The Laundry Basket — Melissa Mailer-Yates

This is the fifth title in the Shakespuss series. The story is from 'The Merry Wives of Windsor'. The elements of the story contain an illustration of how pride leads to the downfall of those who act in such a way. It is a central theme within the play written by William Shakespeare and simplified to be understood and enjoyed by the very young. It is presented by, and subsequently told by Shakespeare's cat, William Shakespuss. The various characters are played out by some of his animal friends, and features Augustine Phillips, an Elephant Seal, in the leading role of Falstaff in this story. Not only does it give a brief and friendly introduction to a subject often perceived as difficult in its pure form, it creates an interest in the full play, and de-mystifies the language and structure associated with Shakespeare's plays. The diversity of the animals playing the different parts lends a great tapestry of character styles, naturally depicting the inherent characteristics of each person in the story through their appearance at least.