife married 41 years ago, they had a kitten that inspired the author to create stories, which he then wrote down as short plays.
One notable aspect of “Play Along (With Me)” is its focus on recurring characters. Bob, Beth, and Kitten Stephanie appear throughout the plays, providing a sense of continuity and allowing readers to form a connection with these fictional personalities. This recurring cast helps to tie the individual plays together, creating a cohesive reading experience.
The book’s illustrated format adds visual appeal, making it more engaging for younger readers. Additionally, its inclusion in the Minuteman Library network speaks to its growing popularity and accessibility.
The book offers educators a flexible resource that can be adapted to various learning scenarios, including ESL programs. Each play’s short, ten-minute format makes it particularly suitable for classroom use, allowing for quick performances and discussions within a typical lesson period.
The versatility of “Play Along (With Me)” extends beyond the classroom, making it an excellent choice for family gatherings, birthday parties, or any occasion where entertainment is needed. Its simple setup requirements mean impromptu performances can be organized with minimal preparation, encouraging spontaneity and creativity.
LaRosa’s incorporation of historical and mythological elements, such as the phoenix, adds an educational layer to the entertainment. This approach can spark curiosity in young readers, potentially inspiring them to explore these topics further.
For drama teachers, the book provides a valuable tool for introducing students to the basics of performance, character development, and script reading. The short play format allows for multiple students to participate, ensuring everyone gets a chance to shine on stage.
Ready to bring laughter and learning into your home or classroom? “Play Along (With Me)” by Bob LaRosa is now available on Amazon. This collection of 25 short plays featuring Kitten Stephanie is suitable for ages 12 and up. Whether for drama class, rainy days, or family fun, these easy-to-perform skits offer entertainment and valuable life lessons. Don’t miss out—get your copy on Amazon today and start playing along!
Published by: Martin De Juan
