Let's be clear: this isn't a novel. 'Fifty Contemporary One-Act Plays' is exactly what it says on the tin—a massive anthology from 1920. Editors Frank Shay and Pierre Loving gathered a huge range of short plays that were being written and performed in the wake of World War I. There's no overarching story. Instead, you jump from one complete world to the next every 15-20 pages.

The Story

There isn't one story, but fifty. You might start with a gritty, realistic clash between a returning soldier and his family, then turn the page to find a poetic, symbolic fairy tale. Next could be a drawing-room comedy about flappers and modern marriage, followed by a somber piece about industrial strife. The 'plot' of the book is the journey through this chaotic, creative moment. It captures the voice of an era trying to figure itself out, moving from Victorian traditions toward something faster, more psychological, and more direct.

Why You Should Read It

I loved this book for its sheer variety and its historical vibe. It's not polished or perfect—some plays feel dated or slight—but that's the point. You're reading the rough drafts of modern drama. You can see playwrights experimenting with form, tackling taboo topics, and speaking in a new, less formal language. The characters feel surprisingly immediate: anxious young people, stubborn parents, dreamers, and cynics all navigating a changed world. It's like a crash course in the concerns of 1920, from feminism and class conflict to the very meaning of art.

Final Verdict

This one's for the curious reader and theater nerd, not someone looking for a straightforward page-turner. It's perfect for history buffs who want texture beyond dates and facts, for actors and writers looking for obscure, character-rich scenes, and for anyone who enjoys literary archaeology. Dip in and out, read a play at a time, and let yourself be transported. It's a unique, conversation-starting glimpse into the creative workshop of a century ago.