Hailed as the first original American fairy tale, The Wizard of Oz inspired countless sequels and imitations, as well as the classic American musical film and the Broadway musical The Wiz. In L. Frank Baum's imaginative story, Dorothy Gale takes a magical journey from the American heartland into the wonderful land of Oz to meet the Tin Woodman, the Scarecrow, and the Cowardly Lion.

The Wizard of Oz (Oz Series #1)

FROM OUR EDITORS

Faithful to L. Frank Baum's original story, this condensed version, which uses Baum's language, is a highly visual interpretation of the classic American fairy tale--a journey of colors as well as one through lands & adventures. 10" x 13". All ages

FROM THE PUBLISHER

Hailed as the first original American fairy tale, The Wizard of Oz inspired countless sequels and imitations, as well as the classic American musical film and the Broadway musical The Wiz. In L. Frank Baum's imaginative story, Dorothy Gale takes a magical journey from the American heartland into the wonderful land of Oz to meet the Tin Woodman, the Scarecrow, and the Cowardly Lion.

FROM THE CRITICS

Children's Literature

Using a condensed version of Baum's original 1900 text, the illustrator provides us with his unique interpretation of this American fantasy. Dorothy and Toto still meet Scarecrow, Tin Man and Cowardly Lion on their way to Oz. Obstacles like the poppy field, flying monkeys and the fake wizard are met and overcome. Dorothy discovers what is truly valuable in life¿¿¿returning to gray old Kansas and the loving arms of her aunt and uncle. Santore has fun drawing the Cowardly Lion towering over his companions, bending the Wicked Witch of the West at outrageous angles, and painting Oz green, greener, and greenest. This shorter, centennial-celebration version with dynamic graphics may be just right to read to the younger set who wiggle too much to sit through the entire original version. 2000, Random House, $21.95. Ages 6 to 12. Reviewer: Chris Gill