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Bewitched in Oz #1
Bewitched in Oz
Even though sorcery is forbidden in Oz, Zerie Greenapple is determined to use her magic. When the Flying Monkeys find Zerie and her friends using magic, one of their gang is captured. Three friends go on the run through the wild landscapes of Oz to try and find Glinda the Good, who they hope will save them from the evil Princess Ozma. But will magic be enough to lead these three friends to safety? This exciting tale of adventure and fantasy surrounds readers in a world of complexity, where the truth is always shifting and the integrity of friendship is constantly questioned.
256 pages, Hardcover
First published July 1, 2014
31 people are currently reading
823 people want to read
About the author
Laura J. Burns
38 books262 followersLaura J. Burns has written more than thirty books for kids and teens, touching on topics from imaginary lake monsters to out-of-control Hollywood starlets. (Those two things have more in common than you'd think.)
With Melinda Metz, she has also written for the TV shows ROSWELL, 1-800-MISSING, and THE DEAD ZONE. Their next book is THE LOST MAP OF CHAOS, coming in 2018!
Laura lives in New York with her husband, her kids, and her exceptionally silly dogs.
With Melinda Metz, she has also written for the TV shows ROSWELL, 1-800-MISSING, and THE DEAD ZONE. Their next book is THE LOST MAP OF CHAOS, coming in 2018!
Laura lives in New York with her husband, her kids, and her exceptionally silly dogs.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 68 reviews
April 16, 2014
When I was a little girl I so loved the Wizard of Oz. It came on one per year and my sisters and I never missed it. I remember when we got our first color tv set (yes I'm showing my age). That movie became magic.
I was thrilled to recieve this ARC since it took place in the land of Oz.
The thing is..I was really bored with the story. I think maybe very young kids might somewhat like it. I think the girls that are wrote about are supposed to be teenagers, it's written very childish though.
I think I'm just going to go watch the movie again and live the magic.
I was thrilled to recieve this ARC since it took place in the land of Oz.
The thing is..I was really bored with the story. I think maybe very young kids might somewhat like it. I think the girls that are wrote about are supposed to be teenagers, it's written very childish though.
I think I'm just going to go watch the movie again and live the magic.
April 13, 2014
1.5 stars
Arc provided by Capstone Press through Netgalley
My biggest question reading this: To whom is this story destined?
I'm afraid children's fiction is a somewhat vague reference, and with this cover, I was expecting something at least more middle grade oriented, if not YA.
That was my first mistake.
In reality this story is directed to a public of 9 to 13... but I'm afraid that aiming it at an audience of 12, 13 years old may be pushing it.
In fact, I believe that this tale will be better appreciated by an audience as young as possible.
The story has solid foundations for an adventure... on tv (I can see it!). But I'm afraid that, as a book, it reads somewhat as a draft.
If this were a human being, I would say this is the skeleton.
Now all that were missing would be... the rest: arteries, organs, skin.
Since this is an ARC, a very early ARC, maybe it will be more developed?
I'll admit however that I have been extremely spoiled by so called "middle grade books" that read as a prime example of literary fiction.
In "Bewitched in Oz" the language is very basic, which could be explained due to the age targeted (9??)... but then the characters are supposed to be sixteen, and there are also references to love interests...
I think there should be some sort of rule: If there's googly eyes involved, the readers deserve a properly developed story.
There were interesting props used for setting the proper tone for a magical adventure that takes place in the Lands of Oz: a doughnuts and bubble gum tree (lol)... but, just like the characters, it all seemed very cardboard.
For those obsessed with all things Oz, you'll be happy to know that the Glass Cat, a Rigmarole, one Flutterbudget, some Kalidahs and quite a number of Winged Monkeys are part of this story.
To finish, kids aren't stupid (well, there's cases and cases), so yes, the author could use this phrase as _I guess _ some sort of mantra?
Friends are always strongest together.
(this is from an arc, so it can be altered...)
But, since this is such a short tale, I'm afraid that repeating it seven times was a little too much.
It has a good message of friendship and of fighting for what's important, but I can't help feeling that it got a little lost between what is children's fiction and the YA department.
For me it needed a little something more... more spark, more depth...
Simon & Schuster's author's Page
Pre-order "Bewitched in Oz"
Bookdepository.com
Arc provided by Capstone Press through Netgalley
My biggest question reading this: To whom is this story destined?
I'm afraid children's fiction is a somewhat vague reference, and with this cover, I was expecting something at least more middle grade oriented, if not YA.
That was my first mistake.
In reality this story is directed to a public of 9 to 13... but I'm afraid that aiming it at an audience of 12, 13 years old may be pushing it.
In fact, I believe that this tale will be better appreciated by an audience as young as possible.
The story has solid foundations for an adventure... on tv (I can see it!). But I'm afraid that, as a book, it reads somewhat as a draft.
