LANGUAGE ARTS AND LITERATURE
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PLOT DESCRIPTIONS, AND SAMPLE PAGES
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PRIMARY SCRIPTS:
P-1 BONY MARONY AND GO HOME GOLDIE
BONY MARONY is an upbeat version of the old nursery rhyme, "Little Rabbit Foo Foo." Much "bop bop bopping" and "hop hop hopping" encourage young readers and listeners to join in the reading. -- GO HOME GOLDIE is a fun and fast-moving version of "Goldilocks and the Three Bears." Teacher narrates, assigns a few simple reading parts, and invites everyone else to participate too. Teacher or older reader narrates, some selected readers have short easy-reader lines, and there is an opportunity for whole class to participate in unison, if desired. (Grades K-3) (5 Readers), (14 Readers).
View Sample Pages HERE. View Sample Pages HERE.
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P-2 THE CREAKY DOOR
A young boy is afraid to sleep in a bedroom which has the "creakiest, squeakiest door in the entire world." Grandma decides to put the family pets into his bed in the hope that they will keep the boy company during the night. A wonderful participation tale with exciting sound effects and much repetition for easy reading. Teacher or older reader narrates, some selected readers have short easy-reader lines, and there is an opportunity for whole class to participate in unison, if desired. (Grades K-3) (6 Readers).
View Sample Pages HERE.
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P-3 THE LION'S PRIDE
One day on a walk through the forest, a prideful lion meets a parrot, an owl, a hyena, and a wise little girl who displease him. The lion eats them all! They escape from the lion's stomach and teach the lion to take more pride in his family than he does in himself. That is why, to this very day, a lion's family is known as a pride! Verbal and hand cues are used to encourage dramatic sound effects as the plot progresses. Teacher or older reader narrates, some selected readers have short easy-reader lines, and there is an opportunity for whole class to participate in unison, if desired. (Grades K-3) (6 Readers).
View Sample Pages HERE.
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P-4 THE GREAT APPLE SLICE ESCAPE
A sweet little old grandmother decides to make an apple pie and prepares the filling from five of our most well-known varieties: a Northern Spy, a Spartan, a McIntosh, a Red Delicious, and an Idared. Once inside the crusts, the apple slices hatch a daring escape plan. The use of repetitive phrases and an ever-building internal poem make this script fun for lower and upper primaries alike. Teacher or older reader narrates, some selected readers have short easy-reader lines, and there is an opportunity for whole class to participate in unison, if desired. (Grades K-3) (6 Readers).
View Sample Pages HERE.
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P-5 NEAT AND TIDY, NEAT AND CLEAN
This script has bee?n especially written as a participation tale for the primary grades. Each school day Miss Dickerson encourages her students to pick up the classroom until it is "neat and tidy, neat and clean!" But a series of strange voices, which seem to be coming from the waste basket, suggest that the children recycle and create something new! They do, and surprise their teacher with a puppet who knows exactly what the word recycle means. Teacher or older reader narrates, some selected readers have short easy-reader lines, and there is an opportunity for whole class to participate in unison, if desired. (Gr?ades K-3) (6 Readers).
View Sample Pages HERE.
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P-6 WHALE OF A TALE
Set in the far north. This traditional swallowing tale tells of an Inuit (Eskimo) boy who lives in an igloo with his grandmother. One day, grandmother is so busy sewing with her bone sewing needle that she forgets to prepare any food. The boy sets forth in search of food and ends up swallowing a number of arctic animals. The story is resolved with the help of grandmother's needle and in a truly magical way. Teacher or older reader narrates, some selected readers have short easy-reader lines, and there is an opportunity for whole class to participate in unison, if desired. (Grades K-3) (6 Readers).
View Sample Pages HERE.
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P-7 SWEET PORRIDGE
A poor, hungry girl goes into the woods to pick berries. There an old woman gives her a magic cooking pot. The pot is controlled by special magic words and cooks "hot, sweet porridge" on command. The girl's mother forgets the magic words and the pot ends up creating havoc for local villagers. To this day, no one in the village eats porridge. Teacher or older reader narrates, some selected readers have short easy-reader lines, and there is an opportunity for whole class to participate in unison, if desired. (Grades K-3) (7 Readers).
View Sample Pages HERE.
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P-8 THE MONKEY AND THE CROCODILE, PART 1
An adaptation of an old favorite! A clever young monkey outsmarts the crocodile who is about to eat her by pretending she has left the tastiest part of her body back home in a mango tree. This version includes two simple poems which are meant to be chanted together or in "round" fashion so that all readers and listeners may take part. Teacher or older reader narrates, some selected readers have short easy-reader lines, and there is an opportunity for whole class to participate in unison, if desired. (Grades K-3) (5 Readers).
Sample pages not available.
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P-9 THE MONKEY AND THE CROCODILE, PART 2
The sequel to Monkey and the Crocodile, Part 1! Grandmother monkey tells her granddaughter how to visit "the island in the middle of the swamp" by jumping to a large rock located between the mainland and the island. But the crafty crocodile traps the monkey on the island by blocking her way back home. She outsmarts him again, and swings off through the trees. Another chance to chant simple poems together or in a round including both readers and listeners. Teacher or older reader narrates, some selected readers have short easy-reader lines, and there is an opportunity for whole class to participate in unison, if desired. (Grades K-3) (5 Readers).
Sample pages not available.
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P-10 EASTER DRAW AND READ
A wonderful story poem. Teacher takes on major narration while children are assigned easy, repetitive phrases. Thirteen verses tell this Easter tale. After each verse is read, a simple shape is drawn on the blackboard or display pad. The circus has come to town announcing "Special Guest Star! Easter Thrills and More!" No one, including the clowns, know the identity of the special guest star. As one drawn shape is added to another, the mystery is solved. It's the Easter Bunny, of course, fluffy tail and all. (PRIMARY) (Teacher narrates and draws shapes, special lines for 9 other readers and/or whole class.).
View Sample Pages HERE.
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P-11 A THANKSGIVING SURPRISE
A holiday story told in verse. Verses are read, as simple shapes are drawn on blackboard or display pad. The story begins: A poor hungry man, his wife, and a mouse, all live together in a round sod house. (Circle shape is drawn to indicate the round house). The reading continues: Here is the house, round as can be. But there's more to this story than the EYE CAN SEE! Indeed there is. The story ends with the drawing of a turkey who is just in time for Thanksgiving. (Teacher or older reader narrates and draws shapes, some selected readers have short easy-reader lines, and there is an opportunity for whole class to participate in unison, if desired.) (PRIMARY).
View Sample Pages HERE.
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P-12 THE DINOSAUR'S DINNER
Teacher reads this story while children make sound effects and recite repetitive lines. A little girl meets a Brontosaurus who wants to come to breakfast, an Anatosaurus who wants to come to lunch, a Stegasaurus who wants to come to tea, and a Brachiosaurus who wants to come to dinner. She's delighted, but can't find a menu to please them. They turn down bacon, hot dogs, and cold cuts, then fall asleep all over her yard. She is finally able to awaken and feed them when she learns some dinosaurs are VEGETARIANS. Teacher or older reader narrates, some selected readers have short easy-reader lines, and there is an opportunity for whole class to participate in unison, if desired. (Grades K-3) (14 Readers).
