The Wizard of Oz

The Wizard of Oz is considered a classic children’s story. Written by L. Frank Baum in 1900, the story contains likeable characters, intriguing and magical storylines, and endless possibilities to reimagine the text. It’s no surprise the story holds such a special place in people’s hearts!

The original story focuses on Dorothy, a young girl from Kansas who is accidentally transported to the magical land of Oz. On a mission to return home, she embarks on a journey to the Emerald City to ask the all-powerful Wizard for his help. Along the way, Dorothy befriends the Scarecrow, the Tin Woodman, and the Cowardly Lion, who join her on her quest, all while avoiding the villainy of the Wicked Witch of the West. Inspired by the first book, L. Frank Baum went on to write 13 more books set in the same world, introducing readers to fascinating new characters and storylines.  

Creators have adapted the story into films, plays, and musicals—the most notable being the 1939 Wizard of Oz film starring Judy Garland. More recently, the Wicked book series, a retelling of the original story from the perspective of the Wicked Witch, Elphaba, was adapted into a musical and a film of the same name.  

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