Book Talk & Review: The Marvelous Land of Oz

As a former English teacher and librarian, book talks were a staple in our founder’s classroom and library. She posted those book talks and reviews on her personal page, educatorbarnes.com. Those reviews are now on this website, and our founder will continue adding new book reviews. They are categorized on the Book Talks and Reviews page.

I currently reading the Land of Oz books, and I finished book two The Marvelous Land of Oz by L. Frank Baum. (Please note: I purchased my set from a UK company which is why marvelous is spelled with two ls.)

The book brought me little joy.

The main character in book two is a boy Tippetarius, nicknamed Tip. He is being raised by the evil witch Mombi. Using her powder of life, Tip brings to life a creation he made of wood and a pumpkin head (which he later names Jack Pumpkinhead) to scare his guardian Mombi for fun. Let’s just say that Mombi didn’t find anything funny about her magic powder being used.

Once Tip realizes he is in danger, he leaves with Jack and decides to go to the Emerald City which is now ruled by the Scarecrow.

Just like Dorothy, Tip has his own misadventures while trying to get to the Emerald City. Little does he know, a group is rising up to take the city he is trying to get to.

…so why did this book bring me little joy???

It was great that a few characters from book one appeared in book two. Readers will be glad to know that the Tin Man, Scarecrow, and Glinda are part of this story.

Remember, they have to get to the Emerald City. Sound familiar?

Even though Tip and Jack had different challenges, it felt like a recycled plot.

Also, Tip was an annoying character. I enjoyed the dialogue of every other character more.

Last, there was a part of the plot where the work of women was recognized.

One man said, “doing housework and minding the children is wearing out the strength of every man.” Another character replied and said, “If it is such hard work as you say, how did the women manage it so easily?”

You’ll have to read the book to find out why the men were doing “women’s work” in the first place.

If you are looking to learn more about the Land of OZ, read this book. Don’t expect much of the plot. I say this even though there is a plot twist at the end.

Despite my rating, I still believe young kids will enjoy the book.

Rating 2.5/5

Lexile (the level included is of book one as there isn’t one of book two)1030L

Accelerated Reader Level 8.0