View Sample Pages HERE.
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P-13 THE MAGICIAN'S MUFFINS
Move over Gingerbread Man! Make way for two magical roly poly peanut butter and jelly muffins who outrun and outsmart a cow, a duck, a sheep, a pig, and a mighty magician. A clever boy who acts first and talks later eats the muffins and breaks their magic spells so that everyone can finally go home. A classic predictable tale. Repetition, animal sounds, and rhyming words keep teacher-narrator, child readers, and listeners actively involved to the very last bite. Teacher or older reader narrates, some selected readers have short easy-reader lines, and there is an opportunity for whole class to participate in unison, if desired. (Grades K-3) (11 Readers).
View Sample Pages HERE.
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P-14 THE GOBLINS OF HOKKAIDO
A blue goblin and a red goblin live in the northern mountains of Japan on the island of Hokkaido. Both are the proud possessors of magic noses. When properly wiggled, these noses can be made to grow so long they pass through the Japanese islands of Hokkaido, Honshu, Shikoku, and Kyushu. The goblins find themselves in trouble with a prince and princess who finally teach them to keep their noses out of other people's business. Teacher or older reader narrates, some selected readers have short easy-reader lines, and there is an opportunity for whole class to participate in unison, if desired. (Grades K-3) (13 Readers).
View Sample Pages HERE.
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P-15 THE TEDDY BEAR'S PICNIC
Freddy Teddy Bear checks his calendar to find that it is once again time for the Teddy Bears' Picnic. He plans the menu, then calls Betty Teddy Bear to tell her what to bring to the picnic. Freddy says, "You bring the hot dogs and the buns. I'll bring the mustard, tons and tons!" Betty passes the word along to Teddy Teddy, Letty Teddy, and Neddy Teddy, but because she recites Freddy Teddy's little poem each time, everyone ends up bringing hot dogs and buns to the picnic. Thank goodness Neddy Teddy also brings a surprise which makes the Teddy Bears' Picnic complete. Teacher or older reader narrates, some selected readers have short easy-reader lines, and there is an opportunity for whole class to participate in unison, if desired. (Grades K-3) (16 Readers).
View Sample Pages HERE.
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P-16 ARDITH MAGEE AND THE CHRISTMAS SHOPPING SPREE
Ardith Magee has four pets: an alligator, an armadillo, an anteater, an antelope, and an antosaurus. She decides to take each on a Christmas shopping spree to the local mall. Ardith's pets buy advent calendars, acoustic guitars, antbrittle, ankle bracelets, candied applies, and airline tickets to Australia. On Christmas morning Ardith's mother receives a box of Aunt Anna's All-American Apricot Jellies and Jams. Her father receives a pair of hot pink angora socks. By now, of course, you've noticed that Ardith's Christmas is filled with "A" words! The best gift, however is an L word - LOVE, and that gift is given when the antosaurus dries his tears and wishes everyone a "MERRY CHRISTMAS!" (PRIMARY) (Teacher narrates, whole class participates).
View Sample Pages HERE.
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P-17 OWL'S PERFECT VALENTINE
Here's another holiday "draw and read" story for primary readers. Teacher narrates this tale about Oliver the wise old owl who is searching for a perfect valentine. Eager listeners make owl sounds, repeat each line of the repetitive readers chorus (echo fashion), and clap their hands in rhythm to the chorus beat. Narrator stops after each verse to draw a simple shape on the blackboard or display pad. The story ends with the drawing of a perfect valentine complete with heart shape, cupid's arrow, and lacy edges. Oliver ruffles his "wiggle wiggle wings", taps his "tickle tickle toes", and has a very happy valentine's day. (PRIMARY) (Teacher narrates and draws shapes, whole class participates).
View Sample Pages HERE.
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P-18 A HOLIDAY FOR PADDY 0'SHAY
A shoe mending leprechaun, Paddy O'Shay, decides to celebrate St. Patrick's Day by taking the day off! He puts away his needle and thread, grabs his shillelagh, and marches off through the shamrocks singing his own special song. Readers and listeners alike repeat that song throughout the story, as our leprechaun embarks on a journey to find "The Leprechaun Who Mends Shamrocks!" All participate (through sounds and actions) as Paddy marches, runs, swims, and climbs in his quest to find the leprechaun he seeks. Paddy finds her, of course, and returns home to "dance a jig and sing his song one last time." A festive way to learn about St. Patrick's Day. (PRIMARY) (Teacher narrates, whole class participates).
View Sample Pages HERE.
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P-19 THE THING THAT GLOWS IN THE DARK
On Hallowe'en night Pam and Ron, Jan and Pete, dress themselves for "Trick or Treat!" They call the dog (the dog named Rags, the dog with the tail that always wags) and the cat (the cat named Scat, the cat who always smells a rat) and all head off to meet THE THING THAT GLOWS IN THE DARK!!! Teacher narrates and assigned readers recite the many simple lines which are repeated again and again throughout the tale. Readers and listeners alike join in on the "Trick or Treat" chorus. Simple shapes are drawn on blackboard or display pad as the story unfolds. Scat the cat solves the mystery and the finished drawing shows our dreaded "THING!" It's a jack-o-lantern, of course. (PRIMARY) (Teacher or older reader narrates, 17 selected readers have short easy-reader lines, and there is an opportunity for whole class to participate in unison, if desired).
View Sample Pages HERE.
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INTERMEDIATE AND UPPER INTERMEDIATE SCRIPTS:
I-1 WHO SAID THAT?
An April Fools' Day tale. Stanley goes down to the river and meets a talking stick, rock, and fish. He runs away in horror and joins friends Sally, Alex, and Ginny. The group then meets a talking bicycle, dog, and tennis racquet. When they report these happenings to Officer Grundy, he does not believe them and is not amused. He knows it is April Fools' Day. The last laugh, however, is on us - and it happens right at the end of this story. (INTERMEDIATE) (8 Readers).
View Sample Pages HERE.
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I-2 OUTFOXING THE SNAKE
Can you really outfox a snake? Ted Truefoot helps a snake who is caught between some rocks, then finds out that the snake plans to reward him with DEATH. Thank goodness the right fox comes along and settles the matter fairly and squarely (well, squarely anyway) and everyone except the snake is happy. (INTERMEDIATE) (6 Readers).
View Sample Pages HERE.
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I-3 THREE WISHES
We make wishes all the time, but did you ever stop to think what would happen if they all came true? Lotta Goodhope and her husband Andy certainly never gave it much thought. If they had, Lotta wouldn't have found a sausage stuck to the end of her nose! Lotta's dilemma is finally resolved and an important lesson is learned in this adaptation of a favorite folktale motif. (INTERMEDIATE) (6 Readers).
