This is the real deal—the actual book that started it all, not the movie adaptation everyone knows. And honestly? It holds up remarkably well for a 125-year-old novel.
The imagination is still top-tier: flying monkeys, emerald cities, talking lions, magic shoes (silver in the book, not ruby). Baum created a fully-realized fantasy world that feels fresh and weird and wonderful. The 160 original illustrations in this edition genuinely add to the experience.
But let's be real: the prose is from 1900. It's not hard, but it's definitely slower and more formal than modern middle-grade fiction. Some kids will eat it up, especially if they're already into classics or fantasy. Others will bounce off it hard. One Reddit parent noted it 'didn't feel dated' when reading to their kids, but your mileage may vary depending on what your kid is used to.
The violence is worth mentioning—two witches die (one crushed, one melted), there are legitimately scary creatures, and the whole 'tornado rips you from your family' premise is heavy. Common Sense Media says age 8+, which feels right for most kids, though sensitive ones might need to wait or have conversations during the scary parts.
Bottom line: If your kid likes reading and fantasy, this is an enriching, imaginative classic that teaches good lessons without being preachy. If they're reluctant readers or used to fast-paced modern stories, maybe try the audiobook first or wait a year or two.