The Shaggy Man of Oz

By: Jack Snow

Narrated by: Wayne Mitchell

Length: 3 hrs and 56 mins

Publisher's summary

Just in time for its 70th anniversary, the classic Oz fairytale is now available as an audiobook fully realized with sound effects and music.

Come along as the famous Shaggy Man of Oz helps the twins Tom and Twink to escape the island of the mysterious wizard Conjo! Guiding them along their way is Twiffle, the little wooden clown come to life; as well as the king of the fairy beavers!

Will this merry band of misfits make it back to the land of Oz? Or will Conjo's evil plan to become the new wizard of Oz become a reality?

With just under four hours of storytelling rich with memorable characters, music from yesteryear, and a story for kids of all ages, The Shaggy Man of Oz is perfect for those long road trips or as a "relief pitcher" for Mom or Dad during story time.

Public Domain (P)2018 Wayne Mitchell

couldn't finish

I was curious about this book after reading the summary, but honestly the story is not compelling and the narration doesn't add to to the story either.

Not too sure about anything

This is the first book I’ve read/listened to by this author. I have not read any other books in the expanded world of Oz. I can’t say I truly liked it. I had a hard time listening to the audio rendition, maybe reading it I would have a different opinion. I’m not sure though. I did not find the characters overly compelling. I was not vested in their plight. I kinda wondered when the story would get some depth.

This is the first book I’ve listened to by this narrator ( Wayne Mitchell) and I am unsure I’d listen to another. I listened to some samples of other books and they seem to have the same characteristics. Maybe a better story could overcome the narration/production issues like...
- the voices for the kids sounded the same. I could never tell who was speaking.
- The story narration and character voices were played at a different volume. To hear the dialogue properly meant the in between story narration was too loud.
- Audio quality was poor- it sounded like listening through a tube
- Background sounds were inconsistent and unnecessary. Like making the sound of a door closing or someone walking. At least it was not the whole book.
- Lots of background music. I don’t know why people feel this is necessary for kids books. They can focus to a well told tale without the extra stimulation. For some kids it’s overstimulating. It’s was hard to hear the narration when the music was loud enough that it competed and was distracting.
On the good side...
- he used a different voice for most characters and they were quite unique.
- he instilled personality to each voice
- his cadence is good and did bring the story to life

There are no explicit sex scenes, excessive violence or swearing.

I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request pand voluntarily left this unbiased review.
Please feel free to comment on whether you found my review helpful.