The Wizard of Oz: MGM Movie Edition (1939) is a visually striking adaptation of L. Frank Baum‘s classic novel, published to coincide with the premiere of Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer’s iconic film starring Judy Garland. This special edition transforms Baum’s original text into a cinematic companion, abridging the story to match the screenplay and lavishly illustrating it with full-color stills from the movie, including Dorothy’s arrival in Oz, the Yellow Brick Road, and the Emerald City. The book’s design mirrors the film’s Art Deco aesthetic, with glossy pages and vivid Technicolor reproductions that immerse readers in the visual splendor of 1939 Hollywood.
Notably, this edition incorporates key changes made for the film—such as the Wicked Witch of the West’s expanded role and the famous ruby slippers (silver in Baum’s book)—while omitting elements like the Quadlings and the Witch of the North. Rare copies may include promotional inserts or theater advertisements, making it a coveted artifact for Oz collectors and film historians alike.
For devotees of Oz, The Annotated Wizard of Oz (2000) offers deeper analysis of Baum’s original text, while The Making of The Wizard of Oz (1977) by Aljean Harmetz delves into the film’s production lore.