If this were a human being, I would say this is the skeleton.
Now all that were missing would be... the rest: arteries, organs, skin.
Since this is an ARC, a very early ARC, maybe it will be more developed?
I'll admit however that I have been extremely spoiled by so called "middle grade books" that read as a prime example of literary fiction.
In "Bewitched in Oz" the language is very basic, which could be explained due to the age targeted (9??)... but then the characters are supposed to be sixteen, and there are also references to love interests...
I think there should be some sort of rule: If there's googly eyes involved, the readers deserve a properly developed story.
There were interesting props used for setting the proper tone for a magical adventure that takes place in the Lands of Oz: a doughnuts and bubble gum tree (lol)... but, just like the characters, it all seemed very cardboard.
For those obsessed with all things Oz, you'll be happy to know that the Glass Cat, a Rigmarole, one Flutterbudget, some Kalidahs and quite a number of Winged Monkeys are part of this story.
To finish, kids aren't stupid (well, there's cases and cases), so yes, the author could use this phrase as _I guess _ some sort of mantra?
Friends are always strongest together.
(this is from an arc, so it can be altered...)
But, since this is such a short tale, I'm afraid that repeating it seven times was a little too much.
It has a good message of friendship and of fighting for what's important, but I can't help feeling that it got a little lost between what is children's fiction and the YA department.
For me it needed a little something more... more spark, more depth...
Simon & Schuster's author's Page
Pre-order "Bewitched in Oz"
Bookdepository.com
April 17, 2014
When I found this book on NetGalley, I became super excited - I mean, it's a book set in Oz - how could I not want to read this? Then I saw some of the reviews on a few book social networks and it made me sad - a couple of people disliked it so much that they gave it a 1 star. Well, I completely disagree.
This book was so much fun and, yeah, it was written for younger people, but that was part of what was so much fun about it. I really enjoyed the adventure they undertook and the people they met along the way. And, as usual with Oz books, there are some lessons learned, some things that happen that make the characters rethink actions they had taken. To be honest, the adventures and plot twists made this story even more exciting than I had expected (after reading those reviews). And you'll never believe who the "bad guy" turns out to be. But it leaves you wanting so much more, sets it up nicely for a second book with its nod at adventures yet to come. I can't wait!!
Note: I received a copy of this from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
This book was so much fun and, yeah, it was written for younger people, but that was part of what was so much fun about it. I really enjoyed the adventure they undertook and the people they met along the way. And, as usual with Oz books, there are some lessons learned, some things that happen that make the characters rethink actions they had taken. To be honest, the adventures and plot twists made this story even more exciting than I had expected (after reading those reviews). And you'll never believe who the "bad guy" turns out to be. But it leaves you wanting so much more, sets it up nicely for a second book with its nod at adventures yet to come. I can't wait!!
Note: I received a copy of this from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
July 3, 2014
I received an ARC from Net Galley in exchange for an honest review.
As someone who has watched The Wizard of Oz countless of times and seen Wicked on Broadway twice, I honestly have to give 4 stars on this one. I have got to say I wasn't sure what to expect with this book. But wow, it really blew my expectations out of the water. Let me be honest with you all, I do NOT bother to read a book if the synopsis doesn't capture my attention. Now, I was pleasantly surprised that the book dove right into the magic and immersed the reader into the land of Oz. I honestly was expecting a slower start, but that wasn't the case at all. And the writing! Oh the descriptive settings! I felt like I was right there; nothing I love more than getting lost in a book, and seeing the world through the protagonist's eyes. I like to live on the wild side...at least in the book world. =)
The Story
Zerie can do magic. However it has been outlawed in Oz for years. When she and a few friends get caught practicing, they journey to Glinda the Good Witch's palace for help; encountering many things along the way.
The Characters
I liked that the main characters were introduced almost right away. This way the reader can get to know each character, their foil etc. I liked all of them well enough. Thankfully there wasn't any particular one that irritated me, as I find that happens rather often.
I rather enjoyed that ending too!
I recommend this book for anyone who enjoys the mystical, magical world of Oz. You should definitely check this book out.
As someone who has watched The Wizard of Oz countless of times and seen Wicked on Broadway twice, I honestly have to give 4 stars on this one. I have got to say I wasn't sure what to expect with this book. But wow, it really blew my expectations out of the water. Let me be honest with you all, I do NOT bother to read a book if the synopsis doesn't capture my attention. Now, I was pleasantly surprised that the book dove right into the magic and immersed the reader into the land of Oz. I honestly was expecting a slower start, but that wasn't the case at all. And the writing! Oh the descriptive settings! I felt like I was right there; nothing I love more than getting lost in a book, and seeing the world through the protagonist's eyes. I like to live on the wild side...at least in the book world. =)
The Story
Zerie can do magic. However it has been outlawed in Oz for years. When she and a few friends get caught practicing, they journey to Glinda the Good Witch's palace for help; encountering many things along the way.
