Author
Effa E. (Effa Estelle) Preston
1884-1975
Effa E. (Effa Estelle) Preston (1884-1975) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
Subjects
Books by Effa E. (Effa Estelle) Preston
A Party in Mother Goose Land: A One Act Play for Primary Children
"A Party in Mother Goose Land: A One Act Play for Primary Children" by Effa E. Preston is a theatrical play designed for young children, likely written in the early 20th century. The play is a whimsical presentation that brings together various characters from classic nursery rhymes and fairy tales, showcasing the importance of storytelling and childhood imagination. The narrative unfolds in Mother Goose's home, where beloved characters such as Hansel, Gretel, and Puss in Boots gather for a festive celebration. Each character introduces themselves through short verses and songs, recounting their adventures and contributions to the Land of Story Books. The playful interactions among characters highlight themes of friendship and bravery. The climax features a cheerful finale with the characters singing together, affirming the joy of storytelling and the magic of childhood tales, leaving the audience with an uplifting sense of nostalgia and wonder.
In a Toy Shop: A Christmas Play for Small Children
"In a Toy Shop: A Christmas Play for Small Children" by Effa E. Preston is a delightful children's play written in the early 20th century. The book is designed as a festive entertainment piece aimed at young children, focusing on a whimsical and charming depiction of toys coming to life in a toy shop just before Christmas. Its playful narrative combines musical elements and simple choreography, making it suitable for performance by small children during holiday festivities. The storyline unfolds in a toy shop where the toys come to life after the shop owner has closed for the night. Characters include toy soldiers, dolls, blocks, and various other toys that sing and dance, expressing their hopes of being chosen as gifts for children. Through their interactions, they share themes of friendship, joy, and the spirit of giving associated with Christmas. As they celebrate the magic of their existence, the toys demonstrate a collective yearning for the happiness they can bring to children, making it an enchanting and heartwarming play for young audiences.
A Thanksgiving dream : $b A one act play for primary children
"A Thanksgiving Dream: A One Act Play for Primary Children" by Effa E. Preston is a charming children's play written in the early 20th century. This one-act play is designed for young performers and audiences, focusing on the themes of Thanksgiving and the rich history surrounding it. The content highlights the interaction between Pilgrims, Native Americans, and traditional Thanksgiving elements such as pumpkins and turkeys, presenting a lighthearted and educational narrative. The play centers around a young boy named Jack who, after indulging in a large Thanksgiving meal, falls asleep and dreams about various characters associated with the Thanksgiving celebration. Through his dream, he meets Pilgrim Maids who recount their struggles and relationships with Native Americans, as well as whimsical pumpkins and turkeys who lament their fates. Goblins add a comical twist, warning Jack against being greedy, which ultimately leads him to wake up and reflect on his feast. The final message encourages children to appreciate their meals without overindulgence while capturing the spirit of Thanksgiving in a playful manner.
A Strike in Santa Land: A Play in One Act
"A Strike in Santa Land: A Play in One Act" by Effa E. Preston is a whimsical children's play written in the early 20th century. The play centers around the character of Santa Claus and his toy workshop, where a unique dilemma unfolds as the toys refuse to leave Santa Land for Christmas. This charming piece blends childlike imagination with themes of generosity and the spirit of giving. In the story, as Santa prepares for his annual journey, he learns that several toys, including a general and a private soldier, a doll, books, and others, are hesitant to be sent to children on Earth. Each toy expresses its fears of being mishandled or forgotten, wishing instead to stay in the comfort of Santa Land. However, when Santa learns of two uncounted children in Alaska who will go without Christmas gifts, the toys rally together, motivated by their sense of duty and kindness. Ultimately, they decide to go, embodying the spirit of selflessness and the joy of giving to those in need. The narrative conveys lighthearted humor and engaging dialogue, making it suitable for performance during the holiday season.
Uncle Sam's Right Arm: A Patriotic Exercise
"Uncle Sam's Right Arm: A Patriotic Exercise" by Effa E. Preston is a theatrical work intended for performance, likely written during the early 20th century, specifically in the context of World War I. This book comprises a patriotic play that emphasizes themes of national pride, duty, and unity in the face of war. It is designed as a musical or entertainment piece aimed at stirring the spirit of patriotism among children and families during a time of national turmoil. The narrative of the book centers around Uncle Sam, depicted as a representation of America, who encourages children to contribute to the war effort. Through songs, characters, and various roles, such as soldiers, nurses, farmers, and aviators, it illustrates how everyone has a part to play in supporting the troops and promoting the ideals of democracy. The characters express their aspirations and responsibilities, stressing actions like buying war bonds, saving stamps, and aiding the Red Cross. Ultimately, the play seeks to inspire a sense of duty and collective work toward victory, reinforcing the message that every individual's effort is vital in maintaining the nation’s freedom and democracy.
The Dolls on Dress Parade
"The Dolls on Dress Parade" by Effa E. Preston is a children's play written in the early 20th century. This whimsical stage production features various dolls that come to life, showcasing their unique characteristics to a young girl who is searching for a new doll. The play explores themes of friendship, loyalty, and the intrinsic value of old toys over new ones, making it a delightful experience for both children and adults. In the play, a little girl enters a doll shop and is greeted by the shop woman and the Soldier Doll, who prepares her for a grand "dress parade" of the dolls. Each doll, from the graceful French Doll to the utilitarian Rag Doll, presents itself with a song highlighting its distinct traits. As the parade progresses, the audience witnesses the charm and character of the older, less glamorous Mary Alice, the Old Doll, who ultimately wins the child's affection. The girl recognizes that true friendship and love go beyond superficial appearances, resulting in a heartwarming conclusion that celebrates the beauty of being “tried and true.”