The Munchkins of Oz

Rating:
Summary: A big tribute to a tiny few
Review: "The Munchkins of Oz" is a fascinating book, the first of many Oz installments to shed light upon the unsung inhabitants of Munchkinland and their contributions to one of the greatest movies ever to cyclone out of Hollywood.

Steve Cox shows a candid reverence for his topic, having befriended many of the little people who guided Dorothy on her way to the Emerald City. Most importantly, Cox gives real-life, human stature to a unique group of entertainers who were regarded as little more than film extras for decades, and he tells their story with emotion, humor and refreshing frankness, which makes for a very easy read. Through his extensive research, Cox finally puts the "Under the Rainbow" rumors in their proper perspective, demonstrating that the Singer Midgets were hardworking, professional actors (before and after Oz) who, as a result of Tinseltown's gossipy lore, bore the brunt of an escalating bad reputation over the years.

Lots of great anecdotes and interesting bits about the movie itself, and the all-star cast as well. Also abundant are current-day updates on the lives of the miniature performers, who are finally enjoying a long-overdue nod from an industry which too often overlooks its stars of yesteryear.

Rating:
Summary: A big tribute to a tiny few
Review: "The Munchkins of Oz" is a fascinating book, the first of many Oz installments to shed light upon the unsung inhabitants of Munchkinland and their contributions to one of the greatest movies ever to cyclone out of Hollywood.

Steve Cox shows a candid reverence for his topic, having befriended many of the little people who guided Dorothy on her way to the Emerald City. Most importantly, Cox gives real-life, human stature to a unique group of entertainers who were regarded as little more than film extras for decades, and he tells their story with emotion, humor and refreshing frankness, which makes for a very easy read. Through his extensive research, Cox finally puts the "Under the Rainbow" rumors in their proper perspective, demonstrating that the Singer Midgets were hardworking, professional actors (before and after Oz) who, as a result of Tinseltown's gossipy lore, bore the brunt of an escalating bad reputation over the years.

Lots of great anecdotes and interesting bits about the movie itself, and the all-star cast as well. Also abundant are current-day updates on the lives of the miniature performers, who are finally enjoying a long-overdue nod from an industry which too often overlooks its stars of yesteryear.

Rating:
Summary: Great book! Great pictures! Great stories!
Review: I first read this book when the first edition came out, and was really impressed with the depth in which the author went to gather the information for this book -- hours spent locating and contacting the surviving Munchkins, all the interviews that took place, etc. This is NOT one of my favorite movies, by any means, but I always liked the first seen in Oz, where Dorothy meets the Munchkins, and this book really showed you who these people were and how they managed to get into the movie. Alot of great pictures help make the book really stand out. With each reissue (this is the third edition of the book), the author is able to provide a little bit more information on the Munchkin actors and actresses, and provides additional pictures to keep the experience of the book fresh. I would highly recommend not just this edition, but the two previous editions if you are able to find them. A great read!

Rating:
Summary: The Lollipop Guild Lives
Review: This is probably the most interesting Oz book in my collection. Finally someone reveals who these little people are, and in such an entertaining manner. I couldn't put this book down. I've read so many books about Prod. 1060, aka "The Wizard of Oz" (MGM) which are dry and stale. This book puts the whole experience into perspective and provides a human side to the Munchkin actors. I'm glad to hear some of them survive. The photographs in here are glorious. The color photography jumps out at you. Bravo to Steven Cox for doing such a handsome job and such a respectful job with "The Munchkins of Oz." If you want a book on Oz that is unique--this is the one.