Rinkitink in Oz

About the book

When invaders devastate Pingaree, Prince Inga must act with few companions and an extraordinary inheritance: three pearls whose powers offer strength, protection, and advice. King Rinkitink supplies humour rather than obvious military competence, while Bilbil the goat has objections to almost everything. Their journey carries them through hostile island kingdoms and encounters in which magical advantages can be lost, misunderstood, or used with courage. Baum places much of the adventure beyond Oz before bringing its wider fairyland connections into play. The changing company keeps the story from becoming a simple demonstration of invincibility. Inga's task requires judgment and loyalty as well as power, and the comic quarrels repeatedly remind readers that useful allies need not look or behave like conventional heroes.

• Courage and judgment
• Unlikely companions
• Rescue and loyalty

Why read it

For an Oz adventure centred on a new young hero and a wonderfully ill-matched travelling company.

Fantasy novel · English text