So we're off to the land of fairy tales for this month's issue. I decided that, instead of relying on my backpack for an answer, I'd head to the library and the Muggle Studies area. We all know the Wizarding fairy tales, but what about the Muggle ones?
I scanned the shelves and finally one stood out to me. I pulled it from the shelf noticing that it was a rather short book, only 154 pages - but the title, The Wonderful Wizard of Oz, instantly stood out to me. The author of this book is L. Frank Baum (just in case you want to look it up yourself!). I knew I wouldn't have much time for reading with exams coming up, so I took the book out and headed to my favourite spot in the courtyard and began to look through the book. Believe it or not, the book was made into what the Muggles call a movie but I've never read the book.
The main character is a girl called Dorothy and I soon learnt that she lived in Kansas in the United States. She has a pet dog called Toto, and lives with her Uncle Henry and Auntie Em. I instantly felt sorry for Dorothy. She's an orphan who's suddenly whisked into an adventure by a cyclone.
I thought the contrast between the grey and colourless Kansas and the extremely colourful Land of Oz is very interesting and contrasting. To me, it mirrors the contrast of the world that Dorothy has left behind and the world that she has now entered. She, as well as I, meet the Munchkins and then she heads off on yet another journey. It is a journey that will eventually lead Dorothy home.
For a moment I think about my home at Malfoy Manor and how it means so much to me. I know that I'd be just as desperate if I was in a situation like hers. Home is everything and to be without it would be terrible! Not being able to see Narcissa, Lucius, and Draco is a very unpleasant thought.
As the journey carried on I met a scarecrow with no brains. I had to chuckle as that reminds me of the end of year exams when we all seem to have to search extra hard for the information that we need to get. The Tin Man, who has no heart, but still feels something at times no doubt, and then the Cowardly Lion who has no courage (not really Gryffindor material there). I might be a Slytherin, but I have felt the exact same way before and can completely sympathize with the character ... well all the characters really.
There are many times throughout the book that I could relate to the characters extremely well. I really felt like I was on the journey with them and that is never a bad thing with a book. It's the sign of a great story-writer - if they can suck you in on the journey.
I did feel that the book was more aimed at children though, as it was a very short book and the words were rather simple at times. But it's called a classic and I suppose that would be the same as what The Tales of Beedle the Bard are to us. It apparently is loved by all ages and that really does show how popular it is with Muggles. Maybe I should ask the Professor of Muggle Studies to include it in the syllabus? It would be an interesting topic and a way of learning about Muggle authors that's for sure!
I hadn't planned to finish the book in one go, but it was so short and easy to read that I had soon finished the book. Upon seeing Professor Snape approaching me, I shoved the book back in my bag. He simply raised an eyebrow and told me curfew was about to start before he led the way back to the dungeons and I simply followed him back to our common room. I guess he's not that bad after all.
Until next time,
Adele x