# To My Readers explained — Dorothy and the Wizard in Oz

> Chapter companion for Dorothy and the Wizard in Oz by L. Frank Baum.

## What happens

L. Frank Baum addresses his young readers, explaining that their persistent demands for more Oz stories compel him to continue writing. He acknowledges the popularity of Dorothy and the Wizard, introduces new characters like Jim the Cab-Horse and Eureka the Kitten, and expresses his gratitude for the children's letters and suggestions that help shape his books.

## Themes in this chapter

### Friendship and Loyalty

Baum expresses deep gratitude and loyalty to his young readers, emphasizing the reciprocal bond between author and audience.

### Humbug vs. True Magic

The Wizard is acknowledged as a humbug, yet his enduring popularity suggests a kind of true magic in storytelling.

## Character check-ins

### Dorothy Gale

Reaffirmed as a central character in the Oz series, beloved by readers.

### The Wizard

Readers requested more about him; he returns as the same humbug Wizard as before.

### Princess Ozma

Introduced again in this story, loved by the author and readers.

### Jim the Cab-Horse

New character introduced in this book.

### Eureka the Kitten

New character introduced; Dorothy takes her kitten instead of Toto.

### Toto

Mentioned as being left behind in Kansas; readers wanted him included but he could not appear in this story.

## Key lines

> It’s no use; no use at all. The children won’t let me stop telling tales of the Land of Oz.

Baum feels compelled by his young readers to continue writing Oz stories.

_Opens the preface with a playful tone of surrender to his audience's demands._

> This is Our Book—mine and the children’s.

Baum considers the book a collaborative effort between himself and his readers.

_Highlights the participatory nature of his storytelling._

> To have pleased you, to have interested you, to have won your friendship, and perhaps your love, through my stories, is to my mind as great an achievement as to become President of the United States.

Baum values the affection of his readers as highly as the highest political office.

_Expresses the author's deep emotional connection to his audience._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/dorothy_and_the_wizard_in_oz_se/chapters/to-my-readers
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/dorothy_and_the_wizard_in_oz_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/dorothy_and_the_wizard_in_oz_se/chapters