"Since it was first introduced over a hundred years ago in The Wonderful Wizard of Oz, L. Frank Baum's world of Oz has become one of the most enduring and beloved creations in children's literature. It has influenced numerous prominent writers and intellectuals and become a lasting part of the culture itself." "In this adult biography of Baum, Katharine M. Rogers discusses some of the aspects that made his work unique and have likely contributed to Oz's long-lasting appeal, including Baum's early support of feminism and how it was reflected in his characters, his interest in theosophy and how it took form in his books, and the celebration in his stories of traditional American values. Grounding his imaginative creations, particularly in his fourteen Oz books, in the reality of his day, Rogers explores the fascinating life and influences of America's greatest writer for children."--Jacket.… (more)