The Frank Baum Library

40 Episodes
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By: Frank Baum

Step along the shining road and enter a library where stories never grow old. The Frank Lyman Baum Library is a cozy corner of Oz and beyond, where each episode brings a new chapter read aloud with warmth, wonder, and a dash of mischief. Here you will meet curious travelers, kindly companions, and marvelous lands that sparkle with imagination. Wander in for a moment or stay for the whole adventure, this podcast invites listeners of every age to rediscover the cheerful magic of Baum’s timeless tales.

The Marvelous Land of Oz Chapter 6 - Jack Pumpkinhead's Ride to the Emerald City
#6
Today at 6:30 PM

In which a boy and his curious companions set out on a journey along the yellow brick road, facing unexpected challenges such as crossing a swift river with the help of a wooden horse, and encountering the peculiar customs and inhabitants of the Emerald City. The story gently unfolds with humour and wonder as a pumpkin-headed figure is escorted to meet the city's unusual ruler, setting a tone of delightful adventure and mystery.


The Marvelous Land of Oz Chapter 4 - Tip Makes an Experiment in Magic
#4
Today at 6:30 PM

In which the inventive boy Tip, accompanied by his lively wooden companion Jack Pumpkinhead, ventures into the woods where an unexpected mishap reveals the fragility of Jack’s joints and sparks a curious discussion on life and animation. Encouraged by wonder and a pinch of magical powder, Tip bravely attempts to awaken a wooden saw-horse, leading to a surprising and delightful demonstration of enchantment.


The Marvelous Land of Oz Chapter 5 - The Awakening of the Saw-horse
#5
Today at 6:30 PM

In which a remarkable wooden Steed is brought to life, much to the bemusement of his new companions, and a pair of bark-crafted ears are ingeniously affixed to aid in his understanding and obedience. Accompanied by their peculiar friend Jack Pumpkinhead, they set forth upon a yellow-brick road under the evening sky, preparing to journey towards the fabled Emerald City.


The Marvelous Land of Oz Chapter 2 - The Marvelous Powder of Life
#2
Yesterday at 6:30 PM

In which a resourceful boy named Tip fashions a curious figure from a pumpkin and enlivening powders, resulting in a most astonishing and lively companion with a whimsical face. Meanwhile, the mysterious and formidable old witch Mombi concocts a peculiar potion with foreboding purpose, casting a shadow over Tip's fortunes as night falls upon the dome-shaped farmhouse.


The Marvelous Land of Oz Chapter 1 - Tip Manufactures Pumpkinhead
#1
Yesterday at 6:30 PM

In which a resourceful boy named Tip, living under the care of the mysterious Mombi, fashions a wooden figure topped with a jovial pumpkin for a head, hoping to startle the old woman with his creation. With careful attention and a touch of boyish glee, he clothes his new friend and christens him Jack Pumpkinhead, proud of his lively and unique invention.


The Marvelous Land of Oz Chapter 3 - The Flight of the Fugitives
#3
Yesterday at 6:30 PM

In which a spirited boy named Tip escapes the clutches of an unkind witch, accompanied by the lively pumpkin-headed Jack Pumpkinhead, as they set out on an uncertain journey through a land of purple-hued wonders. Along the way, Tip recounts the curious and colourful history of Oz’s rulers and regions, weaving a tale as enchanting as the landscape itself.


The Wonderful Wizard of Oz Chapter 23 - Glinda The Good Witch Grants Dorothy's Wish
#23
Last Friday at 6:30 PM

In which Dorothy and her loyal companions prepare themselves for a final audience with the gracious and kindly Glinda, who reveals the secret power of Dorothy’s Silver Shoes and how they might return her home. The friends contemplate their futures with thoughtful hope, while Dorothy, bidding farewell with tender emotion, embarks on the swift journey back to her Kansas prairie.


The Wonderful Wizard of Oz Chapter 24 - Home Again
#24
Last Friday at 6:30 PM

In which a dear child returns from wondrous travels to the loving arms of home, where astonishment and joy mingle like sunlight after a storm.


The Wonderful Wizard of Oz Chapter 22 - The Country of the Quadlings
#22
Last Friday at 6:30 PM

In which Dorothy and her companions encounter a peculiar tribe of armless beings known as the Hammer-Heads, whose formidable heads can extend to thwart travellers attempting to cross their rocky hill. With the aid of the Winged Monkeys, they are carried safely over into the vibrant and welcoming country of the Quadlings, where hospitality and kindness offer a moment’s respite before they continue towards the fabled Castle of Glinda.