The Characters
I liked that the main characters were introduced almost right away. This way the reader can get to know each character, their foil etc. I liked all of them well enough. Thankfully there wasn't any particular one that irritated me, as I find that happens rather often.
I rather enjoyed that ending too!
I recommend this book for anyone who enjoys the mystical, magical world of Oz. You should definitely check this book out.
May 5, 2014
I was very disappointed with this book. Maybe it was because I was expecting something more Young Adult level in terms of characters, language in plot, or because it was extremely babyish even if considered as middle grade. Also, the whole "Ozma outlaws magic and is basically destroying the minds of people who use it" plot never rang true to me. It is EXTREMELY out of character for Ozma and if you've ever read any of Baum's books, you'd know that. I just felt bored. Everything was so one-dimensional and basic, that once I had stopped reading I couldn't bring myself to pick it up again. Once a week had passed, I just marked it as Did-Not-Finish. If it weren't for the character's ages, I'd recommend it for ages 8-11, but they're described as teens and there is some romantic triangle-ishness going on. Overall, wouldn't recommend it. It only gets as high of a rating as it does, because I managed to slog through half of it.
VERDICT: 1/5 Stars
*I received this book from Capstone Young Readers, on NetGalley. No favors or money were exchanged for this review. This book's expected publication is August 1st, 2014.*
VERDICT: 1/5 Stars
*I received this book from Capstone Young Readers, on NetGalley. No favors or money were exchanged for this review. This book's expected publication is August 1st, 2014.*
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November 13, 2024this is perfect for elementary school kids who already love oz. unfortunately i am now a grumpy adult so i only mildly liked it.
3 kids with magical powers go on the run to avoid ozma's law banning magic. on their journey they are aided by the glass cat, chased by kalidahs, and encounter a rigmarole and a flutterbudget. with these classic creatures, they travel through what i think is new scenery - the trenches and the tilted forest are creative and charming and fit right into oz.
3 kids with magical powers go on the run to avoid ozma's law banning magic. on their journey they are aided by the glass cat, chased by kalidahs, and encounter a rigmarole and a flutterbudget. with these classic creatures, they travel through what i think is new scenery - the trenches and the tilted forest are creative and charming and fit right into oz.
January 19, 2018
This book is pretty faithful to the original Oz series. There are several references to places like Bunbury and Big Enough Mountain, the Glass Cat plays a significant role, and some of the author's original ideas fit in well with Oz as L. Frank Baum developed it. There are some aspects that don't really fit with the main series, however. It's revealed in the first book that Ozma's magic ban was actually just so she could find people with magical talents to help her out, and Bungle claims to have left the Emerald City after finding out about the ban (as per Baum, by the time she met Ozma in Patchwork Girl, the ban had already been instituted). Ozma also has intelligence showing that Glinda has turned against her and allied herself with the Nomes, but we'll have to wait for future volumes to see whether that plays out in a way that's possible to reconcile with the characters and events of the main series. There's an element of teen drama, in that in addition to having magical powers they try to keep secret, the female characters are concerned over liking the same boys, and whether these boys like them back. It's not something we see that much in Oz stories, and I've seen at least one online review saying it ruined the story for them. I can see that, but on the other hand, I guess there's no reason why Ozian teenagers can't act like teenagers. The first book is about the characters using their talents to travel through the Quadling Country to reach Glinda's palace, in hopes that she can help them.
March 1, 2015
Zerie Greenapple has a magical talent—she can move really fast, and make other things move really fast—but magic is outlawed in Oz; Princess Ozma arrests anyone showing magic and forces them into the Forbidden Fountain, whose waters will make them forget everything. Zerie and her friends Tabitha and Vashti, however, resent not being able to use their talents and practice in secret, later joined by Brink. When Ozma finds out about them, though, they are forced to flee through the dangers of Quadling Country—through swamp and desert and forest and deadly mountains and vicious beasts—trying to avoid getting captured by Ozma’s ferocious winged monkeys. The only person who can help them is Glinda, so they do their best to reach her palace, learning along the way how to make their magic, and their friendships stronger. Will it be enough?
I had to force myself to finish this one, it was so blah in the beginning—felt like a Disney sitcom set in Oz but with kids wisecracking in current teen vernacular, spouting simplistic moralities and carefully enuciating thoughts as shallow as the page they were written on. It got better during the adventure part, but I don’t know how much was L.Frank Baum’s invention, and how much was original. I have nothing against fanfiction, but the best fanfiction uses the borrowed world to bring an original story to life, and doesn’t rely on the original author’s creation to provide everything of value to the story. And boy, did I get sick of the “friends work better together” tagline—like something out of Dora the Explorer or some other show designed to inculcate kids with appropriate values. I’ve read many excellent books that put sensible characters into ridiculous fantasy worlds (Patricia Wrede’s Dealing with Dragons series is a favorite), but those characters have depth and humor and stories worth telling—not so sure about this one. I do think kids will like it, though—I will put it in my collection. But in a best-of list? No.
