Part 1 (1/2)

Dramatic Reader for Lower Grades.

by Florence Holbrook.

TO THE CHILDREN

These little plays--well-known stories done into dialogue--were written for children who like to imagine themselves living with their favorite characters in forest, in palace, or in fairyland.

It is hoped that you will enjoy these old friends in their new dress almost as well as you loved them in the old. When you read the words of bird or tree or prince or child, try to speak with the voice and manner which you think that character would use. Thus you will make the reading a joy to yourselves and a great satisfaction to your hearers.

To try to put oneself in the place of another is very good training for the imagination. It also teaches us to be more kind to others and to all living creatures. We learn that most persons are striving to do better and to be better, and we grow in understanding and sympathy.

May these little plays help you to the enjoyment of the great dramas which you will read when you are older.

FLORENCE HOLBROOK

A DRAMATIC READER

LITTLE RED RIDING-HOOD

PERSONS IN THE PLAY--LITTLE RED RIDING-HOOD, MOTHER, BIRD, WOLF, MILLER, GRANDMOTHER

SCENE I.--_At Red Riding-Hood's Home_

_Mother._ Would you like to go to grandmother's to-day, my child? The sun is bright and the air is warm and pleasant.

_Little Red Riding-Hood._ Yes, mother, you know I always like to visit dear grandmamma.

_Mother._ Then you may go. You may carry your little basket, and I'll put some honey and a jar of b.u.t.ter in it for grandma.

_Little Red Riding-Hood._ Oh, that will be a nice present for her! And may I take her some flowers?

_Mother._ Yes, dear child. Gather some of those you like best.

_Little Red Riding-Hood._ Here they are, mother--roses and pansies!

Aren't they pretty?

_Mother._ Very pretty and sweet. Now put on your little red cloak and take the basket. Be very careful as you pa.s.s through the wood, and go directly to grandma's house.

_Little Red Riding-Hood._ Yes, dear mother. Nothing will harm me. All the birds and animals love me and I love them.

_Mother._ Good-by, little daughter. Give me a kiss and take my love to dear grandmother.

_Little Red Riding-Hood._ Good-by, mamma: good-by!

SCENE II.--_In the Wood_

_Little Red Riding-Hood (singing)._