The Wizard of Oz
Short Classics Series
What’s inside...
A stylish new edition of the classic children's story, 'The Wizard of Oz', features incredible new illustrations and an adapted text for younger readers. Dorothy, a young girl living with her aunt, uncle, and dog Toto in Kansas, is transported by a violent storm to the magical land of Oz. To return home, she must follow the yellow brick road to meet the Wizard of Oz, making new friends and facing dangers along the way. This edition, with its accessible and engaging text, provides the perfect introduction for a new generation to this beloved tale, which was first published in 1900.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
7-10
Length
64 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think courage means after reading about the Cowardly Lion's adventures?
How do the Scarecrow, Tin Man, and Lion show they had what they were seeking all along?
Why do you think Dorothy wanted to return home, and how does her idea of home change throughout the story?
How would you have handled the situations that Dorothy faced in Oz?
What does the Wizard of Oz teach us about friendship and helping each other?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their feelings about the characters' journeys and relate them to their own experiences. Ask open-ended questions that prompt deeper thinking and connection with the book's themes. Share your interpretations and thoughts about the story to model engaged reading. Utilize the vibrant illustrations and vivid descriptions in the book to foster imagination and discussion. Emphasize the moral lessons and character traits like bravery, love, and intelligence with personal anecdotes.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Courage and self-belief
Explanation: The Cowardly Lion, despite being fearful, continually acts with bravery as the journey progresses, learning to believe in his own courage.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of facing fears and the power of self-belief in overcoming challenges in their daily lives.
Example Lesson: The value of friendship
Explanation: Dorothy’s journey through Oz is made successful with the help and support of her friends, the Scarecrow, Tin Man, and Cowardly Lion.
Real-World Application: This teaches children to appreciate the friends around them and shows how teamwork and cooperation can help overcome obstacles.
Example Lesson: The importance of a heart and empathy
Explanation: The Tin Man's desire for a heart highlights the importance of empathy and caring for others.
Real-World Application: It encourages children to be compassionate and considerate, fostering emotional intelligence and interpersonal skills.
Example Lesson: Using intelligence and problem-solving
Explanation: The Scarecrow’s wish for a brain underscores the value of using intellect to solve problems, even though he often comes up with smart ideas.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to think critically and use their intellect to navigate through their educational paths and daily life hurdles.
Example Lesson: Believing in oneself
Explanation: Dorothy’s realization that she had the power to return home all along teaches the significance of self-reliance and believing in one's abilities.
Real-World Application: This can motivate children to trust their capabilities and feel empowered in managing personal and school-related tasks.