The Wizard of Oz:
Title: The Wizard of Oz
Author: L. Frank Baum
Literacy level: Beginner
Rating: 4/5
Published in the year 1900, with several reprints and
adaptations. After a tornado ravages her aunt and uncle’s house, Dorothy, a
12-year-old girl, and her dog Toto, were magically taken to a world of pure
imagination. This mystical land is ruled by four grand witches (one for every
cardinal point), two good ones and two evil ones, and one Wizard. When she
arrived, all she did was look in awe at everything. Nevertheless, her desire
was to return immediately to her aunt and uncle back in Kansas. In a journey
full of strange creatures and peculiar new friends, Dorothy must travel great
distances to meet Oz, in order to go back home. Everyone has a wish, and the
only one that may or may not grant them is the great Wizard, Oz.
Review: Certainly, a literary classic. Shows the extravagant imagination of children and it’s an easy book to follow. The perfect story for children to learn values such as courage, love, and intelligence are traits you can acquire through experience. Of course, it is a kid's book, which may seem simple or childish at times, but it could be an enjoyable read for those that are interested in knowing the journey of Dorothy and Toto through the land of Oz. I was not disappointed, even after being told the story many times, reading gives a new perspective in the imagination. Dorothy represents naïve youth and how it explores its atmosphere. The lion, the courage we all have but lack enough audacity or confidence. The tin man reflects the inner appreciation and affection we all have but cannot fully understand. While the scarecrow defines that intelligence goes hand in hand with experience and brings out the wisdom inside of us.
ISBN: 978-0-141-32102-8