nicolednk's review against another edition

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4.0

This is a volume of Baum's first 3 books on Oz. The first book is the one the movie is based on...enjoyable, just remember the movie is BASED on it. lol The 2nd was my least favorite of the 3, the characters (new and old) were mostly unlikable and it was hard to finish. It redeemed itself in the end, though, with a finish that I did NOT see coming! (I probably should have, must be sleep deprived hehe) The last book was comparable to the first, and a quick read.

These were written for children, and are still fun reads. I think my daughter will love them! Love, love, LOVE the cover, but I miss the illustrations I remember. Otherwise a great edition to add to my bookshelf!

tomebro's review against another edition

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4.0

Fantastic and a wonderful read, I intend to finish the complete series.

captainhyperbole's review against another edition

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adventurous funny lighthearted relaxing fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? No
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? No

4.0

zenithharpink's review against another edition

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4.0

I never realized that The Wonderful Wizard of Oz was the first book in a 14 book series! These are the first 3 stories, and they're delightful! They read like an Aesop fable, the story line is very simplistic and far-fetched, but engaging and juvenile (in a good way).

On a note about the physical book-I LOVE the look and feel of these books-the illustrations are beautiful, and have a nice sheen/metallic accent on areas of the picture. The touch of the books is also great-not typical glossy, but more of a matte finish.

zenithharpink's review against another edition

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4.0

Another enjoyable read from Baum! These novels are simplistic and charming, and I can't help but enjoy these easy reads. I think my favorite book of the six to date is the third in this volume, The Emerald City of Oz. There was a more legitimate problem to speak of than in some of the other books, and Baum seemed to have a lot of fun with puns, particularly when Dorothy visits Utensia. I had a big smile on my face while reading that entire adventure, it was so tongue-in-cheek.

Super enjoyable, easy read. Strictly speaking, you don't need to have read any previous books/volumes to throw yourself into this volume, but it does give a more complete understanding of how the whole bunch of motley characters came together. This is old-school kids' fiction at its greatest.

zenithharpink's review against another edition

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3.0

Another enjoyable piece of the "Oz" story set. I'm realizing that as I continue to read these books, I equally enjoy all of them, but my recall is less than stellar.

The stories, are fun, simple children's stories, yet utterly forgettable. I will continue reading, but it's unlikely I'll re-read. Maybe just the first one.

zenithharpink's review against another edition

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4.0

Rinkitink in Oz was probably my favorite story since the original "Wizard of Oz" from Baum, and I can't really say way. It's not radically different than the other installments, I just seemed to enjoy it so much more! The Lost Princess of Oz was also a fun time, as all the stories are, really. The Tin Woodman of Oz was actually quite gruesome, and otherwise disturbing if you took time to really think about the characters' journey and conversation. Truly, I think this was a sign of the times in which the book was written.

I recommend this book to those who enjoy the other Oz books, or any who are looking for a fun, old-fashioned children's book. This is certainly appealing to both children and adults.

violetmoon's review against another edition

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4.0

*The Wonderful Wizard of Oz - 4/5
**The Marvelous Land of Oz - 4/5
*** Ozma of Oz - 4/5

funny_bunny_reads's review against another edition

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adventurous funny lighthearted fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

4.0

deanagrummons's review against another edition

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4.0

Book 1 (4 stars)
Book 2 (3 stars)
Book 3 (5 stars)