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Dorothy Must Die #0.1-0.3
Dorothy Must Die: Stories
Librarian's Note: this is an alternate cover edition for ISBN13 9780062280794.
Long before Amy Gumm got swept away from a Kansas trailer park…Dorothy Gale received a package on the night of her 16th birthday: a pair of red high-heeled shoes. Dear Dorothy, the note read. I thought about silver to match the ones you lost, but in the end I decided that red was more your color. I think you know what to do with them.
And with a knock of her heels, Dorothy returned to the magical land that made her a star—and Oz would never be the same again.
This bind-up of three prequel novellas to the New York Times bestselling Dorothy Must Die series follows Dorothy Gale as she transforms from good girl to Wicked Witch. Kiss the land where troubles melt like lemon drops goodbye. Here there’s danger around every corner, and magical shoes won’t be able to save you.
Long before Amy Gumm got swept away from a Kansas trailer park…Dorothy Gale received a package on the night of her 16th birthday: a pair of red high-heeled shoes. Dear Dorothy, the note read. I thought about silver to match the ones you lost, but in the end I decided that red was more your color. I think you know what to do with them.
And with a knock of her heels, Dorothy returned to the magical land that made her a star—and Oz would never be the same again.
This bind-up of three prequel novellas to the New York Times bestselling Dorothy Must Die series follows Dorothy Gale as she transforms from good girl to Wicked Witch. Kiss the land where troubles melt like lemon drops goodbye. Here there’s danger around every corner, and magical shoes won’t be able to save you.
416 pages, Paperback
First published March 3, 2015
160 people are currently reading
6575 people want to read
About the author
Danielle Paige
34 books5,604 followersDanielle lives in NY. Before turning to YA, she worked in television & was nominated for several Daytime Emmy's. Dorothy Must Die is her first novel.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 411 reviews
March 18, 2016
I had heard about Dorothy Must Die but haven't yet read it. As a child I had once read the translated version of The Wonderful Wizard of Oz and enjoyed the amazing fantasy world author L. Frank Baum created.
In Dorothy Must Die: Stories, we have three prequels from before the events of Dorothy Must Die The characters in those novellas/prequels are originally based on/from the first two books of The Wonderful Wizard Of Oz series.
And here is my thought:
No Place Like Oz
After reuniting with her Uncle Henry and Aunt Em in Kansas, America. The now-16 years old Dorothy is unhappy and wanting something more in her life. Suddenly a pair of red shoes are sent to her and Dorothy finds herself back to the Land of Oz again...this time with her Uncle and Aunt tagging along, and things have changed greatly: now there is a new ruler in Oz.
I appreciate what Danielle Paige had done for her fictional re-imagined version of Dorothy, for now I can see that it is childish to believe Dorothy could go back to her old life after experiencing the wonder of Oz. However, I don't find the power struggle to be of anything meaningful and those witches in the story are so shallow as characters/rulers (There is little to no explanation for their actions/decisions, nor example of their ruling and skills).
Plus I found it difficult to believe Paige's claim that in Dorothy's first trip to Oz, she was already 14 years old. In my memory Dorothy is a girl who is barely 8 or 9 years old. I am not sure how accurate Paige's claim is.
Furthermore, I also have difficulty to accept And Miss Paige just simply expects me to buy the paper-thinned explanation that 'power corrupts'. *sighs*
Plus I really, really need to point out I've been told a lot about the wonders of Oz and magic, but Paige's writing doesn't show nor impress me much of those wonders and magic.
Last but not least...am I the only one to see the glimpses of The Girl Who Circumnavigated Fairyland in a Ship of Her Own Making in Dorothy's story?
In the end, 3.2 stars.
The Witch Must Burn
In the first novella, at least I can get a feel of how Dorothy is as a person, how her character develops through the progress of the story; but in this second novella, the MC's personality is so paper-thinned that I simply don't care about her. Not to mention she is one of those 'I have special power that is a game-changer but I didn't know how special I am' YA girls.
Plus, I found it rather awful almost every woman in the story is silly. Taking Dorothy and Glinda the Good Witch as examples, they are terrible rulers and they seem to care nothing but their looks and their pretty dresses. *groans*
And by the way, the author just beats you over the head in both stories that women who want to have power and/or want to rule are bad women.
Not to mention, the plot is quite predictable too, and the power struggle among different groups and the mission to right Oz from wrong feel very shallow.
The Wizard Returns
DNF around page 40.
Look, I thought it would be interesting to read a story from the Wizard of Oz's point of view, and I do think the setting is imaginative enough; but 40 pages into this story, I know I'd thought wrong! Why would the author believe making the Wizard is a good idea!? And I honestly cannot bring myself to care about the 'trials' the Wizard had to go through, nor the subplot about the rebellion against Dorothy. I don't care, the author gives me nothing to care, not even those Flying Monkeys can make me care!
PS: if those prequels are supposed to let us see more of Dorothy, Glinda the Good Witch, the Wizard and the rebels' personalities and motivation then help us to better understand their later actions and decisions, then those stories have failed! Those characters are hardly organic beings in these stories, they are cardboard cutouts as best.
PS: It is an afterthought but I cannot help but thinking Dorothy and Princess Ozma in the original stories can be a pair of lesbian lovers. LOL
After Note:
Today I just found some information about both the author and the publisher of this series. So all of those other books by the same publisher, all blacklisted! (further information: http://bibliodaze.com/2014/10/on-want...)
In Dorothy Must Die: Stories, we have three prequels from before the events of Dorothy Must Die The characters in those novellas/prequels are originally based on/from the first two books of The Wonderful Wizard Of Oz series.
And here is my thought:
No Place Like Oz
After reuniting with her Uncle Henry and Aunt Em in Kansas, America. The now-16 years old Dorothy is unhappy and wanting something more in her life. Suddenly a pair of red shoes are sent to her and Dorothy finds herself back to the Land of Oz again...this time with her Uncle and Aunt tagging along, and things have changed greatly: now there is a new ruler in Oz.
