The Wonderful Wizard of Oz

Reach for this book when your child expresses feelings of inadequacy or fears they lack the internal tools to handle big life changes. It is a perfect choice for a child who feels like an outsider or who is struggling to see their own strengths. The story follows Dorothy, a young girl swept from her Kansas home to the magical Land of Oz. To get back, she must journey to the Emerald City with a group of unconventional friends: a Scarecrow, a Tin Woodman, and a Cowardly Lion. While on the surface it is a whimsical adventure, it deeply explores the realization that the qualities we seek, like intelligence, heart, and courage, are often already within us. For ages 8 to 12, it provides a comforting narrative about self-reliance and the importance of a chosen family. Parents will appreciate how it validates a child's longing for home while celebrating the bravery it takes to navigate the unknown.