Recommended by Ken Love

I've said it once and I'll continue to say it: whether it is the novel, film or a play - the foundation of all literature is character. It's what's remembered when that novel is finished, or that film or play has been seen. Jennifer O'Grady's "Ellery", for me - from a mere reading - is a fine example of this. And was akin to having consumed a feast. Magic realism, drama and "the afterlife" - well-worn themes which are given fresh and exuburent life in this deeply effective play. I enjoyed it from start to finish!

"my brother's keeper" is a dark comedic parable that has to be seen to be believed. A mere reading does not do it justice. A work that teeters on the edge of the abyss. Nice work, Mr. Donley!

Years ago, a movie reviewer, on seeing a particular film she admired, said, quote: ". . . this is a work which says NO in thunder". Unquote. I dare say that the same metaphor should apply to this short, powerful piece. It is a cry from a dark, neglected place that needs to be heard and reckoned with. Kudos!

With a nod to Hemingway's "Soldier's Home" and the 1946 film "The Best Years of Our Lives", this mystery/drama in a post war setting is highly compelling and - from beginning to end - never loses its grip. The characterization is fully dimensioned, with dialogue that is evocative of the era yet never sounds trite. Would work exceedingly well on stage or film.

The sign of a truly engaging work is that it leaves you wanting more. The horrific circumstances, the events, the dilemma, the irony - all are carried in the souls of the characters, who are so humanly drawn. Painfully told, yet necessary. Kudos!

Yes, what actually occurred in that room between Christine's daughter and her daughters friend is anyones guess. And the fact that we never know exactly what happened is the point, and what's makes this short work so riveting. This is the second work that I've read by Debra A. Cole. And I must admit that I'm becoming a fan!

A touching, heartfelt and lyrical work in the vein of Paul Zindel's "The Effect of Gamma Rays on Man-In-The-Moon-Marigolds", made all the more effective with beautifully rendered characters and eloquent dialogue. The play was an absolute joy to read.

A unique take on a persistent and uniquely American conundrum. Highly believable characters with dialogue that cuts ever so deeply. A satisfying, yet heartbreaking read. Well done!

How I love a good dark comedy! Which, by the way, is not easy to pull off. Mr. LeBlanc's talent is in top form with this short work. Terrific dialogue and a good punchline at the end. Nicely done!

A compelling idea: two women - an ex-wife and an illicit lover - at the funeral of the man whom both were involved with. The piece avoids anger and melodrama. And the felt pain from both characters is never succumbed to. By the time the last line of dialogue was spoken, I found myself wanting to know more about these women. Nicely done!