I appreciate what Danielle Paige had done for her fictional re-imagined version of Dorothy, for now I can see that it is childish to believe Dorothy could go back to her old life after experiencing the wonder of Oz. However, I don't find the power struggle to be of anything meaningful and those witches in the story are so shallow as characters/rulers (There is little to no explanation for their actions/decisions, nor example of their ruling and skills).
Plus I found it difficult to believe Paige's claim that in Dorothy's first trip to Oz, she was already 14 years old. In my memory Dorothy is a girl who is barely 8 or 9 years old. I am not sure how accurate Paige's claim is.
Furthermore, I also have difficulty to accept And Miss Paige just simply expects me to buy the paper-thinned explanation that 'power corrupts'. *sighs*
Plus I really, really need to point out I've been told a lot about the wonders of Oz and magic, but Paige's writing doesn't show nor impress me much of those wonders and magic.
Last but not least...am I the only one to see the glimpses of The Girl Who Circumnavigated Fairyland in a Ship of Her Own Making in Dorothy's story?
In the end, 3.2 stars.
The Witch Must Burn
In the first novella, at least I can get a feel of how Dorothy is as a person, how her character develops through the progress of the story; but in this second novella, the MC's personality is so paper-thinned that I simply don't care about her. Not to mention she is one of those 'I have special power that is a game-changer but I didn't know how special I am' YA girls.
Plus, I found it rather awful almost every woman in the story is silly. Taking Dorothy and Glinda the Good Witch as examples, they are terrible rulers and they seem to care nothing but their looks and their pretty dresses. *groans*
And by the way, the author just beats you over the head in both stories that women who want to have power and/or want to rule are bad women.
Not to mention, the plot is quite predictable too, and the power struggle among different groups and the mission to right Oz from wrong feel very shallow.
The Wizard Returns
DNF around page 40.
Look, I thought it would be interesting to read a story from the Wizard of Oz's point of view, and I do think the setting is imaginative enough; but 40 pages into this story, I know I'd thought wrong! Why would the author believe making the Wizard is a good idea!? And I honestly cannot bring myself to care about the 'trials' the Wizard had to go through, nor the subplot about the rebellion against Dorothy. I don't care, the author gives me nothing to care, not even those Flying Monkeys can make me care!
PS: if those prequels are supposed to let us see more of Dorothy, Glinda the Good Witch, the Wizard and the rebels' personalities and motivation then help us to better understand their later actions and decisions, then those stories have failed! Those characters are hardly organic beings in these stories, they are cardboard cutouts as best.
PS: It is an afterthought but I cannot help but thinking Dorothy and Princess Ozma in the original stories can be a pair of lesbian lovers. LOL
After Note:
Today I just found some information about both the author and the publisher of this series. So all of those other books by the same publisher, all blacklisted! (further information: http://bibliodaze.com/2014/10/on-want...)
July 16, 2022
Three short stories that take place leading up to the events in Dorthy Must Die. Overall I really liked them. While giving some insight into characters and situations I don't feel it spoiled anything. in fact it sometimes added more questions to my arsenal.
NO PLACE LIKE OZ
-Wow. I felt this ties in nicely to the original story. The main differences is that I felt Oz is a bit more fantastical here (flaming toast, prebuttered, cooked corn still on the stalks, etc) and that Dorothy seems a bit conceited and selfish even from the beginning. The setting when she was in Kansas did feel a bit modern though.
Danielle Paige does a great job with references from the original book. She bases is more on the books than the movies since the ending is fairly different. Going from the original story to this is a fairly smooth transaction.
The questioning of Ozma and missing Glinda was a great idea and the way it plays out is interesting. You really get a glimpse of how Dorothy changes from the sweet girl who first journeyed the Yellow Brick Road to go home, the the wretched brat she is in Dorothy Must Die. Eager to read the next step in the prequel series!
THE WITCH MUST BURN
-This is Jellia's tale. Friend of Ozma, head servant for Dorothy. If you have not read Dorothy Must Die, I highly suggest reading that before this book. Spoilers ahead if you have not read the first book yet. You have been warned....
This book has me really really bad for Jellia, especially after what happens to her in Dorothy Must Die. Although this story dies give us greater insight into who what role she really plays in the story.
Glinda sees something special about Jellia so takes her for a short time to help in her palace. And to that I just want to say "EWW!" Apparently Glinda does not understand that there is a concept for too much pink. On the surface, Glinda just wants a maid but her intentions are much darker in how to use Jellia.
One of the servants working for Glinda shocked me. Yet also confused me on the timelines a bit. Overall an interesting side is shown of certain characters. And we get a better sample of Jellia's ability with Nail Art. I would love it if she would do my nails! Secrets are unveiled and I wonder what part might take in the main storyline.
THE WIZARD RETURNS
- Are you ready to learn the truth behind the wizard? It's not pretty. We all though he was just a phony but he was also a jerk (to put it kindly)! Now with no memory he has the chance to set things right. He is given three trials to determine his true character.
This is one of those stories I can't say too much without giving things away. It does answer some things from Dorothy Must Die but also raises others. I am very curious to see how it all ties into the next couple books.
2022-Audiobook. I love how they got 3 different narrators, one for each story for this. Makes a HUGE difference. Granted it doesn't touch full-cast but it is progress. Time doesn't work strangely just between Oz and Kansas, it works strangely in Oz period after reading this. I want a timeline! How long did Dorothy rule? And the wizard? The second story really had me so sad for what happened to Jellia in Dorothy Must Die. This added so much depth to her character in particular, and yet it also felt a little too late. I am most grateful for the first story of Dorothy's fall. I feel this one is rather crucial to the story.
NO PLACE LIKE OZ
-Wow. I felt this ties in nicely to the original story. The main differences is that I felt Oz is a bit more fantastical here (flaming toast, prebuttered, cooked corn still on the stalks, etc) and that Dorothy seems a bit conceited and selfish even from the beginning. The setting when she was in Kansas did feel a bit modern though.
Danielle Paige does a great job with references from the original book. She bases is more on the books than the movies since the ending is fairly different. Going from the original story to this is a fairly smooth transaction.
