It seems fair to say that it’s the sign of a good book when it inspires countless spin-offs and adaptations, so by that reckoning L. Frank Baum’s The Wonderful Wizard of Oz is a stonkingly-good read. I must admit I haven’t read the original story but feel like I’ve done the literary equivalent of osmosis over the years, gleaning the details and atmosphere from the following:

• The Wizard of Oz: a perfect match for the then fancy new Technicolor, the jewel bright and saturated colours are what I remember most.
• Wicked: I loved the book and the stage version, and since I last looked at Gregory Maguire’s oevure he seems to have written three further tales in his expanded Oz universe. It’s the book that just keeps giving.
• Oz the Great and Powerful: Out this month, James Franco plays the circus magician-trickster who takes advantage of being blown through to Oz. Looks promising, you can view the trailer here.
• I must admit to having a soft spot for the story due to memories of a school production of The Wiz – the motown musical version of Dorothy’s (played by Diana Ross) adventures. Need a bit of a lift to your day? Get a load of this clip with a very brown, round-nosed Michael Jackson as the scarecrow:

Can you think of any other rich works that have spawned more spin-offs?

Lesley Crooks, Sales & Digital Manager