The Wonderful Wizard of Oz adapted by Eric Shanower

Writer Eric Shanower and artist Skottie Young present a gorgeous retelling of the original novel, The Wonderful Wizard of Oz, originally written by L. Frank Baum in 1900. The Wizard of Oz has become a classic of American and international culture as a result of the beautifully done movie starring Judy Garland as Dorothy, but the series of books written by Baum are often left untouched by young readers. This adaptation bring to life the adventures of Dorothy, the Scarecrow, the Tin Woodman, the Cowardly Lion, and Toto as they attempt to find those things they desire most. Most readers will know how everything turns out -- Scarecrow gets his brains, the Tin Woodman gets his heart, Lion finds courage, and Dorothy gets back home to Aunt Em and Uncle Henry in Kansas -- but there are many twists and turns and wonderful details that will be brand new and exciting for new and experienced readers. The famous shoes, the flying monkeys, and the evil trees all play significant roles in the lives of our key characters, but version of the events might be different than what we're all used to seeing . . .

This graphic adaptation of a classic is highly recommended for those who love the story of The Wizard of Oz, those who appreciate artistic talent and storytelling at its highest, and those with a fascination for the unexpected.

Call number: YA GRAPHIC SHANOWER (Teen Room)

Reviewed by kate the librarian

(And for a real-life fantastical Kansas adventure, check out the previous review of The Storm in the Barn . . .)