The Wonderful Wizard of Oz Chapter 19 - Attacked by the Fighting Trees
#19
Last Thursday at 6:30 PM

In which our intrepid friends bid farewell to the enchanting Emerald City and set forth towards the southern lands, only to be waylaid by strange, battling trees whose branches seek to hinder their passage. With steadfast courage and the Tin Woodman’s sharp axe, they overcome these arboreal guardians, only to encounter a smooth, towering wall of gleaming white china that bars their onward way.


The Wonderful Wizard of Oz Chapter 20 - The Dainty China Country
#20
Last Thursday at 6:30 PM

In which Dorothy and her companions discover a wondrous country where everything, from the smallest animal to the tallest princess, is crafted from delicate china and painted with enchanting colours. They tread with the utmost care, witnessing the fragile lives of these beautiful beings who cherish their freedom to move and speak, rather than to be mere ornaments within a cabinet.


The Wonderful Wizard of Oz Chapter 21 - The Lion Becomes the King of Beasts
#21
Last Thursday at 6:30 PM

In which the travellers enter a dense and ancient forest, where the Lion discovers a gathering of animals troubled by a monstrous spider threatening their peace. With courage and cunning, the Lion confronts and defeats the dreadful creature, earning the allegiance of the forest beasts as their new King.


The Wonderful Wizard of Oz Chapter 16 - The Magic Art of the Great Humbug
#16
Last Wednesday at 6:30 PM

In which the clever Wizard of Oz performs his peculiar magic to grant the Scarecrow a mind, the Tin Woodman a heart, and the Cowardly Lion courage, much to their joy and wonder. Yet, beneath the surface of these wondrous gifts, the Wizard contemplates the true nature of his art and the even greater challenge that lies ahead.


The Wonderful Wizard of Oz Chapter 17 - How The Balloon Was Launched
#17
Last Wednesday at 6:30 PM

In which Dorothy and the Wizard collaborate to fashion a grand green silk balloon, intended to carry them across the vast desert and beyond the confines of the Emerald City. Yet, just as the voyage begins, a sudden mishap sends the Wizard soaring alone into the sky, leaving Dorothy and her friends to face the days ahead with wistful hearts.


The Wonderful Wizard of Oz Chapter 18 - Away to the South
#18
Last Wednesday at 6:30 PM

In which Dorothy and her friends, though sorrowful and uncertain, consider ways to overcome the challenges of the vast desert separating her from Kansas, turning to the wisdom of new rulers and the guidance of a trusted soldier. Together, they resolve to journey southward to seek the help of Glinda, facing unknown perils with steadfast hearts and uniting in purpose and friendship.


The Wonderful Wizard of Oz Chapter 15 - The Discovery of Oz, the Terrible
#15
Last Tuesday at 6:30 PM

In which the travellers return to the Emerald City to claim the gifts and assistance promised by the Great Wizard, only to discover that he is not the fearsome being they imagined but rather an ordinary man who relies on clever illusions. Despite his lack of real magic, the Wizard promises to grant their requests and help Dorothy find her way home, provided they keep his secret.


The Wonderful Wizard of Oz Chapter 14 - The Winged Monkeys
#14
Last Tuesday at 6:30 PM

In which Dorothy and her companions find themselves lost in vast fields of flowers, seeking guidance from the Queen of the Mice to reach the Emerald City, and learn to summon the mischievous but obedient Winged Monkeys with the magic of the Golden Cap. As they are carried swiftly through the air, the King of the Monkeys recounts the curious tale of their enchantment and servitude, revealing the wondrous history behind their obedience to the wearer of the Cap.


The Wonderful Wizard of Oz Chapter 13 - The Rescue
#13
Last Tuesday at 6:30 PM

In which Dorothy and the Cowardly Lion joyfully free the Winkies from cruel bondage and set about rescuing their dear friends, the Tin Woodman and the Scarecrow, who are mended and restored with tender care. After a brief respite filled with gifts and warm farewells, the company prepares to pursue their journey once more, buoyed by hopeful promises and the mysterious Golden Cap.


The Wonderful Wizard of Oz Chapter 12 - The Search for the Wicked Witch
#12
Last Monday at 6:30 PM

In which Dorothy and her companions embark on a perilous journey through the wild and untamed country of the West, facing fierce attacks from wolves, crows, and bees summoned by the Wicked Witch, and endure the treacherous magic of the Winged Monkeys who separate them and imprison the Lion. Amidst the gloom of captivity and hardship in the Witch’s castle, Dorothy’s gentle heart and unexpected courage bring about a wondrous and astonishing turn, revealing the hidden power of the Silver Shoes and the strength of Good over Evil.


