I was one of those who grew up with the enchanting movie version of the Wizard of Oz. In elementary school, I learned that there was a book version, and being very "into" fantasy at the time, I determined to read it. Imagine my surprise when the ruby slippers were actually silver, the Emerald City looked literally emerald, and the Wicked Witch of the West not only wasn't green, she had an eye patch!

The differences, however, between the movie and the book fascinated me. I loved the little town of china and the red country of the Quadlings. Although I think the movie was very well adapted, I think the book is one of the most imaginative I've read. I highly recommend it.