Plot Summary
Hollywood's Enchanted Kingdom Beckons Maud
In 1938, Maud Baum stands resolute outside the gates of M-G-M Studios, determined to ensure the film adaptation of her late husband Frank's book, "The Wonderful Wizard of Oz," remains true to his vision. As the widow of L. Frank Baum, she feels a profound connection to the story and its characters. Despite initial rebuffs from the studio, Maud's resolve is unwavering, fueled by her mother's teachings on persistence. The studio, a bustling hub of creativity, mirrors the magical world of Oz, and Maud is both awed and nostalgic as she steps into this realm of fantasy.
Maud's Determination to Protect Dorothy
Gaining access to the studio, Maud meets Judy Garland, the young actress cast as Dorothy. Judy's vulnerability and eagerness to please remind Maud of Dorothy's innocence. Struck by Judy's talent, Maud worries about the pressures the young actress faces. Seeing parallels between Judy and Dorothy, both needing protection and guidance, Maud's maternal instincts kick in. She feels a renewed sense of purpose to ensure the film honors the spirit of the book and the character of Dorothy.
A Suffragist's Daughter Faces Challenges
Growing up in a household led by her suffragist mother, Matilda, Maud learns the importance of standing up for one's beliefs. Her childhood is marked by a strong sense of justice and a desire for independence. Maud's early experiences, including a memorable encounter with a scarecrow, shape her into a determined and resilient woman. These formative years instill in her the courage to face the challenges she encounters later in life, both in her personal journey and in her quest to protect Dorothy's legacy.
A Theatrical Romance Begins
During a Christmas visit to her friend Josie's home, Maud meets Frank Baum, a charismatic theater man. Their connection is immediate, and Maud is drawn to Frank's creativity and passion for storytelling. Despite her mother's reservations about Frank's unconventional career, Maud is captivated by his charm and vision. Their romance blossoms, and Maud finds herself torn between her mother's expectations and her own desires. This pivotal moment sets the stage for Maud's future, as she chooses love and adventure over societal norms.
Maud's Journey from Stage to Motherhood
After marrying Frank, Maud joins him on the road with his theater company. Their life is filled with excitement and challenges, but the arrival of their first child prompts a shift in priorities. Maud embraces motherhood, and the couple settles into a more stable life. Despite the end of their theatrical adventures, Maud remains supportive of Frank's dreams. Her journey from the stage to family life reflects her adaptability and resilience, qualities that continue to guide her as she navigates the complexities of Hollywood and her mission to protect Dorothy.
Hollywood's Illusions and Realities
As filming progresses, Maud becomes increasingly aware of the pressures and illusions of Hollywood. She witnesses the challenges Judy faces and the compromises made in the adaptation process. Maud's determination to protect Dorothy is tested, but her encounters with the cast and crew reinforce her commitment. She realizes that while she cannot control everything, her influence and insights can still make a difference. Maud's journey in Hollywood is a testament to her enduring spirit and dedication to preserving the magic of Oz for future generations.
Maud's Healing and Family Struggles
After a difficult recovery from illness, Maud returns home to find her children have grown distant. Her husband, Frank, is supportive but their intimacy is strained due to medical advice against further pregnancies. Frank proposes a move to Dakota for a fresh start, which Maud hesitantly agrees to, hoping for a new beginning despite the uncertainties.
Hollywood's Challenges and Judy's Trials
On the set of "The Wizard of Oz," Judy Garland faces immense pressure, leading to a breakdown during filming. Maud witnesses Judy's vulnerability and steps in to protect her, confronting director Victor Fleming after he slaps Judy. Maud's intervention highlights the harsh realities of Hollywood and her determination to shield Judy from further harm.
Maud's Advocacy and Studio Politics
Maud's advocacy for Judy Garland extends beyond the set as she confronts studio executives about the treatment of the young actress. She also battles to preserve the essence of Frank's story in the film adaptation, navigating the complex studio politics and power dynamics to ensure the film remains true to its source material.
The Rainbow Song's Fate
The studio considers cutting "Over the Rainbow" from the film, but Maud, along with the creative team, argues for its importance. They believe the song captures the heart of the story and Judy's performance is pivotal. Maud's persistence pays off as she convinces Louis B. Mayer to keep the song, ensuring the film's emotional core remains intact.