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I-4 THE HEN AND THE NEIGHBOR'S ROOSTER
Set in Canada. An extremely intelligent hen goes off in search of riches. She flies to Canada's capital city, Ottawa, and perches upon the Minister of Finance's rosewood desk. The hen ends up a prisoner in the nation's mint, but escapes from the Penny Place, the Nickle Nook, the Quarter Quarters, and the Loon Room because she is an "extremely intelligent hen." A surprise ending and a very unhappy rooster complete the tale. (INTERMEDIATE) (6 Readers).
View Sample Pages HERE.
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I-5 THE KING OF THE CATS
Set along a rocky coast. A grave-digger returns home to tell of his eerie encounter with nine black cats who marched through the fog to deliver a message: "Tell Tom Toldrum that Tim Tildrum is dead. Tell him, or your life won't be worth living!" The poor grave-digger doesn't even know a Tom Toldrum. His wife and old cat listen carefully as the tension mounts. This story is a jump-tale. If read correctly, all listeners should be scared enough to "jump" at the story's end. (UPPER INTERMEDIATE) (6 Readers).
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I-6 MISERY'S TREE
Set in apple-growing country. An old woman named Misery owns one prized possession: a magnificent apple tree. The tree, however, does not make Misery happy. Village children steal her apples and ignore her when she warns, "Go on home and let me be. Stay away from Misery!" In the end, the tree, an enchanted visitor, and a granted wish help Misery outsmart both the children and DEATH'S messenger when he, too, tries to steal an apple. (UPPER INTERMEDIATE) (6 Readers).
View Sample Pages HERE.
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I-7 THE RAT PRINCESS
A Rat King decides that his exceptional daughter must marry "only the most powerful in all the world." He sets forth on a journey to find the perfect husband. By journey's end, the King has learned an important lesson about power from the sun, the cloud, the wind, the stone wall, and an ordinary gray rat whom his daughter has secretly loved all along. (UPPER INTERMEDIATE) (7 Readers).
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I-8 SILLY, SILLY, SILLY
Thomas Stern is engaged to his neighbor, Mary Sillatoe, and thinks she might be the "silliest girl in the world." He goes off on a quest to find someone sillier, and does. He not only meets an old gent who is trying to plant a puppy so it will grow into a dogwood tree, but also meets a fair maiden trying to make a suit of armor from old love letters, and a lad trying to rake the moon's reflection out of a pond of water. Thomas retuns home to marry Mary, knowing there are other people in the world sillier than she. (UPPER INTERMEDIATE) (8 Readers).
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I-9 BIG BROTHER AND THE ELFIN WOMAN
A young hockey fan discovers an obnoxious elfin woman in his kitchen and decides not to tell the sprite his real name. Instead, he says he is called "Me, Myself, and I." This turns out to be a smart decision, as it saves the boy from being turned into "squash stew" by the woman's giant-like brother, and rids his house of the elfin invaders. A clever tale involving mistaken identity. (UPPER INTERMEDIATE) (7 Readers).
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I-10 CLEVER LUCY
Poor John Carver is a farmer who has a hard time feeding his family. But John is married to Lucy, and Lucy is a mighty clever lady. With the family down to its last roasted chicken, Lucy engages in some clever mathematics and produces more than enough food to feed them all. The tale ends happily as John becomes a successful farmer - all because of Lucy's cleverness. Be prepared for a lively discussion of this tale! (UPPER INTERMEDIATE) (6 Readers).
View Sample Pages HERE.
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I-11 THE HAPPY MAN
King Landor is faced with a seventeen year old son who has lost the will to live. Old Jack, who lives in a small hut high in the hills, is summoned to speak to the boy and prescribe a remedy. Finally, Old Jack tells the king to "find a truly happy man and have him change shirts" with his son. As King Landor finds out, finding a truly happy man is difficult. When he finally finds one, the outcome is totally unexpected, ironic and bizarre. (UPPER INTERMEDIATE) (5 Readers).
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I-12 JACK RABBITS
The villagers of Overton all agree that something must be done about Jack Wiley and his practical joking. They like Jack, but know that Jack is "a practical joker of the worst kind, the kind who never quits!" So, while Jack is away, the entire village conspires to play a joke on him. Jack returns, the joke is pulled, and Jack walks home in his stocking feet vowing to mend his joking ways forever. (UPPER INTERMEDIATE) (7 Readers).
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I-13 THE TRICKSY MOUNTAIN ELVES
Set in the mountain country. An innkeeper and his very capable wife find their inn invaded by invisible tricksy mountain elves. Knowing that the elves love meatloaf and never, ever eat breakfast, helps the pair outsmart their unwanted guests. A cheese pie baked in a jar lid, a chicken casserole baked in an egg shell, and a meatloaf baked in a sewing thimble are part of the plan. (UPPER INTERMEDIATE) (6 Readers).
View Sample Pages HERE.
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I-14 THE FAST SKIPPING POT
Back in the days when "pigs could whistle and pots could talk," a poor hungry husband and wife trade their skinny pig for an old cooking pot and are finally blessed with good fortune. The magical pot skips off to find adventure, tricks a troll, an ogre, and a witch into parting with their most prized possessions, and skips everyone off to the hinterlands in a vat of hamburger soup. (INTERMEDIATE) (6 readers).
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I-15 THE PRINCESS WHO TALKED TOO MUCH
Three brothers from the Kingdom of Goddado journey to the Kingdom of Yak to enter a contest in which they hope to "get the last word in a conversation" with the princess who talks too much. The two older brothers hope to win by their good looks and quick wit, while the slower-witted younger brother tags along saying, "A fella's gotta do what a fella's gotta do!" Of course the younger brother wins by simply telling the truth - as he sees it! All live happily ever after. (UPPER INTERMEDIATE) (9 Readers).
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I-16 UNCLE RUSSELL AND THE POPLAR TREES
Mother Nature calls in Uncle Russell when she realizes she does not have time to paint white fluffy clouds into summer's clear blue sky. But Russell doesn't want the job. He's not used to big canvases, he doesn't have the right paint colours, and besides, his brushes are much too small. A long row of poplar trees solve Russell's problems and end up sporting silver-backed leaves for eternity. (INTERMEDIATE) (5 Readers).
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I-17 EASTER DRAW AND READ
Readers and artists join forces to read this wonderful story told in verse. Readers read thirteen verses, but stop after each verse to draw a simple shape on the blackboard or display pad. The circus has come to town and has hung a banner inside the main tent announcing "Special Guest Star! Easter Thrills and More!" No one, including the clowns, knows the identity of the Special Guest Star. As one drawn shape is added to another, the mystery is solved. It's the Easter Bunny, of course, fluffy tail and all! A great tale for intermediate readers to practice and then perform for the primary grades. (INTERMEDIATE ) (4 Readers).
View Sample Pages HERE.
