Over the Moon: A Musical Play by Jodi Picoult

Introduction

Step into a world where moonlight meets mischief, and fairy tales get a fresh, witty twist. Over the Moon: A Musical Play brings together the storytelling genius of bestselling author Jodi Picoult with the creative talents of Jake van Leer and Ellen Wilber. This delightful hardcover edition is a must-have for every school library, drama club, and young performer in India who loves music, laughter, and a touch of magic.

Book Overview

Imagine a cross-dressing Hairy Godmother narrating a tale where the moon herself, Luna, descends to Earth disguised as a boy. She sets out to help humans find love, only to fall head over heels for Prince Jack. But Jack is in love with Felicity, who has fallen for Luna—and the romantic chaos that follows is pure theatrical gold. Packed with nineteen original songs, clever puns, and topical jokes referencing everything from American Idol to universal health care, this play is a vibrant mash-up of Shakespearean comedy and fractured fairy tales. It’s designed to be easily adapted for any school or town, making it a perfect choice for middle and high school drama programs across India.

Key Highlights

• Original Musical with 19 Songs: Hum-worthy, catchy tunes that bring the story to life on stage.
• Adaptable Script: Plenty of spots to tailor the play to your city, school, or local references.
• Cross-Dressing Narrator: A Hairy Godmother who adds humour and heart to every scene.
• Fractured Fairy Tale Fun: Classic characters meet modern wit in a story that’s both timeless and fresh.
• Perfect for School Productions: Designed with middle and high school students in mind.

Inside the Book

Open the pages of Over the Moon and you’ll find a complete script with stage directions, song lyrics, and character notes. The play is written in a lively, accessible style that encourages creativity and collaboration. From the opening number to the grand finale, every scene is crafted to keep actors and audiences engaged. The hardcover binding ensures durability for repeated rehearsals and performances.

Key Topics

• Love and self-discovery
• Identity and disguise
• Friendship and misunderstandings
• Modern satire through fairy tale lens
• Teamwork and performance skills
• Adapting classic stories for contemporary audiences

Reader Benefits

• Builds Confidence: Students gain stage presence and public speaking skills through performance.
• Encourages Creativity: Adapting the play to local settings sparks imagination and ownership.
• Teaches Collaboration: Drama productions require teamwork, from acting to backstage support.
• Develops Musical Talent: Singing and performing original songs enhances musical ability.
• Promotes Literacy: Reading and interpreting a script improves comprehension and expression.

Learning Outcomes

Students who work with this play will learn how to bring a script to life, understand character motivation, and explore themes of love, identity, and humour. They will develop vocal projection, timing, and emotional expression. The musical elements teach rhythm, melody, and coordination. Most importantly, they will experience the joy of creating something together—a memorable performance that celebrates imagination and teamwork.

Who Should Read

• Middle school and high school drama teachers looking for a fresh, fun production
• Students aged 10 to 16 who love acting, singing, or stagecraft
• School librarians building a collection of performance-ready plays
• Parents and guardians supporting young performers
• Community theatre groups seeking a light-hearted, adaptable musical

About the Author

Jodi Picoult is a globally celebrated author known for her thought-provoking novels that explore complex human relationships. With over 25 books to her name, including My Sister’s Keeper and Small Great Things, she brings her signature storytelling depth to this musical play. Her collaboration with Jake van Leer and Ellen Wilber shows her versatility and love for the stage.

About the Publisher

Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers is a prestigious imprint dedicated to publishing engaging, high-quality books for children and teens. With a legacy of nurturing young minds through stories that inspire, educate, and entertain, this edition continues that tradition—bringing a one-of-a-kind musical play to readers and performers in India.

Conclusion

Whether you’re a drama teacher searching for the next school production, a student eager to step into the spotlight, or a parent who wants to encourage a love for theatre, Over the Moon: A Musical Play is a sparkling gem. Its humour, heart, and hummable songs will leave your audience cheering—and your cast begging for an encore. Add this hardcover to your collection and let the magic begin!