The questioning of Ozma and missing Glinda was a great idea and the way it plays out is interesting. You really get a glimpse of how Dorothy changes from the sweet girl who first journeyed the Yellow Brick Road to go home, the the wretched brat she is in Dorothy Must Die. Eager to read the next step in the prequel series!
THE WITCH MUST BURN
-This is Jellia's tale. Friend of Ozma, head servant for Dorothy. If you have not read Dorothy Must Die, I highly suggest reading that before this book. Spoilers ahead if you have not read the first book yet. You have been warned....
This book has me really really bad for Jellia, especially after what happens to her in Dorothy Must Die. Although this story dies give us greater insight into who what role she really plays in the story.
Glinda sees something special about Jellia so takes her for a short time to help in her palace. And to that I just want to say "EWW!" Apparently Glinda does not understand that there is a concept for too much pink. On the surface, Glinda just wants a maid but her intentions are much darker in how to use Jellia.
One of the servants working for Glinda shocked me. Yet also confused me on the timelines a bit. Overall an interesting side is shown of certain characters. And we get a better sample of Jellia's ability with Nail Art. I would love it if she would do my nails! Secrets are unveiled and I wonder what part might take in the main storyline.
THE WIZARD RETURNS
- Are you ready to learn the truth behind the wizard? It's not pretty. We all though he was just a phony but he was also a jerk (to put it kindly)! Now with no memory he has the chance to set things right. He is given three trials to determine his true character.
This is one of those stories I can't say too much without giving things away. It does answer some things from Dorothy Must Die but also raises others. I am very curious to see how it all ties into the next couple books.
2022-Audiobook. I love how they got 3 different narrators, one for each story for this. Makes a HUGE difference. Granted it doesn't touch full-cast but it is progress. Time doesn't work strangely just between Oz and Kansas, it works strangely in Oz period after reading this. I want a timeline! How long did Dorothy rule? And the wizard? The second story really had me so sad for what happened to Jellia in Dorothy Must Die. This added so much depth to her character in particular, and yet it also felt a little too late. I am most grateful for the first story of Dorothy's fall. I feel this one is rather crucial to the story.
February 4, 2017
I'm always a bit wary of novellas as they're usually either a big hit or a big miss for me. I'm glad to say that these were most definitely a huge hit for me! I loved getting to see the behind the scenes/prequel stuff that I always wanted to know more about while reading the original series. Each novella showed a different character and told their story from before the original series and I just ate it up! I really enjoyed each novella and honestly have zero complaints about any of them. I loved each of them for different reasons and thought they each really made a great addition to the series. And now I'm really looking forward to starting the second volume of novellas!
March 30, 2017
Filler
Not necessary to read to enjoy the series, but the stories do use characters from those books
My favorite was the first one, which was the longest, about Dorothy's return to Oz
Not necessary to read to enjoy the series, but the stories do use characters from those books
My favorite was the first one, which was the longest, about Dorothy's return to Oz
June 8, 2015
I might be a little bias.. Because I just love this series.. :)
There's no Place like home:
Except from what happened to Oz, I keep asking myself while reading Dorothy Must Die..
*What happened to Dorothy really?
*How did she become evil from being a nice and kind girl she was?
*How did she manage to return to Oz? and
*Why did she return at all when all she wanted to do was to go home, back from Kansas, when she was still at Oz?
*What happen to her after she returned from Kansas?
All of those question were answered in there's no place like home, told in the POV of Dorothy herself.
Her life in Kansas after returning back from Oz, has never been the same. People was happy she came back, Ofcourse she was happy to be with her Aunt and Uncle. In fact, she was so thrilled she told them all of her adventure in Oz. Guess what? They thought she hit her head and had a fanciful dream. Yeah, it's not everyday you get to hear this kind of fantasy.
When she got the chance to return to Oz, she gratefully accepts it. I mean, it was all she ever wanted after returning to Kansas, why hesitate?
The girl realizes that something wrong is happening to her, she has learn how to be rude to her own uncle and auntie and she keeps wanting so much more.
The witch must Burn:
This part was told in the POV of Jellia. The head maid we all met from Dorothy Must Die. I feel a little bad about the girl ofcourse after what happen to her in the first book, but I honestly find her story a little bit boring, this is actually my least story in this collection. But the fun part is when I get to read about Nox in this story so I guess, I am good.
The Wizard Returns:
We get glimpses of the Wizard from the Dorothy Must Die. But we didn't really know what happens to him when the scarecrow takes over the palace. Everyone thought he return to the "Other Place" but how did he manage to return to Oz, when things are turning into ruins? Yep, he got help.
This is the part of the book where the Wizard has his own adventure while Dorothy is in her peak of her Reign. I honestly find this story more entertaining than The witch must Burn story. I find the Wizard's story more intriguing.
This book certainly make me want to pick up The Wicked will Rise the soonest.
This book is not required to read to understand the story of Dorothy Must Die. But it will certainly help answer your questions, because it did answer mine..
There's no Place like home:
Except from what happened to Oz, I keep asking myself while reading Dorothy Must Die..
*What happened to Dorothy really?
*How did she become evil from being a nice and kind girl she was?
*How did she manage to return to Oz? and
*Why did she return at all when all she wanted to do was to go home, back from Kansas, when she was still at Oz?
*What happen to her after she returned from Kansas?
All of those question were answered in there's no place like home, told in the POV of Dorothy herself.
Her life in Kansas after returning back from Oz, has never been the same. People was happy she came back, Ofcourse she was happy to be with her Aunt and Uncle. In fact, she was so thrilled she told them all of her adventure in Oz. Guess what? They thought she hit her head and had a fanciful dream. Yeah, it's not everyday you get to hear this kind of fantasy.
When she got the chance to return to Oz, she gratefully accepts it. I mean, it was all she ever wanted after returning to Kansas, why hesitate?
The girl realizes that something wrong is happening to her, she has learn how to be rude to her own uncle and auntie and she keeps wanting so much more.
"I had gotten exactly what I had wanted, and still it wasn't enough. I had wanted. And now I wanted more"Yeah, disturbing. After all the encounter she had with the wicked.
"I certainly try not to be wicked (After my experience with Wickedness)."Well you have to try HARDER girl. Obviously, she wasn't able to get over the wickedness, thus the Dorothy Must Die book occured.