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I-18 A THANKSGIVING SURPRISE
Another holiday story told in verse. Again readers read, but stop after each verse to draw a simple shape on the blackboard or display pad. The story begins: A poor hungry man, his wife, and a mouse, all lived together in a round sod house. (Circle shape is drawn to indicate the round house). The reading continues: Here is the house, round as can be. But there's more to this story than the EYE CAN SEE! Indeed there is! The story ends with the drawing of a turkey who is just in time for Thanksgiving! (INTERMEDIATE) (4 Readers).
View Sample Pages HERE.
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I-19 JOE AND THE BUTTON FACTORY
A fast moving, fun, repetitive tale about a fellow named Joe who works in a button factory and pushes buttons. He starts off with a wife, one child, and just one button to push. He ends up with seven children, and more buttons than he can possibly manage. Wife and children join in to help him push the buttons with every spare hand, foot, and head available. Good performance piece filled with lots of silly movement, rhythm, and rhyme. (UPPER INTERMEDIATE) (10 Readers).
View Sample Pages HERE.
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I-20 SILLY WILLY CANADA GOOSE WAR
"Once upon a time, a farmer's wife went out to her garden to dig carrots. Instead, she dug up a pot of gold." Sounds simple enough, but the plot thickens as greedy kinfolk descend upon the farm hoping to get their hands on the treasure. There is no solution but to declare a Silly Willy Goose War! You've got to read this one to believe it! (UPPER INTERMEDIATE) (6 Readers).
View Sample Pages HERE.
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I-21 THE DINOSAUR'S DINNER
A young girl meets a Brontosaurus who wants to come to breakfast, an Anatosaurus who wants to come to lunch, a Stegasaurus who wants to come to tea, and a Brachiosaurus who wants to come to dinner. She's delighted, but can't find a menu to please any of them. They turn down bacon, hot dogs, and cold cuts, then fall asleep all over her yard. She is finally able to awaken and serve them a proper dinner when she finds out that some dinosaurs are VEGETARIANS. (INTERMEDIATE) (5 Readers ).
View Sample Pages HERE.
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I-22 THE QUEEN'S STAIRWAY
"No, no, with due respect. I won't do it. It can't be done," says the Lady-in-Waiting when she is ordered to pluck a star from the sky for her queen's jewelry collection. "Anything's possible, if you put your head to it," replies the queen. The Lady-in-Waiting, Page, Palace Chef, and Jester do put their heads to the task and end up building a stairway to the stars out of - the queen's jewelry boxes. The queen decides to pluck her own star and finds the stairway is just a little too short. Soon jewelry covers the kingdom. They're still looking for the queen. (INTERMEDIATE) (6 Readers).
View Sample Pages HERE.
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I-23 THE MAGICIAN'S MUFFINS
A perfect tale for intermediate readers to rehearse and then perform for primary children. Two magical roly poly peanut butter and jelly muffins outrun and outsmart a cow, a duck, a sheep, a pig, and a mighty magician. A clever boy who acts first and talks later eats the muffins and breaks their magic spells so that everyone can finally go home. A classic predictable story. Lots of repetition, animal sounds, and rhyming words to keep young listeners involved to the very last bite. (INTERMEDIATE) (8 Readers).
View Sample Pages HERE.
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I-24 THE GOBLINS OF HOKKAIDO
Here's a well-known Japanese folktale for intermediate readers. A blue goblin and a red goblin live in the northern mountains of Japan on the island of Hokkaido. Both are the proud possessors of magic noses. When properly wiggled, these noses can be made to grow so long that they pass through the Japanese islands of Hokkaido, Honshu, Shikoku, and Kyushu! The goblins get into trouble with a prince and a princess who finally teach them to keep their noses out of other people's business. (INTERMEDIATE) (5 Readers).
View Sample Pages HERE.
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I-25 THE GREAT RACE
Set in Canada. "Once, when animals ran the government, a female groundhog from British Columbia won an election in her riding and became an Honorable Member of Parliament." The groundhog moves her look-alike family to Ottawa, Ontario, and one day, finds herself in a footrace with an unpleasant rabbit MP from the back benches. To win the race, the groundhog comes up with a plan which is worthy of the "most organized and inventive public servant." She wins, and the event goes down in Ottawa history as "The Great Race!" (INTERMEDIATE) (8 Readers).
View Sample Pages HERE.
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I-26 THE GREAT APPLE SLICE ESCAPE
A sweet little old grandmother decides to make an apple pie and prepares the filling from five of our most well-known varieties: a Northern Spy, a Spartan, a McIntosh, a Red Delicious, and an Idared. Once inside the crusts, the apple slices hatch a daring escape plan. The use of repetitive phrases and an ever building internal poem make this an especially good script to rehearse and then perform for younger listeners. (INTERMEDIATE) (8 Readers).
View Sample Pages HERE.
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I-27 THE TEDDY BEAR'S PICNIC
Freddy Teddy Bear checks his calendar to find that it is once again time for the Teddy Bears' Picnic. He plans the menu, then calls Betty Teddy Bear to tell her what to bring to the picnic. Freddy says, "You bring the hot dogs and the buns. I'll bring the mustard, tons and tons!" Betty passes the word along to Teddy Teddy, Letty Teddy, and Neddy Teddy, but because she recites Freddy Teddy's little poem each time, everyone ends up bringing hot dogs and buns to the picnic. Thank goodness Neddy Teddy also brings a surprise which makes the Teddy Bears' Picnic complete. (INTERMEDIATE) (6 Readers).
View Sample Pages HERE.
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I-28 THE ROLY RICE BALLS
Japanese folklore contains many stories about kind people who live next door to mean people. In this version of that theme, a poor but kind old man follows three rice balls as they roll into a hole. The rice balls lead him to a tiny land under the earth which is inhabited by millions of mice. The mice give the man a magical golden rice-pounding mallet to thank him for sharing his rice balls with them. From that day on, the mallet provides food for the man. His greedy neighbour, however, trys to trick the mice into giving him a mallet, and ends up with mud, slime, slugs, and other "horrid things!" (UPPER INTERMEDIATE) (5 Readers).
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I-29 ARDITH MAGEE AND THE CHRISTMAS SHOPPING SPREE
Same wonderful plot as in the primary version of this tale, but parts are divided amongst narrators, Ardith, Mother, and Father who describe the Christmas shopping sprees of their pet alligator, armadillo, anteater, antelope, and antosaurus. The animals shop for the perfect Christmas gift, buying advent calendars, acoustic guitars, antbrittle, ankle bracelets, candied applies, and airline tickets to Australia. On Christmas morning, however, the most treasured gift is the gift of LOVE and it is given by Ardith who dries the antosaurus's tears and wishes the whole family a "MERRY CHRISTMAS!" (INTERMEDIATE ) (4 Readers).
View Sample Pages HERE.
