The Collected Plays of Neil Simon Vol IV

i'm a bit of an amatuer theater buff and purchased volume one of mr. simon's plays just in doing some research (it was cheaper than a single copy of the play i wanted). i read the play that i wanted and went on with life. later, as i was looking for a book for casual reading, i decided to read the other plays in that particular collection. i was hooked. mr. simon will long be remembered as the voice of the american play. now, on the fourth volume, his plays are as vibrant and entertaining as ever. even though some are dated in there setting and references, the stories are timeless. The collected plays of neil simon, vol. 4 is prominantly displayed in my home library--and a early "go to" when i'm in need of some casual reading. this particular volume contains the pulitzer prize winning "lost in yonkers".

Rumors and Lost in Yonkers are amazing plays. Jake's Women isn't as funny, and the story isn't as strong as the other two, but is has some laughs and a few great monologues. I'm only a little ways into Laughter on the 23rd Floor, but I already love it. This book is a great example of how unique and developed all of Neil Simon's characters are. You won't be disappointed.

I believe this is one of the greatest books ive ever had the priviledge to come across. I have also been blessed to have been able to play the part of Ken Gorman from Rumors this past year at my high school. These plays are genius in every way shape and form.

I especially enjoy this collection of plays because it contains so many different genres, each evoking a strong emotion from the reader. For instance, Rumors is an incredibly funny farce that contains both slap-stick and witty humour, while Lost in Yonkers is a powerful drama about the coming of age of two boys forced to live with their grandmother in the middle of Yonkers. The other three plays, London Suite, Laughter on the 23rd Floor, and Jake's Women are also strong pieces and were very enjoyable to read as well. Of all Neil Simon's collections, I would have to say that Vol. 4 contains the most variety and the plays featured consist of some of his best works.