The Wonderful Wizard of Oz

I finally got around to reading THE WONDERFUL WIZARD OF OZ thanks to my daughter. We decided to read a chapter a day (although we missed some days due to my work schedule). Like millions of Americans, I watched the movie many times. I bought this copy of the book (and THE LAND OF OZ) around the time of the centennial more for the introductions and essays than for the stories themselves. But now my little one is ready for longer stories and we can start out with some classics.

I was very entertained by THE WONDERFUL WIZARD OF OZ. It was interesting to see where the movie came from and how the story differed from what was filmed. The language may have been a little old-fashioned, but it was still readable. Finally, Oz stretches your imagination and makes you look for the wonder behind the curtain.

Reading aloud is a wonderful experience. It gives you an idea of cadence, character and construction. And it lets you make silly voices. My interpretation of the Tin Woodman was particularly nasal sounding. I hope my daughter and I can continue for many years. I am already developing the list of books to come which includes Adams, Gaiman, Hodgson, Wall, Grahame, and Carroll.