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I-30 OWL'S PERFECT VALENTINE
Same basic plot as the popular primary version of this story, but more sophisticated. Four readers relate the tale of Oliver the owl who wastes his time searching for the "perfect valentine". Reader #4 reads Oliver's lines and gets in trouble with other cast members by practising "Whoooooo!" in all the wrong places! As the story progresses, simple shapes are drawn on blackboard or display pad. Finally, Reader #4 "sees the light" and gives Oliver the credit he deserves. Readers #1, #2, and #3 have to agree. The makings of a perfect valentine have been in front of them all along. (INTERMEDIATE ) (4 Readers).
View Sample Pages HERE.
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I-31 A HOLIDAY FOR PADDY O'SHAY
It is the "tip top of a St. Patrick's Day morning" when a shoe mending leprechaun named Paddy O'Shay decides to take the day off! Paddy grabs his "sprig of shillelagh" and strolls off to find a green sewing needle threaded with shamrock green thread. The needle tells him to find "The Leprechaun Who Mends Shamrocks". An old leprechaun, dressed all in orange, invites Paddy to help play a jig on the fiddle, reed pipe, and harp, but Paddy follows the needle's advice and finally meets an ancient leprechaun who turns shamrocks into four leaf clovers - for the "luck o' the Irish!" Many St. Patrick's Day vocabulary words and phrases find meaning in this exciting script. (INTERMEDIATE ) (7 Readers).
View Sample Pages HERE.
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I-32 THE THING THAT GLOWS IN THE DARK
Four readers tell the spooky tale of Jamie and Matt who decide to spend Hallowe'en night camping out on the grounds of an old haunted estate. The boys collect their tent, backpacks, and supplies, then meet in front of the estate gate. Both notice the "strange eerie light" which seems to follow them everywhere. Around the corner a hounddog's bark warns of the Thing that glows in the dark, but the boys ignore the warning, scout out the property, and set up camp. When the boys become separated, a black cloud covers the moon, and Matt alone confronts the dreaded Thing. To this day, only a few people know the true identity of that Thing - a jack-o-lantern, of course. (UPPER INTERMEDIATE ) (4 Readers).
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FABLES, MYTHS, AND LEGENDS:
I-33 THE ANT AND THE GRASSHOPPER (Fable)
This well-known Aesop's fable tells the story of Gerald, a "partying" grasshopper who would rather rap, dance, or sing than think about his future. Ant friends Annabelle, Arlene, and Adrian enjoy Gerald's company, but would rather work to store up food for the winter than waste time playing. Gerald tries to entice them through song (the songs may be rapped, sung, chanted, or even danced), but nothing works. The moral of the story: PROVIDE FOR YOUR FUTURE. (Grades 4-6) (7 Readers).
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I-34 THE LION AND THE MOUSE (Fable)
One of Aesop's most popular fables, The Lion and The Mouse tells the story of a tiny creature who proves just how big he can really be! While the script is fun to read, it also teaches valuable lessons in evaluating relationships and making assumptions based on appearances. One of Aesop's recurring themes is - actions or appearances can be deceiving! In this story, Lion does not appreciate Mouse's talents or friendship until he is caught in a rope trap and freed by his small companion. (Grades 4-6) (7 Readers).
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I-35 THE HARE AND THE TORTOISE (Fable)
Slow and steady wins the race. Hare, Tortoise, Fox, Owl, and Mouse gather together for a classic competition. Slow-talking Tortoise has actually challenged Hare to a foot race "Hare,- I - am - tired - of - hearing - you - brag. I challenge -you - to - a - race"). Fox lands the job of setting the course. Owl is asked to monitor the race from the sky. At the appointed time, Mouse will start the race by waving a small flag. Well, most of us know the famous Aesop's fable ending: Hare is overly confident, falls asleep at the wrong time, and Tortoise is declared winner. It's an old tale but, oh, the lessons to be learned. (Grades 4-6) (7 Readers).
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I-36 PROMETHEUS (Myth)
God Zeus commands two titan brothers to create the animals and endow them with special gifts. The impulsive Epimetheus creates one strange looking animal after another, but thoughtful Prometheus thinks, wonders, and ponders. He finally creates a small living figure which is god-like in appearance and man is born. But Zeus does not like the man creation and is furious. Prometheus gives man the gift of fire, but is sentenced to an eternal punishment for his act. This Greek myth explains the creation of man and how man became master of the earth. (Grades 6 and Up) (7 Readers).
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I-37 PANDORA (Myth)
According to greek mythology, evil and hope both came into the world with the creation of the first woman! Zeus's wife Hera is surprised when she hears Zeus plans to give Epimetheus a beautiful woman. The woman is called Pandora. Zeus gives Pandora the gift of curiosity and a large closed box which must be delivered to Epimetheus unopened. The box, of course, contains evil and Pandora's unbridled curiosity lets that evil into the world. Hera cannot change what has happened, but she can help. She gives Pandora the gift of hope. (Grades 6 and Up) (11 Readers).
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I-38 JASON AND THE GOLDEN FLEECE (Legend)
This story script about Jason and his pursuit of the golden fleece covers only a small part of Jason's adventures. The script is meant to introduce readers to Jason, Medea, Pelias, and the basic plot elements which make up Jason's quest for the legendary golden fleece. Young Jason kindly carries an old woman across a river and looses one of his sandals. King Pelias has been warned to beware a man wearing one sandal, so he wants Jason out of his sight. He agrees to give up his crown if Jason can recapture the golden fleece. Jason sails off in the Argo and with Medea's magical help, finally outsmarts Pelias, the king of Colchis, and a field of fire-breathing dragons to retrieve the fleece. (Grades 6 and Up) (7 Readers).
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I-39 THE TROJAN HORSE (Legend)
"Beware of Greeks bearing gifts," warns a Trojan wise man. No one is listening! The Trojans want to keep the giant wooden horse found on their beach. They want to believe the horse is a gift offering to the goddess Athena. They want to believe ten years of war with the Greeks is over. The Greeks have left the gift horse and sailed away. It is time for celebration! But beautiful Helen of Troy knows the horse is filled with 30 Greek warriors who have come to rescue her. She places a guiding light in her chamber window. The gods interfere in the plans of men, bringing death to the Trojans and disaster to the Greeks. (Grades 6 and Up) (8 Readers).
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I-40 ODYSSEUS RETURNS HOME (Legend)
The Trojan War ended ten years ago. Helen has returned to her Greek husband, Menelaus. But the fate of brave Odysseus, designer of the Trojan Horse, is unknown. Odysseus's faithful wife, Penelope, awaits his return and plays a clever waiting game with the many men who have moved into her castle and demand her hand in marriage. Just in time, a dirty beggar appears at the castle door with news that Odysseus is alive. The castle dog and an old nurse sense the beggar is not who he pretends to be. In an archery contest between Penelope's suitors, the beggar outshoots everyone and proves to be Odysseus himself. (Grades 6 and Up) (5 Readers).
