Cover of Ozma of Oz (Wonderful Oz Books)
As most of you now know, I select two “off-kilter projects” for myself each year. They aren’t really so odd, but they take my mind in different directions from what I am accustomed. In 2013, my OKPs are to get a bicycle and learn to ride again–after many years–and to read all the authorized Wizard of Oz books.
Last week I finished Ozma of OZ.
It is great fun, and I loved the hen.
Here are a couple of my favorite quotes:
“Why, he looks just like Santa Claus–only he isn’t the same color!” whispered Dorothy to her friend; but the Nome King heard the speech, and it made him laugh aloud.
“‘He had a red face and a round little belly That shook when he laughed like a bowl full of jelly!'” quoth the monarch, in a pleasant voice; and they could all see that he really did shake like jelly when he laughed.
“You see, in this country are a number of youths who do not like to work, and the college is an excellent place for them.”
“I’ve married a man who owns nine cows,” said Jinjur to Ozma, “and now I am happy and contented and willing to lead a quiet life and mind my own business.”
“Where is your husband?” asked Ozma.
“He is in the house, nursing a black eye,” replied Jinjur, calmly. “The foolish man would insist upon milking the red cow when I wanted him to milk the white one; but he will know better next time, I am sure.”
Around this important group was ranged the Army of Oz, and as Dorothy looked at the handsome uniforms of the Twenty-Seven she said:
“Why, they seem to be all officers.”
“They are, all except one,” answered the Tin Woodman. “I have in my Army eight Generals, six Colonels, seven Majors and five Captains, besides one private for them to command. I’d like to promote the private, for I believe no private should ever be in public life; and I’ve also noticed that officers usually fight better and are more reliable than common soldiers. Besides, the officers are more important looking, and lend dignity to our army.”
Now I am on to Book 4.
Hopeful 