Ruth Plumly Thompson had the tough job of continuing L. Frank Baum's Oz series, and with The Hungry Tiger of Oz, she proves she was more than up to the task. She throws us right into the action with a classic fairy-tale problem that gets an Ozzy spin.

The Story

The adventure kicks off when pirates kidnap Prince Inga from the peaceful island of Pingaree. His friends in Oz—Betsy Bobbin, the ever-kind Shaggy Man, and the Hungry Tiger himself—set out to save him. The tiger is a fantastic character: he's huge, powerful, and has a stomach that's always rumbling, but he's cursed with a tender heart that prevents him from ever satisfying his appetite. Their journey takes them across strange seas and into the creepy Kingdom of the Vegetable People, where they face off against the villainous King Umb. It's a race against time filled with clever escapes, unexpected allies, and the kind of imaginative magic that makes Oz so enduring.

Why You Should Read It

This book is a joy because it doesn't just copy Baum's formula; it adds its own flavor. Thompson's humor is a bit snappier, and her characters feel very real in their dilemmas. The Hungry Tiger's struggle is surprisingly touching—how do you live with your nature when it conflicts with your morals? Betsy Bobbin is a wonderful, practical heroine, and the story moves at a clip that keeps you turning pages. It's packed with the whimsy you expect, but it also has a little more bite (pun intended!).

Final Verdict

This book is a treat for Oz fans who've read the originals and are hungry for more. It's also a great pick for anyone who loves classic middle-grade fantasy with heart, humor, and a truly unique cast. If you enjoy stories where the quest is fun and the characters learn something about friendship and courage along the way, you'll devour this one. Just maybe don't read it on an empty stomach!