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I-41 THE SWORD AND THE STONE (Legend)
No other round table legend is as well known as this one! Based on Sir Thomas Malory's fifteenth century tale, Merlin prophesises King Uther Pendragon's death. Arthur, the king's infant son, is taken from the palace, hidden from crown enemies, and raised by trusted knight, Sir Ector. Arthur grows up believing he is the knight's son and Sir Kay's brother. He learns the truth on a visit to London for a great tournament. Arthur is sent off to find a sword for his brother, sees one encased in a large stone, and easily removes it. The stone's inscription reads: Whoever pulls this sword from this stone is king of all England by right of birth. Colour-me posters, tickets & program covers not included in this collection. (Grades 6 and Up) (8 Readers).
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I-42 BEOWULF (Legend)
The character of Beowulf is found in one of the oldest poems in the English language, yet many modern superheroes share such common Beowulf characteristics as unlimited bravery, goodness, and unusual strength. In this scripted legend, Hrothgar's Denmark castle is being terrorized by the savage creature Grendel and Grendel's beastly mother. But help is on the way! A ship carrying Prince Beowulf of the Geats sails into the harbor. As readers chant "Beowulf, Beowulf, Beowulf," the brave prince rips Grendel's arm from its socket and follows Grendel's mother into the watery swamp. Blood soon colors the water. The lives of many are saved and Beowulf becomes a hero. (Grades 6 and Up) (6 Readers).
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FAMOUS INVENTORS:
I-43 ALEXANDER GRAHAM BELL, INVENTOR OF THE TELEPHONE
Canadian-born Alexander Graham Bell, his wife, father-in-law, lawyer, and partner (Thomas Watson) appear in court before a judge. They take part in a preliminary hearing to determine ownership of patent rights to the telephone. Through dramatic testimony the story of Bell's extraordinary invention unfolds. Readers and listeners alike will remember the facts of this case long after the reading ends. (Grades 6 and Up) (6 Readers ).
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I-44 LEONARDO DA VINCI, IMAGINATIVE INVENTOR
Leonardo da Vinci fears he is dying and asks his companion to summon a notary and a priest. Through their bedside conversation we learn about Leonardo's life and incredible accomplishments as a "visionary inventor." Many of today's modern machines can be traced to da Vinci's notebooks and sketches. But in 1519 these ideas lived mainly in the inventor's imagination, and Leonardo felt he would die a "failure!" (Grades 6 and Up) (4 Readers ).
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I-45 THE WRIGHT BROTHERS, INVENTORS OF THE AIRPLANE
Three students visit a flight museum and are amazed when statues of Orville and Wilber Wright come alive and speak to them. The students question these famous brothers and learn important facts about the invention of the airplane. Did you know the Wrights owned and worked out of a bicycle shop in Ohio? That Wilber tired of bicycles and longed to invent something new? Who was actually in the plane that day at Kitty Hawk and what he was wearing? The facts are intriguing and this script is fun to read. (Grades 6 and Up) (5 Readers ).
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I-46 JAMES NAISMITH, INVENTOR OF BASKETBALL
An ace newspaper reporter and his photographer plan to interview Canadian James Naismith about a new game played with peach baskets! They visit the Springfield, Massachusette YMCA where Naismith works. It seems the cold winter weather made it difficult to play games outside, so Naismith devised an inside game involving a large ball (small balls required too much extra equipment), passing rather than running (too many injuries occurred when players ran inside), and the ultimate goals -- two peach baskets found in the corner of the gym. (Grades 6 and Up) (5 Readers ).
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I-47 JOHANN GUTENBERG, INVENTOR OF MOVEABLE TYPE
The TV series "This is Your Story" features stories of the influential and famous. Today's show asks Johann Gutenberg to identify some mystery voices from the past! A monastery monk, Gutenberg's father, and the world's first printer tell a fascinating tale about the invention of moveable type. Using a piece of machinery which looked very much like a wine press, Gutenberg's first print project was to run 300 copies of the Bible. He became famous, but died penniless. A clever but unsympathetic lawyer stole his press, ink, paper, and staff. (Grades 6 and Up) (5 Readers ).
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I-48 BANTING AND BEST, INVENTORS OF INSULIN
Three reporters host the show "Meet the Reporters" and welcome their guest, Nobel Prize winner, Dr. Frederick Grant Banting. Banting surprises everyone by introducing Charles Best and announcing plans to share his portion of the Nobel Prize with Mr. Best. The reporters question both gentlemen and are told the story of the invention of insulin. Banting and Best's first job as inventors was to scrub the walls and floor of a small dirty room at the University of Toronto. The room became their research lab, and a year later they had developed the insulin for diabetes. (Grades 6 and Up) (5 Readers ).
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I-49 ARCHIMEDES, THIRD CENTURY B.C. INVENTOR
A Roman general has announced plans to capture the city of Syracuse. As the script begins, an ancient king and his royal advisor discuss the forthcoming battle and wonder how to defend their city. They send for Archimedes who had performed miraculous tasks for the previous king. Archimedes appears in court and tells how he once used science to catch a dishonest goldsmith. He then suggests the use of mirrors, levers, and catapults to defend Syracuse from the Romans. The plan is a good one, and Archimedes is rewarded for his service to the crown. (Grades 6 and Up) (3 Readers ).
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I-50 FLORENCE NIGHTINGALE, INVENTOR OF MODERN NURSING
Welcome to the 1861 Florence Nightingale School of Nursing graduation ceremony! Although Florence is an invalid and confined to bed, family and friends gather to celebrate and share memories of Florence's unique career. They remember Florence's wealthy family did not approve of nursing and urged Florence to perfect her singing voice. But Florence studied mathematics and became "the lady with the lamp" to wounded soldiers of the Crimean War. Her book, "Notes on Nursing," helped establish the world's first training school for nurses. (Grades 6 and Up) (6 Readers ).
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I-51 REGINALD FESSENDEN, PROLIFIC INVENTOR
Three students need help with a joint science report which is due in just two weeks! They meet a helpful research librarian who is compiling a file on Canadian inventor Reginald Aubrey Fessenden. The librarian encourages them to look into Fessenden's work. The students find Fessenden holds over 500 patents, developed over 100 inventions related to sea transportation, and pioneered our modern radio and radio equipment industries. In connection with the Fessenden story, they also come across the names of Thomas Edison, Alexander Graham Bell, and Marconi! Needless to say, their science report is a great success. (Grades 6 and Up) (4 Readers).
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I-52 THOMAS ALVA EDISON, THE PRACTICAL INVENTOR
One narrator and six characters tell the Thomas Alva Edison story which led to the invention of the electric light, the phonograph, and the moving picture. Young Thomas hates school, so his teacher-trained mother decides to teach him at home. Although nearly deaf, he goes to work at 12 and, by the age of 22, sells his first invention for $40,000! The money enables him to set up a workshop with tools, chemicals, equipment, and a good staff. The rest is history! (Grades 6 and Up) (6 Readers).
