You’ve met them in your own life: the influential mentor who made a difference . . . the public servant whose energy and dedication are an inspiration to all . . . the business leader who overcame adversity to succeed in an admirable endeavour . . . the visionary who drew an entire community or organisation together.

You may not realise that you’ve also met them in a classic of American literature and cinema.

Veteran educator Robert V. Smith adopts the virtues of the beloved and familiar characters from the Wizard of Oz stories, along with the trials and triumphs of their creator, L. Frank Baum, as a road map for personal and professional growth. The magical archetypes of the Scarecrow, the Tin Woodman, the Cowardly Lion, Dorothy, and the Wizard guide readers—especially those preparing for college and career—to a deeper understanding of lifelong learning, loving, serving, and leading.

Smith blends Baum’s fascinating biography and publishing history with practical advice and philosophy drawn from a rich array of sources. For seekers and teachers alike, The Way of Oz opens the door to an imaginative, inspiring journey and challenges every reader to make a difference.