The Wonderful Wizard of Oz

by Lyman Frank Baum

Genres: Classics

192 pages, Hardcover

Published October 1, 2024

About the author

See L. Frank Baum.

Lyman Frank Baum, born on May 15, 1856, in New York, and passed away on May 6, 1919, was an American author, best known for his enduring classic, "The Wonderful Wizard of Oz." A man of diverse talents and interests, Baum tried his hand at various professions before finding his true calling in writing. He began his literary career with children's books and then ventured into playwriting and journalism. "The Wonderful Wizard of Oz," published in 1900, marked a turning point in Baum's life and American children's literature. This magical tale, rich in imagination and filled with memorable characters, such as Dorothy, the Scarecrow, the Tin Man, and the Cowardly Lion, captivated readers worldwide. Baum's vision of a fantastical land, combined with his ability to weave an engaging narrative, cemented his status as a master storyteller. Baum wrote numerous sequels to "The Wonderful Wizard of Oz" and several other novels and short stories, often exploring fantasy and fairy tales. His works are celebrated for their creativity, sense of adventure, and the underlying themes of courage, heart, and wisdom. Baum's legacy continues to enchant readers and inspire adaptations in various forms of media, making him an iconic figure in children's literature.

Reviews

[Alex · Rating 4 out of 5]

I never read this book as a child. Still, the greatness of Wizard of Oz and Alice in Wonderland, etc. lies in the fact that even as a young adult I can appreciate them. This particular story has never been my favourite, but I could still appreciate it enough for what it had to offer.

[Christine Sanchez · Rating 4 out of 5]

There’s something so comforting about rereading a childhood favorite. I loved rediscovering this story and comparing it to the movie some scenes hit differently on the page.

[Deb Zich · Rating 5 out of 5]

Of course I've seen the movie dozens of times, as a girl and as a mother with my children. I've read Wicked, I've seen the Wicked Broadway show and the two Wicked movies so far. I may have read the original Oz book as a child, but didn't remember the silver sparkly shoes of the wicked witch of the east. Or the vicious Kalidahs, the sweet stork that rescues the scarecrow from the river, and numerous other obstacles and creatures that Dorothy the group encounters along their journey.
It must have been amazing for children in the early 1900's to have these refreshing new stories instead of the fairy tale that had been told for so many generations before.