The Wizard of Oz Picture Flats Portrait Book Review: Ages 6+

The Wizard of Oz Picture Flats Portrait book review: the story

Dorothy Gale is swept away from her Kansas home by a cyclone and lands in the magical Land of Oz.

With her loyal companions, the Scarecrow, the Tin Woodman and the Cowardly Lion, she sets off to find the Wizard of Oz and a way back home.

Along the way they meet wicked witches, flying monkeys and other strange characters. It becomes a journey of self-discovery, friendship and courage.

Why it is still loved

The Wizard of Oz has held readers for generations with its story, characters and magical adventures.

Baum's storytelling and Lorena Alvarez's bright illustrations make the classic accessible for young readers. Its themes of friendship, bravery and believing in yourself speak to readers of all ages.

Friendship, bravery, and the power of believing in oneself.

Lorena Alvarez's illustrations

The pictures are colourful and full of detail, from the golden fields of Kansas to the Emerald City.

Dorothy, her friends, the wicked witches and the creatures of Oz all have expressive faces and lively poses. Alvarez's distinctive style adds depth and personality, so every page turn is a pleasure.

What age is it for?

It is a children's picture book for readers aged 6 and up who enjoy adventure, fantasy and stories about friendship.

The accessible text and bright artwork make it good for both independent reading and reading together.

The Wizard of Oz Picture Flats Portrait book for kids: imagination and courage

Following Dorothy and her friends through Oz, children enter a world where anything seems possible.

The book encourages imaginative thinking and inspires readers to believe in themselves, value friendship and find the courage to face obstacles.

Talk-about-it tip Each friend is looking for something they already have. After reading, ask your child what the Lion, the Scarecrow and the Tin Woodman each wanted, and whether they really needed the Wizard to get it.

About the author, L. Frank Baum

L. Frank Baum was a prolific author and playwright known for imaginative stories and memorable characters. The Wizard of Oz has inspired countless adaptations and still holds readers of all ages.

Similar books

• "Alice's Adventures in Wonderland" by Lewis Carroll
• "Peter Pan" by J.M. Barrie
• "The Chronicles of Narnia" by C.S. Lewis

Gift it right: The Wizard of Oz as a birthday gift

An illustrated classic is one of the more lasting books as birthday gifts for kids aged 6 and up: read together now, read alone later. Add a name label inside the cover and a name sticker on the wrapping.

See all personalised book labels, or browse our gifts for kids to pair the book with something more.

Read next

• The Wizard of Oz picture book review
• Alice in Wonderland picture book review
• The Jungle Book Picture Flats Portrait book review
• Treasure Island Picture Flats Portrait book review