This story covers the origins of the Wizard of Oz, not to inform but only to remind you of where it came from: some context about the author, the book, the film and the television broadcast. There is just one clip of Judy Garland singing the intro to "Somewhere Over The Rainbow".
See related Meema Stories for more detail on the characters, the plot and the most popular musical numbers we love to remember.
The Wizard of Oz is rich with characters and themes for discussion. But it's important to realize that not all of these themes will be equally engaging for everyone. But regardless of the theme, remember to think about a) how it makes you feel, b) what you notice in the story and c) what else comes to mind when you recall the Wizard of Oz.
For example, you might start by talking about the history of the story. Did you know it was a book? Isn't it interesting that it started as stories the author told his children? Now we think of it as a television phenomenon, but at the time it was a major motion picture with huge stars, a huge budget and big box office.
What does it remind you of? Can you remember the first time you saw the picture? Was it on TV or in the theater? What do you think of the kids on the floor in the living room? Did you see it in color or black and white?
Did you get dressed up to see it?
What quotes do you remember from the picture? "If I only had a brain?" "No place like home." "We're not in Kansas any more, Toto." "The man behind the curtain." And so on.
