The Patchwork Girl of Oz (Oz Series Book 7)
#7 in Oz Series
on Goodreads (9,265)
What’s inside...
The Patchwork Girl of Oz is the seventh book in the Land of Oz series by L. Frank Baum. It follows the story of Ojo, a Munchkin boy living in the wilderness with his uncle, who seeks the help of a local magician, Dr. Pipt, to avoid starvation. During their visit, they witness the magical Powder of Life, which can animate any object it touches. Meanwhile, Glinda discovers someone using a telegraph to contact Oz and sets up a telegraph tower managed by the Shaggy Man. This book is part of Baum's series of thirteen Oz sequels and other fantasy novels. Any profits from sales of the book support the Freeriver Community project, which promotes community well-being. Originally published in 1913, this complete and unabridged hardcover edition continues the adventures set in the magical Land of Oz.
Discussion points
How do you think Scraps, the Patchwork Girl, felt when she first came to life? What would you feel if you were in her place?
Why is it important for Scraps and her friends to find Dr. Pipt’s lost magical powder? How does working together help them on their adventure?
What do you think about the different characters Scraps meets throughout her journey? Which one would you like to be friends with and why?
How does Scraps change from the beginning of the book to the end? What do you think helped her change?
If you could add another character to the story, who would it be and what role would they play in the adventure?
Tip: Role play these questions
While discussing the book, relate Scraps' feelings and actions to real-life situations that your child might encounter, helping them connect emotionally with the character.
Encourage your child to imagine and describe a new adventure for Scraps, reinforcing their creative thinking and storytelling skills.
Ask your child to draw their favorite scene or character from the book. This visual expression can deepen their understanding and engagement with the story.
Create a 'What if?' game where you and your child change key events in the book and discuss how those changes would affect the story.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of friendship and teamwork
Explanation: Throughout the story, Scraps – the Patchwork Girl, along with her companions, showcases the power of working together to overcome obstacles and adversaries.
Real-World Application: Children learn the value of collaborating with others and how joint efforts can achieve goals that might seem difficult individually.
Example Lesson: Acceptance of differences
Explanation: Scraps is different from other characters in both appearance and personality, but she is embraced by her friends. This teaches the importance of accepting and celebrating differences.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to be open and accepting towards peers who might look or behave differently, promoting inclusivity.
Example Lesson: Creativity and resourcefulness
Explanation: The titular character, the Patchwork Girl, uses her unique abilities to solve problems creatively throughout the book.
Real-World Application: Children are inspired to use their imagination and think outside the box when faced with challenges.
Example Lesson: Courage in facing fears
Explanation: Characters in the book frequently face frightening situations, but they show bravery and tackle their fears head-on.
Real-World Application: This story can help children understand the importance of confronting fears and the personal growth that comes from it.
Example Lesson: Consequences of actions
Explanation: The narrative vividly illustrates how actions, good or bad, can have significant consequences, as seen through the characters' adventures.
Real-World Application: It teaches children to consider the outcomes of their actions, encouraging responsibility and foresight.