The witch must Burn:
This part was told in the POV of Jellia. The head maid we all met from Dorothy Must Die. I feel a little bad about the girl ofcourse after what happen to her in the first book, but I honestly find her story a little bit boring, this is actually my least story in this collection. But the fun part is when I get to read about Nox in this story so I guess, I am good.
The Wizard Returns:
We get glimpses of the Wizard from the Dorothy Must Die. But we didn't really know what happens to him when the scarecrow takes over the palace. Everyone thought he return to the "Other Place" but how did he manage to return to Oz, when things are turning into ruins? Yep, he got help.
This is the part of the book where the Wizard has his own adventure while Dorothy is in her peak of her Reign. I honestly find this story more entertaining than The witch must Burn story. I find the Wizard's story more intriguing.
This book certainly make me want to pick up The Wicked will Rise the soonest.
This book is not required to read to understand the story of Dorothy Must Die. But it will certainly help answer your questions, because it did answer mine..
June 21, 2024
The first story was just terrible. I hate Dorothy. Dorothy has already been built up to be hated, and this story is from her point of view, and she is even more terrible as a narrator.
I liked the Glenda story, which gave me a bit of insight into how she helped Dorothy become as monstrous as possible.
The monkey's brain obsession snippets were interesting, and this set of stories was just too much Dorothy for me.
Danielle Paige did a fantastic job creating someone that you hate, but I don't enjoy her enough to enjoy this more than a 3 star.
I liked the Glenda story, which gave me a bit of insight into how she helped Dorothy become as monstrous as possible.
The monkey's brain obsession snippets were interesting, and this set of stories was just too much Dorothy for me.
Danielle Paige did a fantastic job creating someone that you hate, but I don't enjoy her enough to enjoy this more than a 3 star.
September 10, 2015
4 emeralds.
At first when I read Dorothy Must Die, I did wonder how Dorothy came back to Oz. Since I don't own an e-reader, I was left in the dark for a while. Then when the bind up of the three prequel novellas came out, I was excited to find out more about Dorothy and the other characters.
No Place Like Oz. It was quite the ride reading from Dorothy's POV. What's even more surprising, I actually sympathized with her. I think we can all agree that we want more. And by that, I mean we want to explore the world, see new things, meet new people, have lots of great new experiences and live life. For Dorothy, she had lived her life when she was in Oz. Now that she's back in Kansas, she missed the way her life was in Oz. The friends she made. How she was a hero. And when the golden opportunity comes to go back to Oz, of course she took it! Reading No Place Like Oz did give an new insight to Dorothy and what led her to be a sweet little farm girl to become a tyrannical psycho bitch. And it was easy to sympathize with her. Until the end. Die witch!
4 emeralds.
TheBitch Witch Must Burn. This was honestly a surprising read for me. Jellia did caught me by surprise. She's one of those characters that you would never expect to add to the plot. Granted, she did play a role in Dorothy Must Die, but it wasn't well explained. But wow did we get an eye opener. The best way I could describe Jellia is that she is loyal and would do anything to have Oz back to the way it was and have Ozma back to her regular self. Even if it means being a part of a revolution.
4 emeralds.
The Wizard Returns. The Wizard also caught me by surprise. This is definitely an novella you have to read to understand more about the Wizard. Seeing him in Dorothy Must Die, while surprising, his character wasn't flushed out and he seemed one dimensional, despite him being secretive. In The Wizard Returns, we do get to learn more about his character and follow him on his own journey throughout certain points of Oz, learning valuable lessons as well as him trying to piece his memories as to how he has not returned to the Other Place and what type of person he was when he was ruling Oz. Here, we do get to see him stand out more and all I can say is that never trust anyone.
4 emeralds.
Overall, the stories were good enough for me to enjoy them. I absolutely love the world Danielle Paige has created as well as her characters. Now I'm hoping that we get another bind up of the next three novellas soon before the final book in the Dorothy Must Die trilogy comes out.
Thanks for reading my review!
-Cesar
At first when I read Dorothy Must Die, I did wonder how Dorothy came back to Oz. Since I don't own an e-reader, I was left in the dark for a while. Then when the bind up of the three prequel novellas came out, I was excited to find out more about Dorothy and the other characters.
No Place Like Oz. It was quite the ride reading from Dorothy's POV. What's even more surprising, I actually sympathized with her. I think we can all agree that we want more. And by that, I mean we want to explore the world, see new things, meet new people, have lots of great new experiences and live life. For Dorothy, she had lived her life when she was in Oz. Now that she's back in Kansas, she missed the way her life was in Oz. The friends she made. How she was a hero. And when the golden opportunity comes to go back to Oz, of course she took it! Reading No Place Like Oz did give an new insight to Dorothy and what led her to be a sweet little farm girl to become a tyrannical psycho bitch. And it was easy to sympathize with her. Until the end. Die witch!
4 emeralds.
The
4 emeralds.
The Wizard Returns. The Wizard also caught me by surprise. This is definitely an novella you have to read to understand more about the Wizard. Seeing him in Dorothy Must Die, while surprising, his character wasn't flushed out and he seemed one dimensional, despite him being secretive. In The Wizard Returns, we do get to learn more about his character and follow him on his own journey throughout certain points of Oz, learning valuable lessons as well as him trying to piece his memories as to how he has not returned to the Other Place and what type of person he was when he was ruling Oz. Here, we do get to see him stand out more and all I can say is that never trust anyone.
4 emeralds.
Overall, the stories were good enough for me to enjoy them. I absolutely love the world Danielle Paige has created as well as her characters. Now I'm hoping that we get another bind up of the next three novellas soon before the final book in the Dorothy Must Die trilogy comes out.
Thanks for reading my review!
-Cesar
April 10, 2017
No Place Like Oz : 4 stars
The Witch Must Burn : 3 stars
The Wizard Returns : 3 stars
The first novella definitely was my favorite, but all three of them do help a lot in helping readers understand who the characters were before Dorothy Must Die and how they became who they were.
The writing is okay in all of them - I don't think any of them really grabbed me like Dorothy Must Die did, but like I said, the first novella did appeal to me the most.
