The Wizard of Oz (Tor Classics) by L. Frank Baum Summary and Reviews
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Book Reviews of The Wizard of Oz (Tor Classics)
Book Review: A magical tale for readers of all ages.
Summary: 5 Stars
In this classic, Baum describes the tale of poor Dorothy, who is hurled by a cyclone away from her uncle and aunt in Kansas into a strange and magical world of wizards and witches. Fortunately Dorothy has the help of several companions that she meets in this new world - a stuffed scarecrow who wants brains, a tin woodsman who wants a heart, and a cowardly lion who wants courage. Together with Dorothy - who wants a return trip to Kansas - they travel to the emerald city where Oz is wizard, to ask him to make their wishes come true. Their journey is fraught with adventures, and when they finally meet Oz they discover a terrible truth, that leads them into even more challenges and adventures. The magical fantasy of this tale has pleased readers of all ages for a century, and it's not hard to see why. Baum spins a wonderfully enchanting tale that includes wicked witches, flying monkeys, talking mice, and other fantastic creatures. Is this book more than just a fantasy thrill? Some literary critics have proposed that Baum - a strong believer in individualism and self-confidence - is working with themes about self-esteem and self-reliance. This is quite plausible, especially considering that the brains, heart and courage sought by the scarecrow, woodsman and lion are abilities that they clearly already possess - they just need to recognize them and use them. And Dorothy herself discovers that when the wizard can't help her, she must and can rely on herself. Other literary critics have claimed that "The Wizard of Oz" needs to be read as an elaborate political allegory where the various characters represent various social classes and financial structures - a not impossible suggestion, but one that's somewhat difficult to defend. Ultimately, however, "The Wizard of Oz" is best enjoyed as a wonderful story. That doesn't mean it is any less of a contribution to English literature, because when appreciated as a brilliant story, you're sure to come back to it again and again, as are your children and grandchildren. It's precisely this universal appeal that makes "The Wizard of Oz" a true classic.
Book Review: What more could you ask from a book for kids, or adults?
Summary: 5 Stars
For some reason, this terrific book is largely unread. Perhaps because we are all so familiar with the movie, people just don't seem to read the book. That's too bad, because it's great. Baum has created a uniquely American fairy tale. It teaches several wonderful lessons: the Wizard can't help you, but you can help yourself and there's no place like home. What more could you ask from a book for kids, or adults?
GRADE: A+
Book Review: A Great Book
Summary: 4 Stars
The Wonderful Wizard of Oz is a classical story about a girl and her dog that get trapped in a twister. She wakes up in a magical land and asks how she can get home. They tell her she has to follow the yellow brick road. She meets people on her way to the Wizard. The Scarecrow needs brains, the Tinman needs a heart, the Lion needs courage and Dorothy needs to go home. They meet strange things on the way to The Good Witch of the South. I like the book because it's interesting and exciting and that's why I think you should read it.Book Review: This volume has the original Denslow illustrations
Summary: 5 Stars
Books of Wonder has put out this reproduction of the original 1900 edition with the original, delightful illustrations. I first read this Oz book at age 45 and was well entertained by its imaginativeness and gentle philosophy. I intend on reading more Oz books in the series. L. Frank Baum wrote well. He could be philosophical, sly, or just a master of plain, simple narrative. I could have done without about 25 pages (an editor could have helped), but, by and large, the book is a classic and not just for children. The Lion, Scarecrow, and Tinman will live forever!Book Review: Books of Wonder's "OZ" is a truly magical place!
Summary: 5 Stars
Most of us have taken a trip down the Yellow Brick Road, whether through the MGM classic or one of countless literary incarnations on the bookshelves. This version, by far, is the best. The reader actually travels to the Emerald City and beyond as its author L. Frank Baum intended. Mr. Baum put up the money himself to publish the first edition of "The Wizard of Oz," because no established company would touch a "modern" American fairy tale. As a result, few books were actually produced, but rarely has an author had such control over his finished product. Here's your chance to own a reproduced copy of his original vision! Books of Wonder has done an outstanding job with the whole Oz series, and the love and care shows on every page. If you ever enjoyed this tale of Dorothy and her friends, order away without reservation.