The Wonderful Wizard of Oz Chapter 11 - The Emerald City of Oz
#11
Last Monday at 6:30 PM

In which Dorothy and her companions arrive at the dazzling City of Emeralds, where everything—from the buildings to the inhabitants—is gleaming green and mystifyingly splendid; each is granted an audience with the enigmatic Wizard of Oz, who appears in a variety of startling forms and presents them with a daunting task they must undertake before receiving his help. Though daunted, the friends resolve to journey forth together, determined to fulfil the Wizard’s challenge in hopes of their true desires being granted.


The Wonderful Wizard of Oz Chapter 10 - The Guardian of the Gates
#10
Last Monday at 6:30 PM

In which the Cowardly Lion, revived from the poppy field's spell, rejoins his companions as they journey along the enchanting yellow brick road through the verdant Land of Oz, encountering wary yet hospitable folk before reaching the magnificent, gleaming gates of the Emerald City. There they meet the green-clad Guardian of the Gates, who equips them with magical spectacles to protect their eyes from the city's dazzling brilliance and leads them onward to the Palace of the Great and powerful Oz.


The Wonderful Wizard of Oz Chapter 7 - The Journey to the Great Oz
#7
03/29/2026

In which Dorothy and her companions face the challenge of crossing a deep, jagged ditch and fend off fearsome creatures known as Kalidahs during their journey through a dark and daunting forest. Amidst trials and teamwork, they press onward to a broad river, where they prepare to build a raft to continue their quest towards the gleaming Emerald City.


The Wonderful Wizard of Oz Chapter 8 - The Deadly Poppy Field
#8
03/29/2026

In which Dorothy and her companions, having nearly lost their Scarecrow friend to the river’s treacherous currents, are aided by a helpful Stork and continue their journey through a beguiling but dangerous poppy field. The enchanting beauty of the blossoms soon gives way to a perilous slumber, compelling the Tin Woodman and Scarecrow to carry the sleeping girl to safety while their brave friend succumbs to the flowers’ spell.


The Wonderful Wizard of Oz Chapter 9 - The Queen of the Field Mice
#9
03/29/2026

In which the Tin Woodman bravely saves the Queen of the Field Mice from a fierce Wildcat, earning the loyalty of her thousands of subjects who lend their aid to rescue the Cowardly Lion from the sleep-inducing poppy field. With the help of a clever wooden cart and the industrious mice, Dorothy and her friends partake in a delicate and wondrous operation that showcases the strength found in the smallest of creatures.


The Wonderful Wizard of Oz Chapter 4 - The Road Through the Forest
#4
03/28/2026

In which Dorothy and the newly lively Scarecrow journey along a rough and lonely stretch of yellow brick road, the Scarecrow recounting his curious and brief existence while they ponder the nature of brains and homesickness. As darkness settles beneath the thick forest canopy, they find refuge in a humble cottage where Dorothy rests and the ever-watchful Scarecrow stands guard through the night.


The Wonderful Wizard of Oz Chapter 5 - The Rescue of the Tin Woodman
#5
03/28/2026

In which Dorothy and the Scarecrow, whilst seeking water and nourishment by a woodland spring, discover and free the Tin Woodman from his rusted immobility with oil and gentle care. The Tin Woodman then recounts his tragic tale and joins their journey, each companion pondering the gifts they hope the Great Oz might bestow.


The Wonderful Wizard of Oz Chapter 6 - The Cowardly Lion
#6
03/28/2026

In which Dorothy and her friends encounter a mighty Lion whose fierce reputation belies a tender and fearful nature, seeking courage to match his kingly title. Together they continue their journey, learning lessons of kindness, protection, and the peculiar troubles of those without hearts.


The Wonderful Wizard of Oz Chapter 1 - The Cyclone
#1
03/27/2026

In which a young girl named Dorothy lives a simple, sun-baked life on the vast, grey prairies of Kansas with her Aunt and Uncle, her one bright joy a small black dog named Toto. As a great cyclone approaches, Dorothy’s quiet world is upended when her house is swept up and borne away on the furious winds, setting her on a journey unlike any other.


The Wonderful Wizard of Oz Chapter 2 - The Council with the Munchkins
#2
03/27/2026

In which a young girl named Dorothy awakens to find herself in a land of enchantment and meets the kind Witch of the North, who explains the fate of the Wicked Witch of the East and the freedom of the Munchkins. Though longing to return home, Dorothy learns she must journey to the distant City of Emeralds, guided by the yellow brick road and protected by the Witch’s magical kiss.


