Book details
Oz Collection: The Wonderful Wizard of Oz, The Emerald City of Oz, The Marvelous Land of Oz
Description
The Wonderful Wizard of OzOne of the true classics of American literature. Originally published in 1900, it was the first truly American fairy tale, as Baum crafted a wonderful fantasy, peopled with memorable characters—a cornfield scarecrow, Tin Woodman, and a humbug wizard. Follow the adventures of young Dorothy Gale and her dog, Toto, as their Kansas house is swept away by a cyclone and they find themselves in a strange land called Oz. Here she meets the Munchkins and joins the Scarecrow, the Tinman, and the Cowardly Lion on an unforgettable journey to the Emerald City.The Emerald City of Oz Dorothy Gale and her Uncle Henry and Aunt Em are coming to live in Oz permanently. Dorothy then takes them on a tour of Oz, and during their journey they encounter King Kleaver with his Spoon Brigade and Miss Cuttenclip of the land of paper dolls. Meanwhile, the wicked Nome King has joined forces with the horrible Growleywogs, the terrifying Whimsies and the wicked Phanfasms in a plot to capture the Emerald City.The Marvelous Land of OzTip, a young Gillikin boy, runs away from his cruel guardian, the wicked witch Mombi. He meets up with the Scarecrow, now ruler of the Emerald City, the Tin Woodman, many new friends, and an army of girls who want to overthrow the Scarecrow. Before it's over, Tip finds out that he is part of a dark secret from Oz's past.
Age
7-8
Text complexity
proficient
Why to read
- Classic Literature: The Oz Collection is a cornerstone of classic American children's literature. Reading these stories gives insight into the early 20th-century storytelling and the cultural context of the time, offering a rich historical perspective.
- Imagination and Creativity: L. Frank Baum's vivid world-building and imaginative characters inspire creativity in readers. The fantastical elements of Oz, from flying monkeys to talking lions, encourage readers to expand their own imaginations and think outside the box.
- Life Lessons and Morals: Throughout the Oz series, Baum weaves important life lessons about bravery, friendship, self-confidence, and the value of home. These stories provide moral compasses and teach readers, especially children, about the virtues of courage and the importance of self-discovery.
- Cultural Impact: Understanding the Oz series is key to appreciating its vast influence on literature, film, and popular culture. From the iconic 1939 film adaptation to various reinterpretations and references in modern media, the Oz books have left an indelible mark on the arts and continue to be relevant in discussions about American cultural heritage.