Steven Strafford writes with incredible humor and expert pacing in SMALL JOKES ABOUT MONSTERS. The four characters are all distinct and fully realized in their complexity with revelations that spin each of them in unexpected directions throughout. And the story itself is thrilling from start to finish as Strafford guides us through high comedy and dark, poignant truths with insight and confidence. This is a beautifully complex and highly entertaining play that would also be a delight for actors and a production team.

What a small gem of a play! In this play, Stafford uses humor to show how family members can turn against one another in the wake of tragedy. The jokes begin as lighthearted fun, but they become more barbed as the play goes on. This play starts as an examination of grief but shifts to investigate who is responsible for the trauma in this family. The reveals had me screaming at my computer screen! I am jealous of the audience that got to see this play onstage! Dear God, I hope I get the same privilege one day!

An expertly crafted dramedy that basks in the glory of tormented family ties in the face of everything left unsaid. The love is as strong as the hate. So strong is the hate that it turns into love again. This play takes no prisoners and cares not if it's sublimely timed tonal shifts give you whiplash. Buckle up buttercup.