Isabella and the Puzzle Pirates

Abstract

This is an adaptation of a story mutually told in our family during the early years of the pandemic. It involves a young girl's discoveries about moral identity formation, woven into her fantasy life, during a time of uncertainty and social isolation. This adaptation is intended for classroom and performative readings as well as staged enactments in intimate spaces accommodating young children with teachers and parents present. The readings or enactments may be conducted over consecutive storytelling periods. Audience participation is welcomed during several scenes. The author anticipates that creative puppetry as well as pantomime may be used liberally.