The Witch Must Burn : 3 stars
The Wizard Returns : 3 stars
The first novella definitely was my favorite, but all three of them do help a lot in helping readers understand who the characters were before Dorothy Must Die and how they became who they were.
The writing is okay in all of them - I don't think any of them really grabbed me like Dorothy Must Die did, but like I said, the first novella did appeal to me the most.
December 28, 2018
Less than impressive collection that did not quite manage to add the depth I expected. I was hoping the backstories would really enhance what has been an entertaining series, but they felt flat and lacking (although what, I cannot say). I will continue on, as I have devoted so much at this point it seems impossible not too. The one benefit is that the first novella easily solidified my disdain for Dorothy. So there is that.
dnf
December 17, 2016DNF
I'm just not into it. There's too many books/novellas/whatevers for this world, and I don't even like the original series all that much.
I'm just not into it. There's too many books/novellas/whatevers for this world, and I don't even like the original series all that much.
August 23, 2019
I like reading these prequel stories and getting more information about what happened in Oz before Amy gets there in the main novels. It's especially interesting seeing how Dorothy got back to Oz and changed into the evil bitch we know her as in the books. Each story had their own narrator which I liked and helped me separate each novella. This really makes me want to read the books over again, they're so good!
January 10, 2021
In Dorothy Must Die, we see very different versions of the Oz characters we known and love, and there's a lot of confusion and ambiguity around it. This collection of prequel novellas provides some much needed clarity. How did Dorothy Gale turn into an evil queen? Is she really evil, or is someone else behind it? Is Glinda a good witch or a bad witch? What happened to the Wizard when he left Oz? And what, exactly, is up with this Revolutionary Order of the Wicked? Lots of questions... and thankfully this book has lots of (entertaining) answers. It's a great addition to the Dorothy Must Die series.
October 27, 2016
This is post originally on Vivian's Book Pavilion
I’m finally reading this book!!!! I’ve wanted to read it after I finished The Wicked Will Rise and Yellow Brick War…and now…I finish it!!!! Congratulation to me!!! I’m now moving toward the second book of Dorothy Must Die Stories!!! By the way…huge announcement—I complete my Goodreads Reading Challenge!!!! 100 books complete!!!! Yeah!!!! More to go on now!!! Now…Dorothy Must Die Stories contains three short stories before Amy Gunn arrived Oz: No Place Like Oz, The Witch Must Burn, and The Wizard Return. I personally like The Witch Must Burn the most, I think it’s interesting…and no spoil little Dorothy.
No Place Like Oz
So…at first, we can see what’s the life Dorothy used to live, and what happen after she went back to Kansas. You know…Danielle Paige really created an unpleasant Dorothy, spoil little girl. When she was back in Kansas, she kept complaining about everything, literally EVERYTHING. She was unhappy about her presents, her classmates, her life…and so on. Please, although I had some sympathy for you different life in Kansas, but that’s what you choose! You’re supposed to know that! Besides, everyone knows no one will believe your story, normal people. (Although…I’m not normal…so I might be an exception.) So come on and shut up! That’s…what I think whenever there was Dorothy Gale.
However, even I hate her attitude and her behavior, I did love the part that she discovered her magic, that’s why I’d gave this novella 3.5 stars or 4. It’s quite an interesting journey for us and for Dorothy, and I almost scream during the last part, it’s so sad!!!! Poor aunt and uncle.
Sorry, didn’t you hear what Ozma said? Magic will corrupt you! But…to be honest, the magic that corrupt Dorothy was the best part of all. I know, I’m insane. Trust me, you’ll be as sane as I am if you read it. I love who the shoes affect Dorothy, unlike Amy’s Shoes, Dorothy’s red heel did great job at her…and beside, I’ve hate to say this, but it seems that Dorothy had a terrible taste. After she decided to make her own gown…or should I say…a mini skirt? That’s not appropriate for a banquet!!! Nevertheless, Dorothy just gotten insane with the read heel.
The Witch Must Burn
So this is the best novella in this book, I love it. And…there is Nox!!!!! How can I not like it? But I also remind the moment when Amy realized Jellia and Nox had a past. Yet…actually…nothing happened between Jellia and Noz!!! Or perhaps not in this novella…so Nox looks just as great as usual to me. I know, that’s not the point. So…how can I not love this book when spoil idiot Dorothy was gone, Jellia’s back, and Nox involved? Above all…The Revolutionary Order of the Wicked!!!!! Don’t you just love them?
All characters we love in the original series of Dorothy Must Die came back in this novella, and this is a really great novella!!!! 4 stars definitely. I love how strong Jellia was and how she managed to survive in the castle, let along when she was sent to Glinda’s Palace for some wicked operation. That part is truly creepy, those machines and magic and schemes…Glinda was truly a devil with an angle skin. Her heart was rotten and black…not even the wicked witch can win her. Oh perhaps…only evil queen. But all in all, I enjoy this novella really much, and I’d love to read more about Jellia’s secret life in the palace after she went back to Emerald Palace, for the better Oz. maybe we can have more? Please?
The Wizard Returns
To be honest…I don’t find this novella so interesting. Not bad, but not interesting as well. We all know that the Wizard involved in some creepy scheme in Dorothy Must Die, but we never know why. I was only so shock that he had such an ending, that plot twist was the best. Yet, what made him do those decision? Although after reading this novella, I couldn’t connect this Wizard and that Wizard…yet it somehow solves some problem and brings more questions. By the way, Pete appeared in this novella as well…and in order not to spoil you, I’m not telling you what my reaction was when I saw him.
Now, why did I say “more questions”? So in this novella, the Wizard lost all his memory, and tried to remember all. Yet, not without certain difficulties. However, after reading the ending, you might assume that the Wizard was about to be a good guy, I’m not telling you why, but yes, we could glimpse a little bit of goodness in him. Yet, when I was reading Dorothy Must Die series, I always assumed that the Wizard wasn’t a nice person. He wasn’t as wicked as Dorothy or her friends, however he definitely served his own good. So…that’s why I didn’t really enjoy this novella, since it gave me more questions, and the trials of Wizard weren’t really exciting as well. There were just…normal.