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FAMOUS EXPLORERS:
I-53 MAGELLAN (1480-1521), CIRCUMNAVIGATOR OF THE WORLD
After a perilous and disastrous journey, the dregs of Magellan's fleet sail into Spain. The King of Spain welcomes three of the survivors: Del Cano (second in command), Antonio Pigafetta (a writer who went along to record the journey), and one of Magellan's sailors. As they talk, the dramatic details of an ill-fated journey become clear. A fleet of five ships and over 250 men has dwindled to one ship and 18 men! Lack of wind, ice, starvation, native attacks, murder, and mutiny colour the tale. Magellan has not survived the journey, but has named the Pacific ocean and his fleet has circumnavigated the world. (Grades 6 and Up) (5 Readers).
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I-54 LEWIS AND CLARK (1480-1521), CIRCUMNAVIGATOR OF THE WORLD
After a perilous and disastrous journey, the dregs of Magellan's fleet sail into Spain. The King of Spain welcomes three of the survivors: Del Cano (second in command), Antonio Pigafetta (a writer who went along to record the journey), and one of Magellan's sailors. As they talk, the dramatic details of an ill-fated journey become clear. A fleet of five ships and over 250 men has dwindled to one ship and 18 men! Lack of wind, ice, starvation, native attacks, murder, and mutiny colour the tale. Magellan has not survived the journey, but has named the Pacific ocean and his fleet has circumnavigated the world. (Grades 6 and Up) (5 Readers).
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I-55 ALEXANDER MACKENZIE (1764-1820), CROSSING CANADA BY LAND
Loyalist Alexander Mackenzie mounts two long and difficult explorations in his search for a water route to the West. "Why?" asks his cousin Roderick. "Furs, man, furs!" replies Mackenzie. In this scene Mackenzie, fellow explorer McKay, two voyageurs, and Roderick remember the excitement, hardships, and challenges of two famous Canadian explorations. By 20 he had become a partner in the fur trading business and was sent to Fort Chipewyan on Lake Athabasca, where he met McKay. Both men dreamed of finding a water route to the West. Their first attempt took them down "the River of Disappointment" ending at the Arctic Ocean. Their second journey, however, took them to "the Stinking Lake," better known as the Pacific Ocean. (Grades 6 and Up) (5 Readers).
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I-56 JACQUES CARTIER (1491-1557), SEARCHING FOR A WATER ROUTE TO CHINA
Back in France, Jacques Cartier meets a friend on the street who asks Jacques where he has been for the last three years. "I've been in Canada, in the new world, exploring for the king!" he answers. A fisherman joins the pair and talk turns to fishing, marriage, and then to exploration. Suddenly a messenger interrupts him and he is led away to meet with the king. The king is not happy. Cartier's stash of gold, diamonds, and rubies from the new world is worthless. "Your gold is fools gold!" shouts the king. "The diamonds and rubies are just quartz crystals and mica!" There will be no more money spent on Cartier expeditions. Cartier sadly rejoins his friends on the street. "Maybe," he says, "I'll return to my boyhood home and Go fishing!" (Grades 6 and Up) (5 Readers).
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I-57 LEIF ERICSSON (Approx. 960-1020), VIKING DISCOVERER OF NORTH AMERICA
Two Scandinavian children, Lars and Anna, have waited patiently for the skalds (storytellers) to begin. They tell how, long ago, Eric the Red had a fiery temper to go with the fiery color of his hair. In fact, Eric's temper caused him to be banished from both Norway and Iceland, so he and his wife settled in Greenland to raise their children. Leif, Eric's son, (Leif Ericsson) grew to manhood, visited Norway, and became a favorite of the Norwegian king. On the return trip to Greenland, Leif rescued the survivors of a shipwreck and gained the nickname, Leif the Lucky! And he WAS lucky. Later he sailed off to discover three lands: Helluland, Markland, and Vinland. Many believe the new land was North America. (Grades 6 and Up) (6 Readers ).
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I-58 CAPTAIN JAMES COOK (1728-1779), EXPLORING FROM CANADA TO THE SOUTH PACIFIC
Three sailors, a clerk, and a mate watch from the ship as Captain James Cook is killed by natives in the Hawaiian Islands. As a funeral pyre flares, the men recall their voyages with Captain Cook. As a young man, Cook helped chart the St. Lawrence River in North America. Later he returned to search for the elusive Northwest Passage. But the men especially remember the voyages to the South Pacific, first to watch Venus pass between the earth and sun from a particular location, then to explore Easter Island where they discovered the giant stone heads! "Our captain is gone," says the clerk, "but his achievements will last forever!" (Grades 6 and Up) (5 Readers ).
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I-59 LA SALLE (1634-1687), TAMING THE MISSISSIPPI
This scene opens as a French hunter, settler, and carpenter complain about the miserable time they are having as would-be settlers in La Salle's expedition. LaSalle and a trapper friend enter and try to make the men feel better by comparing present hardships to those suffered on other journeys. They talk about earlier Mississippi river explorations: the hunger, the alligators, the Indians, the discouragement, and travelling back to New France against the river's current. But they also remember, with pride, the placing of a cross on the riverbank as they claimed the land in the name of Louis XIV, King of France and of Navarree. The three settlers are not impressed; they make plans to kill LaSalle, take his supplies, and continue on their own. (Grades 6 and Up) (5 Readers ).
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I-60 CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS, (1451-1506) DISCOVERER OF A NEW WORLD
Christopher Columbus, back in Spain after his long and famous voyage, visits a monastery to thank the monk for his prayers. Two brothers, Bartholomew and Diego, join them and are eager to discuss the voyage from beginning to end. Each of Christopher's three ships had a surgeon and supplies to last a year. Cooking was done in a cook-box set on a bed of sand. Christopher's mission had always been to discover a new route to India and to spread Christianity, "the true religion!" On this voyage he believed he had found the islands off India, and felt the natives there would be easily converted to Christianity. And, even though the sailors were close to mutiny just before land was sighted the voyage had been a success. (Grades 6 and Up) (4 Readers ).
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I-61 MARCO POLO (1254-1324), CHINA ADVENTURER AND AUTHOR EXTRAORDINAIRE
Venice and Genoa are at war. Marco Polo has been captured and thrown into jail. He sits in his cell with writer, Rustichello, telling of his incredible experiences in China. Rustichello writes the stories down. Polo tells of a desert crossing which took thirty days, of visions of water and trees where there was only sand, and of lost lives. When Khan sends an escort, the Polos are finally welcomed to his world. It has taken three and a half years to get there. Polo describes Khan's systems for money (paper!), messages (these could be received 300 miles away within 24 hours!), and bathing (daily!). Soon Rustichello's book on Polo's adventures will be ready. All the world wants to know about the wealth and wonder of the East. (Grades 6 and Up) (4 Readers).
