A timeless classic which has entertained children and adults for generations. In the heart of rural Kansas, young Dorothy Gale lives on a farm with her uncle and aunt. A violent tornado sweeps her and her pet dog Toto to the magical and colourful world of Oz. Her house lands on the Wicked Witch of the East, and her long suffering minions, the munchkins, are grateful to Dorothy. Dorothy just longs to go back to Kansas, and the munchkins and the Good Witch entreat her to approach the great and wise wizard Oz in the Emerald City.
Dorothy follows the Yellow Brick Road towards the Emerald City, and picks up three traveling companions along the way: A cowardly lion who wishes to get courage, a tin woodman who wants a heart, and a scarecrow who desires a brain. Together, they face various challenges and magical creatures on their path to the Emerald City, strengthening their bonds of friendship. Upon reaching the city, they find that the Wizard is not quite what they expected, and he sets them the task of defeating the Wicked Witch of the West. Their adventure culminates in a final confrontation that reveals the true nature of their desires and the hidden strengths they possessed all along.
A delight for all ages and times, this is a very creative children’s fantasy filled with wondrous sights and creatures. I don’t believe I had ever read the unabridged version, and the language and structure are a joy to behold.