I’ve seen The Wizard of Oz on television a handful of times, but I’ve never read the original story until I received a copy of the book The Wizard of Oz by L. Frank Baum, illustrated by Charles Santore (ARV $16.95, Sterling Publishing).

The ultimate gift edition of L. Frank Baum’s beloved story—just in time to celebrate the 70th anniversary of MGM’s classic film adaptation! Featuring a ribbon marker, this magical version is redesigned and reproduced from the original art.

It’s been a while since I last saw The Wizard of Oz on TV, and since I have never read the book, it was intriguing to read Baum’s original story.

Many of the main elements between the story and the movie remained the same--a cyclone rips through Kansas, where Dorothy lived with her uncle and aunt, and she ends up in the land of the Munchkins, and follows the yellow brick road to find Oz, the Wizard, to help her get back home. On her journey she meets the Scarecrow, Tin Woodman, and Lion, and she encounters a lot of scary and evil creatures, including the Wicked Witch.

However, there were quite a few differences that really made the story engaging and amusing, such as how Oz made a new “brain” for the Scarecrow and stuffed it in his head, how he cut a hole in the Tin Woodman’s chest and stuffed a heart in it, and how he made the Lion drink something to get courage. Also, instead of ruby red slippers, Dorothy wore silver shoes!

I really enjoyed reading this timeless tale, and Santore’s interpretation and beautiful illustrations offer a fresh take on this beloved classic. I especially enjoyed his representation of the characters within the City of Emeralds.

Although Little Music Man is too young to read The Wizard of Oz, it’s one that I know he will enjoy when he’s old enough to read it, and I’m sure that it’ll be one of our most treasured classics.

Shop: You can purchase The Wizard of Oz on the Barnes & Noble website.