I had to force myself to finish this one, it was so blah in the beginning—felt like a Disney sitcom set in Oz but with kids wisecracking in current teen vernacular, spouting simplistic moralities and carefully enuciating thoughts as shallow as the page they were written on. It got better during the adventure part, but I don’t know how much was L.Frank Baum’s invention, and how much was original. I have nothing against fanfiction, but the best fanfiction uses the borrowed world to bring an original story to life, and doesn’t rely on the original author’s creation to provide everything of value to the story. And boy, did I get sick of the “friends work better together” tagline—like something out of Dora the Explorer or some other show designed to inculcate kids with appropriate values. I’ve read many excellent books that put sensible characters into ridiculous fantasy worlds (Patricia Wrede’s Dealing with Dragons series is a favorite), but those characters have depth and humor and stories worth telling—not so sure about this one. I do think kids will like it, though—I will put it in my collection. But in a best-of list? No.
April 30, 2014
I received an ARC, courtesy of NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review.
The cover for this novel is absolutely gorgeous, and it is what made me want to read this book. I didn't know anything about the book when I started reading, but assumed based on the cover that it would be a YA or middle grade novel. It’s not. The target age range is questionable, because while the plot and narration “voice” are pretty basic, the main characters are established as being 16. There is a lot of repetition throughout the book, and the phrase “friends are stronger together” comes up far too many times. This novel was an interesting idea, but felt poorly executed – almost like a giant (clean) fan fiction of Oz. Not something I would read again, but may appeal to younger readers.
The cover for this novel is absolutely gorgeous, and it is what made me want to read this book. I didn't know anything about the book when I started reading, but assumed based on the cover that it would be a YA or middle grade novel. It’s not. The target age range is questionable, because while the plot and narration “voice” are pretty basic, the main characters are established as being 16. There is a lot of repetition throughout the book, and the phrase “friends are stronger together” comes up far too many times. This novel was an interesting idea, but felt poorly executed – almost like a giant (clean) fan fiction of Oz. Not something I would read again, but may appeal to younger readers.
January 24, 2015
Ummm...meh
Found this one in the YA section of the library but it read like a kids book. The characters were pretty bland, the dialogue was stiff, and the plot was kinda boring. I mean it wasn't bad, but if you're above a third grade reading level you could probably find something better to read.
Found this one in the YA section of the library but it read like a kids book. The characters were pretty bland, the dialogue was stiff, and the plot was kinda boring. I mean it wasn't bad, but if you're above a third grade reading level you could probably find something better to read.
May 9, 2014
Cute story, but more for the middle grade reader than the YA crowd.
April 28, 2019
I am a HUGE fan of the original Oz books and some of the re-tellings that I have read as well. So I absolutely couldn't wait to read this book when I found it on a shelf at our library. This author is not Frank Baum so I didn't expect her to keep to the original story perfectly. I am rating her based on her writing (and my opinion of the book)... not on how well she kept to the original story. They are two different authors and I will be fair and treat her as an individual.
There are some parallels in this book with the original story with common characters and places but Ms. Burns took ownership and made this story her own. I really enjoyed the new characters that she introduced. They are young and they act accordingly with crushes and jealously, etc. Unlike other reviewers, I didn't expect young characters to act like adults. These characters have their own skills that they are learning and developing along the way to Glinda the Good's castle. They are also learn that sometimes things are not as they appear and the same goes for people. I literally got lost in this book and read it all in one sitting. I believe that Ms. Burns has earned herself a new fan.
Overall, a great adventure in the land of Oz. Now I just need to get my hands on a copy of the next book...
There are some parallels in this book with the original story with common characters and places but Ms. Burns took ownership and made this story her own. I really enjoyed the new characters that she introduced. They are young and they act accordingly with crushes and jealously, etc. Unlike other reviewers, I didn't expect young characters to act like adults. These characters have their own skills that they are learning and developing along the way to Glinda the Good's castle. They are also learn that sometimes things are not as they appear and the same goes for people. I literally got lost in this book and read it all in one sitting. I believe that Ms. Burns has earned herself a new fan.
Overall, a great adventure in the land of Oz. Now I just need to get my hands on a copy of the next book...
June 12, 2021
I’ve read all the L. Frank Baum Oz books and I mean all of them. So I knew the description of the Forbidden Fountain didn’t seem right. However, Mr. Baum’s books all lacked internal consistency as he continued the series. Why would Ms. Burns cling to them except as a template and launching pad for her imaginative take on the mythical land of Oz?
