"The Wonderful Wizard of Oz" is a children's novel by American author L. Frank Baum, first published in 1900. The novel tells the story of a young girl named Dorothy, who lives with her Aunt Em and Uncle Henry on a farm in Kansas. When a tornado strikes their home, Dorothy and her dog Toto are swept away to the magical land of Oz.
In Oz, Dorothy embarks on a journey to find the Wizard of Oz, who she believes can help her return home. Along the way, she befriends a scarecrow, a tin woodman, and a cowardly lion, who all join her in her quest. Together, they must overcome various obstacles and defeat the Wicked Witch of the West in order to reach the Wizard.
"The Wonderful Wizard of Oz" has become a beloved classic of children's literature, known for its whimsical characters, vivid descriptions of the magical land of Oz, and its timeless message about the power of friendship and self-belief. The novel has been adapted into numerous stage plays, films, and television shows, and has inspired countless sequels, spin-offs, and retellings.