On August 25th, 1939, MGM’s adaptation of The Wizard of Oz premiered in US theaters, and our popular culture was forever changed. Last year, the re-release of the film on the big screen grossed $1 million in a single day, and to date, there have been over 130 cover versions of “Over the Rainbow.” 

I admit it; I have more of a connection with the movies than I ever had with L. Frank Baum's books.  For many people, their first viewing is a memory imprinted forever. Were you more afraid of the flying monkeys or the Wicked Witch?  When did you first realize that the Scarecrow, Tin Man and Lion were also the farm hands?  Maybe, like me, you’ve downloaded the iconic witch’s theme  as your ringtone? ( it’s a useful one!)

If you’ve seen the movie a million times, but haven’t actually delved into its fascinating history, these titles will take you down the Yellow Brick Road and then some.

 

The Road to Oz: The Evolution, Creation and Legacy of a Motion Picture Masterpiece by Jay Scarfone

The most recent and comprehensive exploration of the history, genesis, and lasting appeal of the film, this volume is meticulously researched and written by two of the foremost Oz experts. The authors also debunk several of the myths and rumors that have mistakenly become part of the Oz lore.

 

 

The Wizard of Oz: 75 Years Along the Yellow Brick Road

Published by Time-Life, this book is most notable for its amazing photographs.

 

 

 

 

The Wizard of Oz: The Official 75th Anniversary Companion by William Stillman and Jay Scarfone

Although the Library only has this title in e-book form, there is a coffee table print version available. The Library DOES own the Official 50th Anniversary Pictorial History which is a similar, albeit older volume by the same author with similar information and copious photographs. However, as these titles are “official”, don’t expect any real “dirt”. The title above is better for the more controversial stories.

 

 

The Wonderful Wizard of Oz: The Making of a Movie Classic

This documentary, directed by Jack Haley, Jr., son of the actor who played the Tin Man, has lots of rare behind the scenes footage and reminiscences of cast members and their families.

 

 

 

 

The Making of The Wizard of Oz: Movie Magic and Studio Power in the Prime of MGM by Aljean Harmetz

Because this book was originally published in 1977, it includes interviews with some of the original cast and crew. The introduction by Margaret Hamilton alone makes this a must for any Oz fan. The book is also an in-depth exploration of the Hollywood studio system in its heyday.

 

 

 

The Wizard of Oz FAQ: All That's Left to Know About Life According to Oz by David J. Hogan

Similar to other titles in the popular FAQ series, this volume covers all things Oz, from the basic to the esoteric minutia.  It has more of a textbook feel than a browsing feel.

 

 

 

 

1939: The Making of Six Great Films From Hollywood's Greatest Year by Charles F. Adams

In addition to The Wizard of Oz, this book also has chapters on Gone With the Wind, Mr. Smith Goes to Washington, The Hound of the Baskervilles, Stagecoach, and The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn.

 

 

 

 

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Have trouble reading standard print? Many of these titles are available in formats for patrons with print disabilities.

Staff picks are chosen by NYPL staff members and are not intended to be comprehensive lists. We'd love to hear your ideas too, so leave a comment and tell us what you’d recommend. And check out our Staff Picks browse tool for more recommendations!