People who’ve read the Oz chronicles will have noted how most of Oz’s rulers are female. In Ms. Burns book, strong bonds are forged among three females because, apparently, only girls have magic. However, Ms. Burns soon throws a wrench into this premise by giving power to Brink.
Ms. Burns is excellent at upending the reader’s expectations this way, springing one surprise after another. Thus, she adheres to the world Mr. Baum created, one in which astonishing and weird wonders lay around every corner and danger could rise from the ground or drop from the skies.
The conclusion takes you by surprise yet again and promises more action in the sequel. I am heartily looking forward to it.
People who’ve read the Oz chronicles will have noted how most of Oz’s rulers are female. In Ms. Burns book, strong bonds are forged among three females because, apparently, only girls have magic. However, Ms. Burns soon throws a wrench into this premise by giving power to Brink.
Ms. Burns is excellent at upending the reader’s expectations this way, springing one surprise after another. Thus, she adheres to the world Mr. Baum created, one in which astonishing and weird wonders lay around every corner and danger could rise from the ground or drop from the skies.
The conclusion takes you by surprise yet again and promises more action in the sequel. I am heartily looking forward to it.
April 16, 2025
It was cute. Definitely geared for very young readers but I’m a sucker for all things Oz related.
I appreciate the many nods to some of the original elements that make Oz so special. But yes friends are stronger together was used far too many times for my taste. But I’m mostly upset that it ends on a cliffhanger. Now I have to read the sequel to find out what happens.
Glinda is bad. Ozma is good. So much to unpack there but yes magical powers aren’t bad. I don’t know. I do want to know what happens to Brink especially since Glinda has him captured. We will see if I care enough to find out what happens to him.
Best part? The winged monkeys 🐒 😂
I appreciate the many nods to some of the original elements that make Oz so special. But yes friends are stronger together was used far too many times for my taste. But I’m mostly upset that it ends on a cliffhanger. Now I have to read the sequel to find out what happens.
Glinda is bad. Ozma is good. So much to unpack there but yes magical powers aren’t bad. I don’t know. I do want to know what happens to Brink especially since Glinda has him captured. We will see if I care enough to find out what happens to him.
Best part? The winged monkeys 🐒 😂
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 16, 2017
This book was so cute! And a very quick read. I started it last night and just finished it. I enjoyed seeing a different side of Oz. I really like retellings of Wizard of Oz for some reason. I don't really know why.
Anyway I loved seeing all the kids' talents expand. It was a neat little book that anyone who loves fairy tales will like. I just hate that the end hinted at another book but I haven't seen one yet.
Anyway I loved seeing all the kids' talents expand. It was a neat little book that anyone who loves fairy tales will like. I just hate that the end hinted at another book but I haven't seen one yet.
November 17, 2017
This book is about a girl named Zerie Greenapple who lives in the land of Oz where sorcery is forbidden. Her Mother and Grandmother had kept her powers hidden from the world for years until one day all of that changed. Zerie and her friends were in the woods one day practicing their magic when flying monkeys caught one of her friends using magic and captured her.
September 17, 2017
The book itself was amazing, but the story ended in the middle of an action scene. I absolutely hate it when books do that, because, while you wait to get the next book, you lose some of the suspense and you occasionally forget some of the details of that scene.
August 3, 2018
I'm 13 and this book is probably my favorite book I've ever read!! I've re-read it 3 times and I have a feeling that's gonna go up to 4. The book is filled with magic, friendship, love, and suspense, I'm so glad I read it and re-read it!
February 4, 2018
Rated 4 1/2 stars
Ages 13+
Ages 13+
November 23, 2018
Good book, full of mystery and adventure, but I couldn't really understand the concept.
April 9, 2019
3 stars! I wish I had read this back when I was younger and even more in love with fairy tale retellings mixed with Middle Grades, it would've felt more magical then but I did still enjoy it now!
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February 28, 2021Necesito un poco de tiempo para saber la puntuación que le daré, pero lo que sí sé, es que me gustó más de lo que esperaba y que deseo leer la segunda parte lo más pronto posible. <3
December 7, 2024
The exploring of thier powers and the twist at the end. Awesome
December 3, 2018
When I reread the Oz books as an adult, I was struck by how Ozma really seemed to be the villain of the story: her wildly unfair and baseless ban on magic was the driving force in making the protagonists’ lives miserable. This book seemed to finally be the answer to my mantra, that we need an Oz story with Ozma as the explicit villain, instead of someone awful masquerading as a benevolent fairy.
This book almost got there: there’s a twist at the end that I’m skeptical of, but I’m invested enough to keep reading. I reserve the right to lower this rating if the payoff in the sequel doesn’t justify this first book.
A common theme I’ve seen in other reviews is that this book seems to straddle the line between middle grade and YA; I think it’s pretty clearly middle grade, and if one goes into it expecting that, it’ll be a much pleasanter experience.
