Genre: historical fiction
Rating: 5 stars (out of 5)
Review: When The Wizard of Oz was being made into a movie, L. Frank Baum's widow Maud took it upon herself to make sure that the movie honored her late husband's vision in the book - that the "heart" of Oz was present in the movie. I think most of us who have grown up watching the movie would agree that her efforts were successful. In writing about Maud Baum, Elizabeth Letts allows us to find the magic of Oz anew.
In writing about Frank and Maud's life together, Letts let's us see the magic that they, particularly Frank saw in their every day life, and shows us the many inspirations that came together to become Oz. In her Author's Note, Letts explains that many of the origins of Oz are well-documented, and her skill as a writer brings those scenes alive and allows her readers to experience the magic that Frank felt.
This backstory is told as Maud finagles her way onto the set of The Wizard of Oz at MGM studios. She's particularly concerned with the character of Dorothy, and her time with Judy Garland reassures her that the singer can bring the right blend of innocence and longing to the part. She must also confront the rampant sexism on the movie set, as Judy and other actresses are subject to sexual harassment. Here Letts allows Maud to recall her early life as the daughter of a prominent sufragette and her lifelong committment to women's equality, of which Frank was an ardent supporter. Feminism, suffrage, and Maud's inherent practicality married to Frank's sense of wonder all went into making Oz the magical place that it is in books, on stage and screen, and in our hearts. In bringing that alive, Letts has given fans of Oz a great gift.
FTC Disclaimer: This book was given to me by the publisher in exchange for this review.
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