Day 22: The Road to Oz: Twists, Turns, Bumps, and Triumphs in the Life of L. Frank Baum by Kathleen Krull

This is a picture book biography about the author of The Wonderful Wizard of Oz L. Frank Baum. Baum grew up in a wealthy family and was spoiled by his parents. As an adult, he followed many whims and brilliant ideas in an effort to make a living. Most of these pursuits ended in failure. Baum’s greatest love was spending time with his four sons. Every night he would make up stories to tell his children before bedtime. News of Baum’s talent as a storyteller spread to other children in the neighborhood and soon he was sharing his stories with them as well. He took notes and suggestions from his audience about what they liked and did not like about his stories. Baum created the world of Oz from these suggestions and ideas as well as from life experiences, such as a visit to The White City at the 1893 World’s Fair. This is a wonderful story to share with students when discussing the writing process. It took Baum years to write this story, he wrote and rewrote it. The inspiration for many of the memorable characters came from everyday life and he took the suggestions and criticisms of others. This is all great information to share with students as they start writing their own stories.