The Wonderful Wizard of Oz Chapter 3 - How Dorothy Saved the Scarecrow
#3
03/27/2026

In which a brave and kind-hearted girl begins her journey along a sparkling yellow road, clutching a basket and donning a pair of mysterious silver shoes, with the sun shining cheerily upon her and the countryside filled with the song of birds and the warmth of friendly faces. Along the way, she rescues a peculiar, talking figure stuffed with straw who longs for brains, and together they set forth towards a distant, gleaming city that holds hope for their wishes.


Queen Zixi of Ix Chapter 25 - The Fairy-Queen
#25
03/26/2026

In which the fairy queen appears to rescind the magic cloak’s wishes, restoring balance and cautioning against the use of witchcraft, much to the mixed feelings of those present. The tale gently reveals the comforting resolutions for Noland’s folk and the blossoming of noble virtues, as the kingdom embraces a future marked by wisdom and heartfelt goodwill.


Queen Zixi of Ix Chapter 22 - Ruffles Carries the Silver Vial
#22
03/25/2026

In which Queen Zixi, moved by a loyal dog's tale of hardship under the menace of the Roly-Rogues, devises a clever plan involving a magical elixir to free the oppressed citizens of Noland. Meanwhile, Bud and Princess Fluff test the magic cloak’s power, discovering that its enchantments fall short until the cloak is made whole once more.


Queen Zixi of Ix Chapter 23 - The Destruction of the Monsters
#23
03/25/2026

In which the brave army of Ix, led by the witch-queen Zixi, undertakes a secretive ascent to confront the monstrous Roly-Rogues, employing a cunning potion to lull them into a deep sleep. Following the creatures’ capture and removal from the city, the people of Noland celebrate their newfound freedom with joyous feasting and heartfelt gratitude.


Queen Zixi of Ix Chapter 24 - The Sailorman’s Return
#24
03/25/2026

In which the kingdom of Noland begins to recover its former splendour under King Bud’s careful guidance, as the city of Nole buzzes with renewed commerce and the arrival of the long-awaited sailorman stirs great anticipation. A grand assembly in the palace unfolds with intriguing revelations, as magic and justice weave together beneath the watchful eyes of royals and courtiers alike.


Queen Zixi of Ix Chapter 21 - The Search for the Magic Cloak
#21
03/24/2026

In which Queen Zixi and her companions embark on a determined quest to recover a precious magic cloak that has been sadly scattered and repurposed by unsuspecting village women, requiring patient mending and thorough retrieval of missing patches. Along their journey, they encounter curious woodland creatures and grapple with the hope and uncertainty of one elusive piece held far away at sea.


Queen Zixi of Ix Chapter 19 - The Bravery of Aunt Rivette
#19
03/24/2026

In which the clever Aunt Rivette retrieves a seemingly magical cloak amidst the uproar of the Roly-Rogues, only to find that its powers are not what they seem when Bud attempts to use it against their invaders. Undeterred, the children and their faithful companions prepare to seek the aid of Queen Zixi, embarking upon a swift flight over mountains and rivers with Aunt Rivette’s gentle assistance.


Queen Zixi of Ix Chapter 20 - In the Palace of the Witch-Queen
#20
03/24/2026

In which Bud, Fluff, and Aunt Rivette arrive at the splendid city of Ix and receive a gracious welcome from the kindly Queen Zixi, who reveals the curious tale of an imitation magic cloak and her past designs upon it. Together they plan to recover the true cloak in hopes that it may aid them against their enemies, sharing a hopeful banquet surrounded by new friends and songs.


Queen Zixi of Ix Chapter 18 - The Conquest of Noland
#18
03/23/2026

In which a peculiar army of round, rolling invaders descends upon the city of Nole, causing fear and confusion with their strange appearance and unusual methods of attack. Meanwhile, Aunt Rivette, recognising the danger, takes to the air with a daring plan to recover a magical cloak that may hold the key to restoring peace.


Queen Zixi of Ix Chapter 17 - The Descent of the Roly-Rogues
#17
03/23/2026

In which King Bud and Princess Fluff enjoy a time of prosperity and peace in the kingdom of Noland, though the peculiar arrival of a strange creature called a Roly-Rogue upon a palace tower puzzles all who behold it. Soon after, a startling event unfolds as countless Roly-Rogues descend from the misty heights above the North Mountains, setting the scene for an unexpected and lively incursion.


Queen Zixi of Ix Chapter 16 - The Plain Above the Clouds
#16
03/23/2026

In which the towering North Mountains, shaped like immense stairways, conceal a mysterious people known as the Roly-Rogues, whose round, elastic bodies allow them to roll rather than walk. Upon glimpsing the distant city of Nole below, these quarrelsome creatures decide to leave their cloud-enshrouded home and descend in great numbers, preparing for a bold encounter with the unknown valley beneath.