BOOK REVIEW: THE WONDERFUL WIZARD OF OZ by Frank L. Baum

THE WONDERFUL WIZARD OF OZ
L. Frank Baum
Audible Recording



Anne Hathaway is nothing short of masterful in her narration of Baum’s beloved classic. As she guides listeners through the world of munchkins, winkies, and quadlings; witches; and the humbug Oz, Hathaway’s impressive vocal repertoire shines. As narrator, she is lithe yet precise; her voice sounds lilting or emphatic, as the story details require. In character, she is spectacular. Each character is filled with personality - a light-voiced Witch of the North; a brusque soldier at Oz’s palace; a monotone, robot-like Oz; and a usually cheerful and genuine Dorothy. The variety enriches the listening experience. Yes, one may know the story well, but Hathaway makes this recording a definitive one. 
MY REVIEW:

I had never read The Wonderful Wizard of Oz before. I know. Hard to believe. But I got a free version of it from Audible with Anne Hathaway as narrator, and you know what? I loved it! Hathaway was a wonderful narrator. And the story was both engaging and highly imaginative.
Baum masterpiece is as vivid and touching as it was when it was originally published in 1900. If you are familiar with the movie, you will find many of the memorable lines of dialog and events in the book, such as "There's no place like home!"  Toto, the Cowardly Lion, Scarecrow, Tin Man, the Wicked Witch of the West, and Dorothy are all here. And it is easy to read; I think young children would love it too.