I’m finally reading this book!!!! I’ve wanted to read it after I finished The Wicked Will Rise and Yellow Brick War…and now…I finish it!!!! Congratulation to me!!! I’m now moving toward the second book of Dorothy Must Die Stories!!! By the way…huge announcement—I complete my Goodreads Reading Challenge!!!! 100 books complete!!!! Yeah!!!! More to go on now!!! Now…Dorothy Must Die Stories contains three short stories before Amy Gunn arrived Oz: No Place Like Oz, The Witch Must Burn, and The Wizard Return. I personally like The Witch Must Burn the most, I think it’s interesting…and no spoil little Dorothy.
No Place Like Oz
So…at first, we can see what’s the life Dorothy used to live, and what happen after she went back to Kansas. You know…Danielle Paige really created an unpleasant Dorothy, spoil little girl. When she was back in Kansas, she kept complaining about everything, literally EVERYTHING. She was unhappy about her presents, her classmates, her life…and so on. Please, although I had some sympathy for you different life in Kansas, but that’s what you choose! You’re supposed to know that! Besides, everyone knows no one will believe your story, normal people. (Although…I’m not normal…so I might be an exception.) So come on and shut up! That’s…what I think whenever there was Dorothy Gale.
However, even I hate her attitude and her behavior, I did love the part that she discovered her magic, that’s why I’d gave this novella 3.5 stars or 4. It’s quite an interesting journey for us and for Dorothy, and I almost scream during the last part, it’s so sad!!!! Poor aunt and uncle.
The magic belonged to me.
Sorry, didn’t you hear what Ozma said? Magic will corrupt you! But…to be honest, the magic that corrupt Dorothy was the best part of all. I know, I’m insane. Trust me, you’ll be as sane as I am if you read it. I love who the shoes affect Dorothy, unlike Amy’s Shoes, Dorothy’s red heel did great job at her…and beside, I’ve hate to say this, but it seems that Dorothy had a terrible taste. After she decided to make her own gown…or should I say…a mini skirt? That’s not appropriate for a banquet!!! Nevertheless, Dorothy just gotten insane with the read heel.
The Witch Must Burn
So this is the best novella in this book, I love it. And…there is Nox!!!!! How can I not like it? But I also remind the moment when Amy realized Jellia and Nox had a past. Yet…actually…nothing happened between Jellia and Noz!!! Or perhaps not in this novella…so Nox looks just as great as usual to me. I know, that’s not the point. So…how can I not love this book when spoil idiot Dorothy was gone, Jellia’s back, and Nox involved? Above all…The Revolutionary Order of the Wicked!!!!! Don’t you just love them?
The Revolutionary Order of the Wicked. The only thing standing between Oz and its destruction.
All characters we love in the original series of Dorothy Must Die came back in this novella, and this is a really great novella!!!! 4 stars definitely. I love how strong Jellia was and how she managed to survive in the castle, let along when she was sent to Glinda’s Palace for some wicked operation. That part is truly creepy, those machines and magic and schemes…Glinda was truly a devil with an angle skin. Her heart was rotten and black…not even the wicked witch can win her. Oh perhaps…only evil queen. But all in all, I enjoy this novella really much, and I’d love to read more about Jellia’s secret life in the palace after she went back to Emerald Palace, for the better Oz. maybe we can have more? Please?
The Wizard Returns
To be honest…I don’t find this novella so interesting. Not bad, but not interesting as well. We all know that the Wizard involved in some creepy scheme in Dorothy Must Die, but we never know why. I was only so shock that he had such an ending, that plot twist was the best. Yet, what made him do those decision? Although after reading this novella, I couldn’t connect this Wizard and that Wizard…yet it somehow solves some problem and brings more questions. By the way, Pete appeared in this novella as well…and in order not to spoil you, I’m not telling you what my reaction was when I saw him.
Now, why did I say “more questions”? So in this novella, the Wizard lost all his memory, and tried to remember all. Yet, not without certain difficulties. However, after reading the ending, you might assume that the Wizard was about to be a good guy, I’m not telling you why, but yes, we could glimpse a little bit of goodness in him. Yet, when I was reading Dorothy Must Die series, I always assumed that the Wizard wasn’t a nice person. He wasn’t as wicked as Dorothy or her friends, however he definitely served his own good. So…that’s why I didn’t really enjoy this novella, since it gave me more questions, and the trials of Wizard weren’t really exciting as well. There were just…normal.
March 17, 2017
I rarely enjoy novellas, but this collection was really good.
June 11, 2016
overall rating: 3.5
generally, it's an interesting collection of short stories which expand on the world of the Dorothy Must Die series, featuring two strong novellas.
no place like oz
this story was probably my favorite; in Dorothy Must Die we already get Dorothy who is an utterly terrifying, ruthless villain. meanwhile, this novella follows her transformation from a sweet, kind hearted heroine known from The Wizard of Oz into a bloodthirsty monster - it was an interesting thing to see.
the witch must burn
the second novella focuses on Jellia's backstory prior to the first book, and how she got to join the revolutionary order of the wicked. i really enjoyed getting some insight into her character and the story itself confirms how brave Jellia is despite the lingering dangers. glinda, one of the witches, isn't in fact the main character, but she plays a large role in this story; yes, dorothy is the major villain, but glinda does appear to be even more terrifying than her protegee. she's a seemingly sweet, beautiful woman who's truly bloodthirsty and apparently manipulates dorothy into many of the senseless, violent acts she had comitted. i daresay that dorothy and her twisted, nightmarish companions aren't nearly as creepy as a witch in pink.
the wizard returns
unfortunately, this novella didn't manage to hold my interest - as much as i liked the titular wizard and Pete in the book, i don't feel eager to read about how they wander through oz. perhaps i'll get to it someday.
generally, it's an interesting collection of short stories which expand on the world of the Dorothy Must Die series, featuring two strong novellas.
no place like oz
this story was probably my favorite; in Dorothy Must Die we already get Dorothy who is an utterly terrifying, ruthless villain. meanwhile, this novella follows her transformation from a sweet, kind hearted heroine known from The Wizard of Oz into a bloodthirsty monster - it was an interesting thing to see.
