As a child, The Wizard of Oz was a magical event in my household, airing only once a year on TV. The music, characters, and story were unforgettable, and when I later learned the tragic details of Judy Garland’s life added a bittersweet layer. When my book club picked Finding Dorothy by Elizabeth Letts, I couldn’t wait to dive into the history behind the beloved film.
This enjoyable novel centers on Maud Gage Baum, the widow of The Wonderful Wizard of Oz author, L. Frank Baum. Told through Maud’s eyes, the story alternates between her younger years as a suffragette’s headstrong daughter and her later life, when she visits the 1939 Wizard of Oz film set. Maud’s connection with 16-year-old Judy Garland, especially after hearing her sing “Over the Rainbow,” is poignant. Judy’s struggles on set with overbearing demands from the director, producer, and even her mother are heartbreaking, and Maud’s efforts to protect her are touching.
What stood out most to me was how Letts brought historical figures to life, blending real events with a richly imagined narrative. I loved the glimpse into Frank and Maud’s early years and the inspiration behind Dorothy. The behind-the-scenes look at the movie’s costumes, sets, and near-miss with cutting its iconic song was fascinating.
This is an uplifting story about dreams, resilience, and finding meaning in life’s challenges. Finding Dorothy left me inspired—and eager to explore Frank Baum’s original works.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4/5 stars)