THE REAL WIZARD OF OZ The Life and Times of L. Frank Baum

Brooke Heldman narrates this biography as if it were a fairy tale, and that's appropriate as THE WONDERFUL WIZARD OF OZ is considered an American fairy tale. The author shows how influences and incidents in the childhood of L. Frank Baum are reflected in his books. Heldman captures the author's sense of wonder for her subject and his work. She modulates her voice when quoting Baum directly, providing listeners with clear cues. During long passages of narrative, she adopts a more studied tone. The only weakness in the production comes from the book itself. The author makes several historical side trips, which slow down the story of Baum's life and add little but length. R.C.G. © AudioFile 2014, Portland, Maine [Published: JULY 2014]