"The quintessential American fantasy celebrates its 100th anniversary in this definitive edition. More than a children's story, Oz stands as a demarcation point between American's rural past and urban future, harmoniously uniting a democratic spirit and a utopian vision with a prescient dark undercurrent that foreshadowed the Great Depression. This centennial edition, elegantly designed for all ages, includes rare and illuminating materials of interest to both first-time Oz readers and bibliophiles alike. Essays about L. Frank Baum's classic, its impact and enduring appeal accompany the text, and feature revealing critical and biographical information. This is the first in a series of definitive new and collectible Oz editions prepared in conjunction with The Baum Family Trust. Illustrated and fully annotated with essays by major Oz experts."