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I-62 CHAMPLAIN (1567-1635), THE FATHER OF NEW FRANCE
Champlain is on his way to prison. Accompanied by a Frenchman, an Englishman, an Indian, and a guard. Champlain has crossed the ocean over twenty times, and his travelling companions are eager to hear his stories. In the early days of Champlain's explorations, he spent cold winters in Nova Scotia on the Bay of Fundy setting up a trading post for furs. Later, he named "Kebec" (Quebec) from an Indian word and built a fort there. Eventually, he explored the Ottawa River, Lake Nipissing, the Georgian Bay, Lake Huron, and Lake Superior. He charted the land, hoping settlers would flock to Canada. But the war between England and France is landing him in jail. All agree they have been honoured to share his company. (Grades 6 and Up) (5 Readers).
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BIBLE SCRIPTS:
B-1 RUTH. A Story About Love
A script based on the Book of Ruth. Naomi's husband and two sons are dead. She decides to leave Moab and return home. Naomi insists her two daughters-in-law, Orpha and Ruth, remain in Moab near their own parents, but Ruth begs to accompany Naomi back to Bethlehem. She does, and the love story begins! Ruth meets Boaz in the barley fields, follows Naomi's good advice concerning the finding of a suitable husband, weds Boaz, and ultimately gives birth to a son who later becomes the great King David! (5 Readers) (Grade 6-Adult).
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B-2 DAVID AND GOLIATH. A Story About a Shepherd and a Giant
A script based on I Samuel 17. The Philistines are camped on one side of the valley and King Saul and the Israelites are camped on the other side. Young David pays a visit to the Israeli camp. He brings a gift of food from his father, Jesse, and hopes to spend a few moments with his brothers who are soldiers in the camp. Little does he know he will soon be a hero! The giant Goliath approaches, then challenges, defies, and insults Israel. What's a young shepherd to do? The rest is history. (7 Readers) (Grade 6-Adult).
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B-3 JONAH. A Story About Jonah and the Whale
A reader script based on the Book of Jonah. God commands Johan to go to the great city of Nineveh and tell the people He plans to destroy them because of their wicked ways. Jonah hears the command and runs in the opposite direction! He buys his way onto a ship headed for Tarshish and God is not pleased. God creates a great storm and the ship is about to sink when Jonah is thrown overboard in an effort to make amends. Needless to say, thanks to a very big fish, Jonah is transported to dry land and finally obeys God's command. In the end, the city is saved! (7 Readers) (Grade 6-Adult).
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B-4 MOSES 1. A Story About a Baby in a Basket
A script based on Exodus 1 and 2. Pharaoh decided there are too many Hebrews in Egypt and commands Shiphrah and Puah (the Hebrew midwives) to kill all Hebrew male babies at birth. The two midwives outsmart Pharaoh, but he soon issues a new command which, he believes, all the people must obey. Pharaoh's assistant helps spread the command throughout Egypt: "Every newborn Hebrew son shall be thrown into the Nile River!" Miriam obeys the command and places her newborn brother in the Nile, but puts him in a reed basket coated with tar. The Princess of Egypt finds the basket floating in the river, decides to keep the baby herself, and names her new son Moses! (9 Readers) (Grade 6-Adult).
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B-5 MOSES 2. A Story About Manna, Meat, and Water
A script based on Exodus 16-17. Moses and Aaron have led their people out of Egypt, but most of the people are angry, defiant, and indignant. They are hot, hungry, thirsty, and losing faith in their leaders' ability to keep them alive in the desert. Moses announces that God will send bread and meat, but when the manna and meat appear, the people take more than their share and are punished when the extra manna goes bad and becomes inedible. Still, God takes care of His people. He sends Moses to Mt. Horeb where Moses strikes a rock with his staff and water gushes forth. The Israelites continue to wander the desert for forty years and are dependant on God for their direction, their manna, their meat, and their water. (6 Readers) (Grade 6-Adult).
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B-6 ABRAHAM AND ISAAC. A Story About the Offering of Isaac
A script based on Genesis 22. Abraham is commanded to go to the land of Moriah, climb a special mountain, and bring a specific gift for God himself. The command is a test of Abraham's faith and obedience. He approaches his son, Isaac, and tells him about the journey they must take. The narrators of this reader script comment, ``Abraham isn't telling Isaac EVERYTHING God said." Of course, he isn't. Isaac is going to be sacrificed! Isaac accompanies his father to the top of the mountain while the narrators watch and worry. To the narrators' great relief, Abraham passes the test, Isaac lives, and Abraham's descendants are incredibly blessed. (5 Readers) (Grade 6-Adult).
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B-7 KING SOLOMON. A Story About a Wise King
A script based on I Kings 3 and II Chronicles 1. King David dies and his son, Soloman, becomes the next king. One night God appears to Soloman in a dream telling him to ask for anything he wishes and God will grant his request. Solomon wishes for an understanding heart and a wise mind so that he may properly govern the people of Israel. God is so pleased with the wishes that he grants them and also gives Solomon riches, fame, and a long life. Solomon's heart and wisdom are soon called to the test when two young women come to him seeking a decision about which is the true mother of a newborn baby. A sharp sword and a revelation are involved in the outcome! (7 Readers) (Grade 6-Adult).
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B-8 GIDEON. A Story About Gideon's Victory
A script based on Judges 6 and 7. God gave the Israelites the Promised Land, but they forgot their God, so He allowed the Midianites to rule. One day Gideon goes to thresh some wheat and is approached by an angel. The angel greets him as a mighty soldier and says, "I am the angel of the Lord and I am sending you to save Israel from the Midianites! Gideon doesn't believe what he hears, but is finally convinced. He gathers 32,000 men to fight the Midiantes, but this is too many men! Gideon and the angel find a unique way to pare the number of fighting men to 300, then march forth to fight the most famous "non-battle" in history. (4 Readers) (Grade 6-Adult).
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B-9 JOSEPH. A Story About a Coat of Many Colors
A script based on Genesis 37. Jacob prospers and has twelve sons. He does not, however, treat all his sons equally. His favorite son is Joseph and the other sons are quite aware of Jacob's favoritism. Joseph not only receives the gift of a spectacular colored robe from is doting father, he also annoys his brothers by interpreting his own dreams to suggest that someday his brothers will bow down before him. The brothers rebel by stealing the robe and throwing Joseph into a dry well, then selling him to a group of traders heading for Egypt. Years later, of course, Joseph becomes the means of rescue for his brothers and they do bow before him, just as he had dreamed. (8 Readers) (Grade 6-Adult).
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B-10 DANIEL. A Story About Daniel and the Lions
A reader script based on Daniel 6. Although Daniel had been taken from his home country when he was a young man, he never forgets his God. He prays to God regularly, three times a day. Because of this, God gives Daniel a place of honor in a foreign land and he becomes a favorite of King Darius. Daniel's special status angers the king's governors. The jealous governors talk the king into proclaiming a new law: No person is allowed to request anything from any god or man except from the king himself! Anyone breaking this new law will be thrown into a pit of lions. Daniel, of course, continues to pray to God as he has always done and, to the governors' delight, is thrown into the pit. God sends an angel to shut the lions' mouths and Daniel survives. The king is elated. The governors are not! (7 Readers) (Grade 6-Adult).
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