One of the very irritating aspects was that the protagonist, Zerie, while on the run for her life, is utterly consumed by the thought of who likes whom. I can’t decide if it’s good because it’s realistic that a young teenage girl would be consumed by that, or if it’s unrealistic that she is that silly… either way, I just rolled my eyes and moved right along, it didn’t really ruin the story.
The author has clearly done her homework on Oz, there are a lot of elements from Baum’s Oz books (including some obscure ones) that make very welcome appearances in this book. True Oz fans, especially ones who (like me) aren’t big Ozma fans, will really enjoy this book.
ETA: Downgraded to 3 stars because the sequel went absolutely nowhere, and I think that's still being generous.
This book almost got there: there’s a twist at the end that I’m skeptical of, but I’m invested enough to keep reading. I reserve the right to lower this rating if the payoff in the sequel doesn’t justify this first book.
A common theme I’ve seen in other reviews is that this book seems to straddle the line between middle grade and YA; I think it’s pretty clearly middle grade, and if one goes into it expecting that, it’ll be a much pleasanter experience.
One of the very irritating aspects was that the protagonist, Zerie, while on the run for her life, is utterly consumed by the thought of who likes whom. I can’t decide if it’s good because it’s realistic that a young teenage girl would be consumed by that, or if it’s unrealistic that she is that silly… either way, I just rolled my eyes and moved right along, it didn’t really ruin the story.
The author has clearly done her homework on Oz, there are a lot of elements from Baum’s Oz books (including some obscure ones) that make very welcome appearances in this book. True Oz fans, especially ones who (like me) aren’t big Ozma fans, will really enjoy this book.
ETA: Downgraded to 3 stars because the sequel went absolutely nowhere, and I think that's still being generous.
April 20, 2019
I thought that the book was a good retailing but could have done better on the plot, if you asked me I would not have written the whole book so that in the end the characters would discover that they were going (to Glinda) to where trouble was.
I hope that in the sequel they will help their friend since the book finished right after they got to Princess Ozma.
It was worth reading thought, I am very exited to read the sequel.
I hope that in the sequel they will help their friend since the book finished right after they got to Princess Ozma.
It was worth reading thought, I am very exited to read the sequel.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 10, 2018
Bewitched in Oz by Laura J. Burns is a wonderful book for all
ages.
Bewitched in Oz by Laura J. Burns is a great science fiction book which is about 255
pages about a group of friends Zerie (the main character) and two other friends have
extraordinary powers such as flying, speed, and allusions. But the city of Oz has banned
the use of magic. So when they are caught by the evil witch when they were practicing
their magic they all ran away. And the book from there on out is about Zerie and her
friends trying to get to the good witch Glinda. But they run through many problems such
as getting caught by the bad witch’s flying monkeys. And an internal problem when Zerie
is wondering whether to continue their journey or turn herself and her friends in. So it
has multiple Man V.S. Man and Man V.S. Self examples.
Now I particularly liked this book because of plot twists. They weren’t so obvious
like most books and really contributed to the story. I also enjoyed this book because it
referred to the Wizard of Oz many times. Such as the yellow brick road, Glinda the Good
Witch, Ozma the Bad Witch, and the scene from the movie where all the friends skip
down the road hand in hand. So people who love the Wizard of Oz would love this book.
And anyone who loves superhero stories and great explorations because this story is a
wonderful adventure of friends with powers
ages.
Bewitched in Oz by Laura J. Burns is a great science fiction book which is about 255
pages about a group of friends Zerie (the main character) and two other friends have
extraordinary powers such as flying, speed, and allusions. But the city of Oz has banned
the use of magic. So when they are caught by the evil witch when they were practicing
their magic they all ran away. And the book from there on out is about Zerie and her
friends trying to get to the good witch Glinda. But they run through many problems such
as getting caught by the bad witch’s flying monkeys. And an internal problem when Zerie
is wondering whether to continue their journey or turn herself and her friends in. So it
has multiple Man V.S. Man and Man V.S. Self examples.
Now I particularly liked this book because of plot twists. They weren’t so obvious
like most books and really contributed to the story. I also enjoyed this book because it
referred to the Wizard of Oz many times. Such as the yellow brick road, Glinda the Good
Witch, Ozma the Bad Witch, and the scene from the movie where all the friends skip
down the road hand in hand. So people who love the Wizard of Oz would love this book.
And anyone who loves superhero stories and great explorations because this story is a
wonderful adventure of friends with powers
November 28, 2015
First off, I'd like to say that I suspected Ned ever since he asked about Tabitha. Because Zerie interpreted that as him liking Tabitha, I knew it had to be something else, which could only mean he suspected them of witchcraft. Then, my suspicions were reinforced when the Glass Cat mentioned clockwork creatures were spies.
