The Wonderful Wizard of Oz

Gr 4 Up—L. Frank Baum's classic meets the comic-book format, in these spectacular graphic novels that will appeal to all ages. Full-color, blocked panels of assorted sizes depict Dorothy being whisked from Kansas to the magical world of Oz where she meets the Scarecrow, Cowardly Lion, and Tin Man-who resembles Baum himself. The first three volumes of this eight-volume adaptation are short and move at a rapid pace. Each entry ends with a cliff-hanger, making readers anxious to know what happens next. The first installment starts in Kansas, and the third ends with the Lion sleeping in the field of flowers, leaving the audience wondering what he will do when he awakes. The narrative follows the original version of the story, using silver slippers instead of red, and here Dorothy is a stronger character, more helpful than helpless. The bold colors of the present-day action contrasts with the sepia-toned panels that illustrate the past as kids learn how the Scarecrow and Tin Man arrived at their current state. This classic tale will mostly be enjoyed by upper elementary students, but older fans of the format will appreciate seeing this well-known tale in a different version. A must-purchase for any graphic novel collection-especially one looking for adaptations of the classics.—Karen Alexander, Lake Fenton High School, Linden, MI