The Wonderful Wizard of Oz: The perfect gift with super-sized pop-ups!
Once/Now/Then/After Series
on Goodreads (73)
What’s inside...
This adaptation of L. Frank Baum's classic tale, 'The Wonderful Wizard of Oz', is brought to life by paper engineer Robert Sabuda in a pop-up format. The story follows Dorothy and her dog Toto as they are swept away by a tornado to the magical land of Oz. Along the way, they meet the Scarecrow, the Tin Woodman, and the Cowardly Lion, and together they travel to see the Wizard of Oz, each seeking something they desire. The book features stunning pop-up artistry that adds a new dimension to the storytelling. This commemorative pop-up book by Robert Sabuda celebrates the 100th anniversary of the original publication of 'The Wizard of Oz'. It presents a shorter version of L. Frank Baum's book, with artwork in the style of W. W. Denslow.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
2-6
Length
14 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How do you think Dorothy felt when she first arrived in Oz, and have you ever felt similar when you were in a new place?
What qualities do you admire in each of the main characters like the Scarecrow, Tin Man, and Cowardly Lion?
If you could have one of the magical powers shown in the book, which one would you choose and why?
What does the idea of 'home' mean to Dorothy, and what does 'home' mean to you?
How do the characters help each other overcome obstacles, and how do you help your friends?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and opinions about the story, validating their feelings and views.
Draw parallels between the story and your child’s own experiences to make the discussion more relatable and insightful.
Ask follow-up questions that help your child think deeper about the themes and messages in the book.
Use expressions and body language as you discuss to show your enthusiasm and encourage a lively conversation.
Summarize parts of the story together to reinforce understanding and enhance memory retention of details.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Courage and Self-Confidence
Explanation: Throughout the journey to see the Wizard of Oz, the Cowardly Lion learns that true courage comes from facing fears. This realization is vividly demonstrated when he decides to save his friends despite feeling scared.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to face their own fears and believe in their own abilities, even in situations where they feel unsure or scared.
Example Lesson: The Importance of Friendship and Teamwork
Explanation: Dorothy, the Scarecrow, the Tin Man, and the Lion all work together to overcome obstacles. Their unity and mutual support exemplify the power of teamwork.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the value of collaborating and supporting others in group settings like school projects or sports teams.
Example Lesson: Self-Discovery and Personal Growth
Explanation: Each character in the story sets out on a journey believing they lack something crucial—brains, heart, courage. In the end, they all realize they had these qualities within them all along.
Real-World Application: This can encourage children to undertake personal journeys, recognizing and developing the qualities they already possess.
Example Lesson: Resilience in the Face of Adversity
Explanation: Dorothy's relentless pursuit to return home despite numerous challenges illustrates resilience.
Real-World Application: Children learn the significance of perseverance when confronting difficulties, understanding that they can overcome hurdles with determination.
Example Lesson: The Power of Imagination
Explanation: The imaginative world of Oz with its intriguing characters and landscapes fuels creative thinking.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to use their own imaginations in creative play, art, or problem-solving, broadening their cognitive abilities and enhancing their capacity for innovative thinking.