I like Brink. He's funny, charming, encouraging, but I don't like how the storyline got so jumbled with love triangles and squares:
Oh she likes this person. But wait, I like that person, too! How dare she do this to me, the little back stabber. Oh, she got over him and now she likes this guy? Oh, well now that I'm looking, he's very handsome, too. Oh no! I like the same person? But hold on, he seems to like me back. Maybe things will work out between us. What? Now he's laughing with HER? How dare he! Oh but wait, she still likes this person. Well I like that person, but he likes her. Wait- he likes me back? Then we can all be happy!
Honestly, crushes are just too complex and whimsical that they distract from the main problems in the story. I get that they're preteens and that's just common, but it's really too much drama for me.
Finally, I'm not sure if it's okay to trust Ozma. What proof does she have to proof that she really means to help them. What does the Glass Cat think? Can she be trusted since she's on Glinda's side? Can Glinda be trusted? Can Brink be trusted? Really, who can be trusted? Okay, stop for a moment. Ozma's only proof that she was on their sides was that she sent them through the fountain to keep them safe from Glinda. Had she anticipated what would've happened if they hadn't read the plaque? On the other side of this, why would Glinda need to have enchantments to dull others' magic in her castle? Flipping over again, maybe Ozma captured Brink to use him as a hostage if Vishti and Zerie turn against her. She'd have them go into Glinda's castle and defeat her, sufficently doing her dirty work for her. The odds are certainly stacked against Princess Ozma, but who knows? Maybe that's all the more reason to trust her.
I wonder where the Glass Cat is right now...
I like Brink. He's funny, charming, encouraging, but I don't like how the storyline got so jumbled with love triangles and squares:
Oh she likes this person. But wait, I like that person, too! How dare she do this to me, the little back stabber. Oh, she got over him and now she likes this guy? Oh, well now that I'm looking, he's very handsome, too. Oh no! I like the same person? But hold on, he seems to like me back. Maybe things will work out between us. What? Now he's laughing with HER? How dare he! Oh but wait, she still likes this person. Well I like that person, but he likes her. Wait- he likes me back? Then we can all be happy!
Honestly, crushes are just too complex and whimsical that they distract from the main problems in the story. I get that they're preteens and that's just common, but it's really too much drama for me.
Finally, I'm not sure if it's okay to trust Ozma. What proof does she have to proof that she really means to help them. What does the Glass Cat think? Can she be trusted since she's on Glinda's side? Can Glinda be trusted? Can Brink be trusted? Really, who can be trusted? Okay, stop for a moment. Ozma's only proof that she was on their sides was that she sent them through the fountain to keep them safe from Glinda. Had she anticipated what would've happened if they hadn't read the plaque? On the other side of this, why would Glinda need to have enchantments to dull others' magic in her castle? Flipping over again, maybe Ozma captured Brink to use him as a hostage if Vishti and Zerie turn against her. She'd have them go into Glinda's castle and defeat her, sufficently doing her dirty work for her. The odds are certainly stacked against Princess Ozma, but who knows? Maybe that's all the more reason to trust her.
I wonder where the Glass Cat is right now...
July 9, 2014
"friends are always strongest together"
Bewitched in Oz may be set in the fantastical land L Frank Baum created and MGM brought to life in the 1939 film, but in Laura J Burns' book there are no wicked witches, brainless scarecrows, cowardly lions or tin men missing a heart. Bewitched in Oz manages to be a celebration of the original tale whilst containing enough creative ingredients to stand alone as a novel.
There are some Oz characters Laura J Burns has chosen to retain in her story, like Ozma, Glinda and the Wizard, but others like 'Dorothy the explorer' are merely talked about. I loved the small references to lines in the book/film:
" 'That's what we're looking for, Tigers and bears.'
'Tigers and bears,' Vashiti repeated, her voice shrill with fear.
'Tigers and bears," Brink agreed.
Arm in arm, they began to walk. Zerie felt better holding on to her friends, as if she were not one girl, but part of a bigger thing."
And,
" 'I think this is how Dorothy the explorer must've felt in the poppy fields.' "
In my opinion Bewitched in Oz is not aimed at a young adult reader, but a middle grade one. Although Zerie and Vashiti are 16 they are very innocent and immature, to a degree which can be irritating.
The story is about magic but perhaps more importantly, trust and friendship,
" 'we don't know for sure that Glinda will even be willing to help us. What if we've come all this way for nothing?'
'It wasn't for nothing,' Brink said, squeezing my arm. 'We got closer to each other.' "
The journey the three friends take, along with the Glass Cat, is a perilous one, as they navigate the yellow brick road, Tilted forest and Trenches, to escape the Flying Monkeys and Ozma's soldiers. However, Laura J Burns saves the largest twist until the end of the story and her reader is left open-mouthed, fearful and frantic to read her sequel.