the witch must burn
the second novella focuses on Jellia's backstory prior to the first book, and how she got to join the revolutionary order of the wicked. i really enjoyed getting some insight into her character and the story itself confirms how brave Jellia is despite the lingering dangers. glinda, one of the witches, isn't in fact the main character, but she plays a large role in this story; yes, dorothy is the major villain, but glinda does appear to be even more terrifying than her protegee. she's a seemingly sweet, beautiful woman who's truly bloodthirsty and apparently manipulates dorothy into many of the senseless, violent acts she had comitted. i daresay that dorothy and her twisted, nightmarish companions aren't nearly as creepy as a witch in pink.
the wizard returns
unfortunately, this novella didn't manage to hold my interest - as much as i liked the titular wizard and Pete in the book, i don't feel eager to read about how they wander through oz. perhaps i'll get to it someday.
July 16, 2015
I thought it was good but there was not that much action in it. I think if you are going to read this book read Dorothy must die before Dorothy must die stories. It will make so much more sense.
December 19, 2025
These novellas were a really solid return to Oz and honestly did exactly what prequel stories should do: add depth, context, and emotional weight without overstaying their welcome. Each story peels back another layer of how Oz became so broken, and how power, manipulation, and fear were already rotting things from the inside long before Amy ever showed up.
That said, let me be very clear: I truly cannot stand the Wizard. I don’t think I’ve ever liked him in any iteration of Oz, and this series did nothing to change that. He just sucks. He is cowardly, self-serving, and consistently hides behind illusions of authority while causing real harm. Watching his influence seep through these stories only made my disdain stronger.
What worked especially well here was seeing how ordinary people in Oz were affected by larger forces they didn’t fully understand. The writing makes the world feel lived-in and precarious, and it reinforces the idea that Oz didn’t fall apart overnight, it was chipped away piece by piece. The tone is dark, tense, and quietly tragic in places, which fits the Dorothy Must Die universe perfectly.
I docked a small fraction of a star only because some of the stories felt like they ended just as they were really heating up, but overall this collection strengthened my appreciation for the series and made the main storyline feel even more impactful.
If you enjoy morally gray worlds, dismantled fairy tales, and watching powerful figures get exposed for the frauds they are (again, looking at you, Wizard), these novellas are absolutely worth the read.
That said, let me be very clear: I truly cannot stand the Wizard. I don’t think I’ve ever liked him in any iteration of Oz, and this series did nothing to change that. He just sucks. He is cowardly, self-serving, and consistently hides behind illusions of authority while causing real harm. Watching his influence seep through these stories only made my disdain stronger.
What worked especially well here was seeing how ordinary people in Oz were affected by larger forces they didn’t fully understand. The writing makes the world feel lived-in and precarious, and it reinforces the idea that Oz didn’t fall apart overnight, it was chipped away piece by piece. The tone is dark, tense, and quietly tragic in places, which fits the Dorothy Must Die universe perfectly.
I docked a small fraction of a star only because some of the stories felt like they ended just as they were really heating up, but overall this collection strengthened my appreciation for the series and made the main storyline feel even more impactful.
If you enjoy morally gray worlds, dismantled fairy tales, and watching powerful figures get exposed for the frauds they are (again, looking at you, Wizard), these novellas are absolutely worth the read.
April 4, 2020
There are 3 stories in this book:
1) No Place Like Oz
2) The Witch Must Burn
3) The Wizard Returns
All 3 stories are from Dorothy, Jellia and the Wizard's point of view respectively. As I never read Dorothy Must Die before, by reading this, I hope it can prepare me more when I finally do read it.
This book has been a fast read for me. Overall, it is an interesting one.
1) No Place Like Oz
2) The Witch Must Burn
3) The Wizard Returns
All 3 stories are from Dorothy, Jellia and the Wizard's point of view respectively. As I never read Dorothy Must Die before, by reading this, I hope it can prepare me more when I finally do read it.
This book has been a fast read for me. Overall, it is an interesting one.
March 1, 2021
The stories are good. How Dorothy twist her sweet personality into a greedy brat. It was also a sad story and how darkness consume her mind. The Witch Must Burn was really interesting and good. After reading The Wizard Returns made you understand on what side he is actually is and how despicable the character is like Dorothy... or worst.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 15, 2017
Second read
I loved this book a lot more than the first time around. I had a lot more appreciation for the characters and their backstories. Need to get a move on into the next story!
First read
finished this book late lat night and I have to say that I didnt enjoy it as much as I hoped I would. The only story I really loved was The Witch Must Burn and the rest were to long and a bit boring in my opinion..
I loved this book a lot more than the first time around. I had a lot more appreciation for the characters and their backstories. Need to get a move on into the next story!
First read
finished this book late lat night and I have to say that I didnt enjoy it as much as I hoped I would. The only story I really loved was The Witch Must Burn and the rest were to long and a bit boring in my opinion..
July 16, 2015
And this book is a bind up of the most recent Dorothy Must Die novellas that take place before the events of the first book.
My rating on each novella:
No Place Like Oz: 5 stars
The Witch Must Burn: 4.5 stars
The Wizard Returns: 3 stars
Overall a good read and at least we get to witness Dorothy's road to corruption which was nice.
My rating on each novella:
No Place Like Oz: 5 stars
The Witch Must Burn: 4.5 stars
The Wizard Returns: 3 stars
Overall a good read and at least we get to witness Dorothy's road to corruption which was nice.
March 18, 2016
I liked this one. It was good.
December 27, 2017
These companion stories are great! Really gives you more motivations for the characters in the series.
