🤖The Wizard of Oz: Book vs. Movie

The Wizard of Oz: How the Book and Movie Are Similar and Surprisingly Different

Many families first meet Dorothy through the beloved movie, but the story actually began as a book published decades earlier. While the book and film share the same heart, they tell the story in noticeably different ways. Exploring these differences helps children understand how stories change when they move from page to screen and why both versions matter.

Let’s take a closer look at the key differences between The Wonderful Wizard of Oz and the classic film The Wizard of Oz.

Scene of Dorothy running with Toto

1. How the Story Begins

In the book:

Dorothy’s life in Kansas is described as plain, grey, and serious. There is no hint that Oz is a dream. When the cyclone comes, it simply carries Dorothy and Toto to another land.

In the movie:

The story begins with extra drama. Dorothy runs away, meets new characters, and is knocked unconscious during the storm. At the end, Oz is revealed to be a dream, changing how the audience understands the entire adventure.

Big difference:

The book treats Oz as a real place. The movie frames Oz as something Dorothy imagines.

2. Kansas vs. Oz

In the book:

Kansas is dull and colourless, while Oz is bright, magical, and full of life.

In the movie:

This contrast becomes visual. Kansas appears in sepia tones, while Oz bursts into colour when Dorothy arrives.

Why it matters:

The movie uses colour as a storytelling tool, while the book relies on descriptive language to create the same effect.

3. The Wicked Witches

In the book:

There are two good witches and two wicked witches. The Witch of the West is cruel and powerful, but she does not melt from water in such a dramatic way.

In the movie:

The witches are simplified. Glinda and the Wicked Witch of the West become central figures, and the melting scene becomes one of the most memorable moments in film history.

Big difference:

The movie streamlines the story by combining roles and heightening drama.

Lion, Scarecrow & Tin Man

4. The Scarecrow, Tin Woodman, and Cowardly Lion

In the book:

Each character already shows the quality they believe they lack.

• The Scarecrow is clever
• The Tin Woodman is deeply emotional
• The Lion often acts bravely

Their journeys are about realizing what they already have.

In the movie:

This idea remains, but it is reinforced through songs and emotional scenes that make the lesson clearer and more dramatic.

Teaching takeaway:

Both versions teach children about self-belief, but the book does it subtly while the movie makes it obvious.

5. The Ruby Slippers vs. Silver Shoes

In the book:

Dorothy wears silver shoes, which are powerful and magical.

In the movie:

They become ruby slippers, chosen to stand out on screen.

Fun fact for kids:

The colour change was made for visual impact, not story reasons.

6. The Role of Music

In the book:

There is no singing. The story moves forward through action and dialogue.

In the movie:

Songs like “Over the Rainbow” add emotion, character development, and memorability.

Why this matters:

Movies often use music to help audiences feel something quickly—something books don’t need.

7. The Ending

In the book:

Dorothy returns home using the power of the silver shoes. Oz continues to exist, and Dorothy later returns in future books.

In the movie:

Dorothy wakes up in Kansas and learns that what truly mattered was home, family, and love.

Major difference:

The book builds a fantasy world that continues. The movie closes the door on Oz as a dream.

Why These Differences Matter for Kids

Comparing the book and movie helps children:

• Understand that adaptations change stories
• Notice how medium affects storytelling
• Think critically about what stays the same and what changes
• Appreciate both reading and watching as different experiences

For homeschooling families and classrooms, this comparison is a perfect introduction to:

• Story elements
• Point of view
• Theme
• Fact vs. interpretation

Take Away

The book and movie versions of The Wizard of Oz tell the same story—but not in the same way. The book invites readers into a lasting fantasy world, while the movie delivers a powerful emotional message about home, belonging, and community.

Together, they show children that stories can grow, change, and still keep their magic—whether they’re read aloud at bedtime or watched on a rainy afternoon 🌈

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