This collection of 72 monologues and eight duo scenes features fresh, imaginative character portraits for young women that capture vivid attitudes, images, and speeches of realistic characters drawn from real-life role models. These honest, truthful depictions of contemporary life focus attention on the social forces that help to shape a character's behavior or direct attention to actions and attitudes that reveal a character's point of view. The excerpts are grouped in chapters framed by themes, such as "Rage and Retribution," "Faith and Folly," and "Regret and Romance." A brief yet thorough background sketch provides a glimpse of the given circumstances and emotional or intellectual tenor for each monologue or duo scene, as well as performance hints. The selections encompass a range of literary styles and thematic storylines to challenge you in acting assignments, classroom discussions, or formal auditions.