Ozma of Oz (Oz Series Book 3)
#3 of 3 in Nerdy Dozen Series
on Goodreads (28,092)
What’s inside...
In 'Ozma of Oz,' the third book in L. Frank Baum's Oz series, Dorothy Gale is swept off to the magical land of Ev by a storm at sea. Accompanied by a talking chicken named Billina, Dorothy discovers a mechanical man, Tik-Tok, and together they meet Princess Ozma of Oz, who is on a mission to rescue the royal family of Ev from the clutches of the Nome King. Along the way, they encounter a variety of whimsical characters, including the Wheelers and the Hungry Tiger. They face numerous challenges, including the Nome King's dangerous guessing game, which transforms people into ornaments. With cleverness and bravery, the group overcomes obstacles, rescues the royal family, and Dorothy eventually finds her way back to Kansas. The story is a fantastical adventure that explores themes of friendship, loyalty, and the joy of homecoming.
Discussion points
What do you think about Ozma's leadership qualities and decisions? How would you handle the challenges she faced?
Why do you think Tik-Tok behaves the way he does? Can you think of a time when you felt like you had to keep going, even when it was tough?
How do the different characters in the book show courage or friendship? Who do you admire the most and why?
What role do you think magic plays in the story? If you had magic powers, how would you use them?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to think critically about the characters’ actions and motivations, fostering deeper comprehension and empathy.
Draw connections between the challenges characters face in the book and real-life situations your child might encounter, helping them relate to the content on a personal level.
Ask your child how they might feel in similar circumstances as the characters, promoting emotional intelligence and self-awareness.
Highlight the value of perseverance and friendship depicted in the story, reinforcing these important life skills through discussion.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Resilience in the face of challenges
Explanation: Dorothy displays resilience throughout 'Ozma of Oz' as she faces various obstacles in her journey to rescue the royal family of Ev from the Nome King.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to remain steadfast and tackle difficulties in their own lives, understanding that persistence and courage are key to overcoming obstacles.
Example Lesson: The importance of friendship and teamwork
Explanation: The characters, including Dorothy, the mechanical man Tik-Tok, and Princess Ozma, collaborate and support each other throughout their adventures, showcasing the power of working together.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the value of cooperation and helping one another, fostering a sense of community and shared achievement in group activities and projects.
Example Lesson: Empathy and understanding different perspectives
Explanation: Throughout the book, characters often encounter beings and situations that are unfamiliar and strange. Their efforts to understand and empathize with others' viewpoints are crucial to resolving conflicts.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to approach differences with openness and curiosity, promoting inclusivity and understanding in diverse social settings.
Example Lesson: Courage to stand up for what is right
Explanation: Dorothy often takes a stand against wrongdoings, such as when opposing the Nome King's enslavement of the royal family, demonstrating moral fortitude.
Real-World Application: This lesson can inspire children to uphold fairness and justice, encouraging them to speak up and act against injustice in their surroundings.