Bewitched in Oz is a quick and enjoyable novel and it will be definitely be enjoyed by middle-grade readers and fans of The Wizard of Oz.
Bewitched in Oz may be set in the fantastical land L Frank Baum created and MGM brought to life in the 1939 film, but in Laura J Burns' book there are no wicked witches, brainless scarecrows, cowardly lions or tin men missing a heart. Bewitched in Oz manages to be a celebration of the original tale whilst containing enough creative ingredients to stand alone as a novel.
There are some Oz characters Laura J Burns has chosen to retain in her story, like Ozma, Glinda and the Wizard, but others like 'Dorothy the explorer' are merely talked about. I loved the small references to lines in the book/film:
" 'That's what we're looking for, Tigers and bears.'
'Tigers and bears,' Vashiti repeated, her voice shrill with fear.
'Tigers and bears," Brink agreed.
Arm in arm, they began to walk. Zerie felt better holding on to her friends, as if she were not one girl, but part of a bigger thing."
And,
" 'I think this is how Dorothy the explorer must've felt in the poppy fields.' "
In my opinion Bewitched in Oz is not aimed at a young adult reader, but a middle grade one. Although Zerie and Vashiti are 16 they are very innocent and immature, to a degree which can be irritating.
The story is about magic but perhaps more importantly, trust and friendship,
" 'we don't know for sure that Glinda will even be willing to help us. What if we've come all this way for nothing?'
'It wasn't for nothing,' Brink said, squeezing my arm. 'We got closer to each other.' "
The journey the three friends take, along with the Glass Cat, is a perilous one, as they navigate the yellow brick road, Tilted forest and Trenches, to escape the Flying Monkeys and Ozma's soldiers. However, Laura J Burns saves the largest twist until the end of the story and her reader is left open-mouthed, fearful and frantic to read her sequel.
Bewitched in Oz is a quick and enjoyable novel and it will be definitely be enjoyed by middle-grade readers and fans of The Wizard of Oz.
March 13, 2016
It's a good thing sometimes to fall down in childhood again and what could be better than to do it with a revisited tale or a cult history of your childhood? For me, the Magician of OZ it is full with good memories, it merry, is coloured, amusing, marvellous!! With this children novel, Laura J. Burns attacks a mastodon. We knows the characters, we knows how the things get from there, but she is able to astonish us with a continuation whose happened years later, with new rules and especially new characters!
The story starts with the discovery of the powers of the young, innocent Zerie and especially which does not listen to the orders. Although she is forbid to make magic, she will do what she wants and train. In the course of time, she will made friends like her: Vashti, Tabitha and Brink. Then one evening all will change, Flying Monkeys catch them in the act and captures the beautiful Tabitha. Then their incredible travel starts to save her.
Each character is different, with his own personality, defects, power and ambition. We follow before all the story from Zerie's point of view. About her heartbreak by Ned, her jealousy, her difficulties with Vash then her feelings for Brink. She is the central stone of everything. A desperado which can make decisions and especially which is able to be called in question when it is necessary. Vashti seems to be a more fragile and conceited girl. Tabitha which we see only a little, is the cement of this group of friends. Brink, the only boy with the magic powers, is a lively person, which likes to bicker with Zerie, but his feelings for her are evident.
I really adored the magic side, to see how they are involved, as their powers evolve. Then there is the travel, with descriptions which make us dream and the bounces with abundance. We are not bored, more than once it remembers us of Dorothy and her adventures. All is well control from A to Z, even if the end leaves me on my hunger and lets me hope with a continuation, that I would wait impatiently. A reading more than pleasant, a crush.
The story starts with the discovery of the powers of the young, innocent Zerie and especially which does not listen to the orders. Although she is forbid to make magic, she will do what she wants and train. In the course of time, she will made friends like her: Vashti, Tabitha and Brink. Then one evening all will change, Flying Monkeys catch them in the act and captures the beautiful Tabitha. Then their incredible travel starts to save her.
Each character is different, with his own personality, defects, power and ambition. We follow before all the story from Zerie's point of view. About her heartbreak by Ned, her jealousy, her difficulties with Vash then her feelings for Brink. She is the central stone of everything. A desperado which can make decisions and especially which is able to be called in question when it is necessary. Vashti seems to be a more fragile and conceited girl. Tabitha which we see only a little, is the cement of this group of friends. Brink, the only boy with the magic powers, is a lively person, which likes to bicker with Zerie, but his feelings for her are evident.
I really adored the magic side, to see how they are involved, as their powers evolve. Then there is the travel, with descriptions which make us dream and the bounces with abundance. We are not bored, more than once it remembers us of Dorothy and her adventures. All is well control from A to Z, even if the end leaves me on my hunger and lets me hope with a continuation, that I would wait impatiently. A reading more than pleasant, a crush.
September 11, 2022
12 year old me loved this book
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