“No thief, however skillful, can rob one of knowledge, and that is why knowledge is the best and safest treasure to acquire.”
― L. Frank Baum, The Lost Princess of Oz*

The Basics
This is an introductory resource guide to L. (Lyman) Frank Baum. Best known as the author who penned the series that sparked the generation-spanning, much-loved movie the Wizard of Oz in 1939. What is little known about Baum is that though he is best known for MGM’s posthumously produced movie, he was not only an extremely prolific writer but also the lead author in a genre founded around and by his work; American Children’s Literature. The information provided on this site offers connections to information pertaining to Baum, his life, influences, works and other creative offshoots.
Though this resource guide is designed for a graduate-level class, it can be used by any individual who has an interest in Baum’s catalogue of literary works, history, and views.





