Princess, Cowboy, Pirate, Elf:: Princess, Cowboy, Pirate, Elf: A First Book of Plays

Though unlikely to garner any Pulitzer Prizes or Tony Awards, this collection of 14 one-page playlets can foster youngsters' imaginary powers while spurring littlest thespians to greater dramatic heights. The two-person scenarios progress with La Ronde-like symmetry as ``Princess & Cowboy'' leads to ``Cowboy & Elf,'' ``Elf & Wizard,'' etc.--returning full circle to ``Firefighter & Princess.'' The brevity of these pieces precludes any real histrionics, of course, but the straightforward dialogue is entirely age-appropriate (``Whose little voice do I hear?'' ``I am a sea fairy. Please help me.'') Boyd's typically childlike artistic style suits the illustrations, though their two-color renderings in purple and black ultimately lack punch. A pocket inside the back cover contains nine paper hats--a crown, chef's toque, firefighter's helmet, etc.--for portraying the various characters. Places, everyone! Ages 3-7. (Sept.)