October 9, 2021
Reseña completa en Books FD
Dorothy Must Die: Stories Vol. 1, en general ha sido interesante ver y conocer más estos personajes, conocerlos antes de lo que sucede en la primera novela y así poder entenderlos o justificarlos de alguna manera. En el caso de Dorothy (#0.1 No Place Like Oz) y del Mago (0.3 The Wizard Returns), los humanizó un poco más Danielle y verlos de esta manera cambia mucho la visión que tenemos de ellos antes de que se “corrompieran” y en el caso de Jellia (# 0.2 The Witch Must Burn) conocerla realmente, incluso cosas que ella desconocía de sí misma y en ese descubrimiento conocer detalles que nadie más tenía sobre otros personajes. Con una pluma ligera y fluida he disfrutado leer estas historias y sinceramente creo que complementan muy bien lo leído e incluso me atrevo a decir que son un poquito mejor que las novelas extensas.
Dorothy Must Die: Stories Vol. 1, en general ha sido interesante ver y conocer más estos personajes, conocerlos antes de lo que sucede en la primera novela y así poder entenderlos o justificarlos de alguna manera. En el caso de Dorothy (#0.1 No Place Like Oz) y del Mago (0.3 The Wizard Returns), los humanizó un poco más Danielle y verlos de esta manera cambia mucho la visión que tenemos de ellos antes de que se “corrompieran” y en el caso de Jellia (# 0.2 The Witch Must Burn) conocerla realmente, incluso cosas que ella desconocía de sí misma y en ese descubrimiento conocer detalles que nadie más tenía sobre otros personajes. Con una pluma ligera y fluida he disfrutado leer estas historias y sinceramente creo que complementan muy bien lo leído e incluso me atrevo a decir que son un poquito mejor que las novelas extensas.
November 26, 2021
No Place Like Oz: of the three stories this was the best. It truly acted as a novella/prequel should and have light onto something not fully understood in the main series. Overall, you expect Dorothy to act much like she did in the original books so when she starts off as just a frustrated kid you feel for her. Then as the book progresses, she doesn’t exactly become wicked, she more becomes selfish. And the way Em and Henry got taken out, I knew there was a tragedy surrounding them but I didn’t expect them to get taken out wicked witch of the east style.
The Witch Must Burn: I can see why Jellia might have been chosen as the focus of the story, but after reading it, it didn’t give light to anything really, only more questions. And seeing as she was only a secondary character in the first book, I could’ve thought of others I’d be more interested in a story for. After reading this one, I’ve now got more questions about Jellia and fairies as well as the machine for mining magic. All this served to do was explain how Jellia became a spy in the Emerald Palace.
The Wizard Returns: of the three, this was the most fun. Again, the wizard was a very minor character in the series, so he didn’t serve as much of an insight. It was interesting the switch from first to third person when he becomes hex.
The Witch Must Burn: I can see why Jellia might have been chosen as the focus of the story, but after reading it, it didn’t give light to anything really, only more questions. And seeing as she was only a secondary character in the first book, I could’ve thought of others I’d be more interested in a story for. After reading this one, I’ve now got more questions about Jellia and fairies as well as the machine for mining magic. All this served to do was explain how Jellia became a spy in the Emerald Palace.
The Wizard Returns: of the three, this was the most fun. Again, the wizard was a very minor character in the series, so he didn’t serve as much of an insight. It was interesting the switch from first to third person when he becomes hex.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 31, 2021
Back before Amy Gumm came to Oz there was only one hero from Kansas who rode in on a tornado to save the day.
Dorothy ends up finding out her home back in Kansas isn't quite so cozy anymore after visiting the magical land of Oz.
Jellia, the emerald palace's head maid, discovers that not only does she have special powers, but also that she's not the only one who wants to get rid of Dorothy.
And the wizard still has a few tricks up his sleeve after being sent on a fairy quest.
I really enjoyed these three short prequel novellas. It was really cool to get a glimpse into Dorothy, the wizard and Jellia's pasts leading up to Amy Gumm's arrival.
While reading the Dorothy Must Die series I was really curious about why, when and how Dorothy became the evil girl she was when Amy landed in Oz. Her novella explains exactly that.
If you want to check these out, you can read them before or after the original series without being lost.
Dorothy ends up finding out her home back in Kansas isn't quite so cozy anymore after visiting the magical land of Oz.
Jellia, the emerald palace's head maid, discovers that not only does she have special powers, but also that she's not the only one who wants to get rid of Dorothy.
And the wizard still has a few tricks up his sleeve after being sent on a fairy quest.
I really enjoyed these three short prequel novellas. It was really cool to get a glimpse into Dorothy, the wizard and Jellia's pasts leading up to Amy Gumm's arrival.
While reading the Dorothy Must Die series I was really curious about why, when and how Dorothy became the evil girl she was when Amy landed in Oz. Her novella explains exactly that.
If you want to check these out, you can read them before or after the original series without being lost.
July 19, 2019
Some people don't read the books in between the main novels, I being one of them, but I decided to read this 3 set that was set before Dorothy Must Die. I'm so glad I did. It really should either be the series' first book, or a part of the regular series, because it explains soooo much. The first part tells us how Dorothy got back to Oz. She was fine, normal, sweet. But she was wearing the ruby slippers and they were corrupting her. Glenda was corrupting her. We learn all this and we learn why Dorothy turns the way she does. The second part is told by the maid turned rebel. I was practically screaming, You die, you die!!! the entire time, knowing she does in Dorothy Must Die, and how. The last part is told by the wizard and we learn how he becomes a part of the rebellion as well, but he's also in it for himself. Overall, this was a great way to start the series and if you don't read this, you miss out on a lot.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 28, 2018
These three novellas were all enjoyable, but the first two (No Place Like Oz and The Witch Must Burn) were definitely the best! I did not care much for the wizard's story. I really loved reading how Dorothy became so wicked! I read these after reading the first 3 novels in the series and I'm glad I did...even though you're supposed you read them before...I looked at the characters in a different and more informed way.
July 29, 2017
These were just ok, really. I did not really see any distinct voices between the two first person views of Dorothy and Jellia. The Wizard's story was probably the best written of the three. I felt no connection to any of the characters, which is not necessarily a bad thing, but that remains to be seen. It should be a decent addition/ introduction to the main series.
October 26, 2018
Review: Dorothy Must Die is one of my favorite series of all time, and I’m shocked it took me so long to get to these stories! I really loved the first 2 stories in this collection but did not care to much about the one with the wizard. If you are a fan of the series I highly recommend you reading these stories!
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