The Premiere and Maud's Reflections
At the premiere of "The Wizard of Oz," Maud is filled with nostalgia and pride. She reflects on her life's journey, her advocacy for Judy, and the fulfillment of Frank's legacy. The film's success and Judy's performance affirm Maud's efforts, leaving her hopeful for the future and content with her role in preserving the magic of Oz.
Characters
Maud Gage Baum
Maud is the widow of L. Frank Baum and the daughter of a prominent suffragist. Her life is shaped by her mother's activism and her own experiences as a woman navigating societal expectations. Maud is fiercely determined to ensure the film adaptation of "The Wonderful Wizard of Oz" remains true to her husband's vision. Her encounters with Judy Garland and the Hollywood studio system reveal her deep empathy and resilience. Maud's journey is one of self-discovery and advocacy, as she balances her personal history with her mission to protect Dorothy.
Frank Baum
Frank is a charismatic theater man with a passion for storytelling. His creativity and charm captivate Maud, leading to their marriage and shared adventures in the theater world. Despite the challenges they face, Frank's optimism and imagination remain a guiding force in their lives. His legacy as the author of "The Wonderful Wizard of Oz" is central to Maud's mission in Hollywood, and his influence is felt throughout her journey to protect Dorothy's story.
Judy Garland
Judy is the young actress cast as Dorothy in the film adaptation of "The Wonderful Wizard of Oz." Her talent and eagerness to please are evident, but she faces immense pressure from the studio and her demanding mother. Maud sees parallels between Judy and Dorothy, both needing protection and guidance. Judy's vulnerability and resilience endear her to Maud, who becomes a maternal figure and advocate for the young actress.
Matilda Joslyn Gage
Matilda is a prominent suffragist whose activism shapes Maud's upbringing. Her teachings on persistence and justice influence Maud's determination to protect Dorothy's legacy. Matilda's expectations for Maud's education and independence create tension, but her unwavering support ultimately empowers Maud to pursue her own path. Matilda's legacy is a guiding force in Maud's life, informing her understanding of courage and advocacy.
Louis B. Mayer
Mayer is the head of M-G-M Studios, overseeing the film adaptation of "The Wonderful Wizard of Oz." His dismissive attitude toward Maud's insights reflects the challenges she faces in Hollywood. Despite his authority, Maud remains determined to influence the film's direction. Mayer's interactions with Maud highlight the power dynamics and pressures within the studio system, underscoring Maud's resilience and advocacy.
Ray Bolger
Bolger is cast as the Scarecrow in the film adaptation. His charm and humor make him a natural fit for the role, and Maud sees him as a potential ally in protecting Judy. Bolger's dedication to his character and his genuine kindness endear him to Maud, who hopes he will look out for Judy on set. His presence reinforces the importance of camaraderie and support within the cast.
Noel Langley
Langley is one of the scriptwriters for the film adaptation. His interactions with Maud reveal the challenges of adapting a beloved story for the screen. Despite his initial reluctance to share the script, Langley's openness to Maud's insights suggests a potential ally in her mission. His role highlights the complexities of storytelling and the balance between creative vision and studio pressures.
Ethel Gumm
Ethel is Judy's mother, whose strict oversight and high expectations add to the young actress's pressures. Her presence on set underscores the challenges Judy faces, both personally and professionally. Ethel's interactions with Maud reveal the complexities of mother-daughter relationships and the impact of parental influence on a child's career.
Jack Haley
Haley replaces Buddy Ebsen as the Tin Man in the film adaptation. His friendly demeanor and humor make him a likable presence on set. Maud's interactions with Haley highlight the camaraderie among the cast and the challenges of working within the constraints of Hollywood's demands. His role emphasizes the importance of teamwork and support in bringing the story to life.
Mervyn LeRoy
LeRoy is the producer overseeing the film adaptation of "The Wonderful Wizard of Oz." His enthusiasm for the project and commitment to its success are evident in his interactions with Maud. Despite the challenges of adapting a beloved story, LeRoy's vision and dedication inspire confidence in the film's potential. His role underscores the collaborative nature of filmmaking and the importance of creative leadership.
Plot Devices
Hollywood's Enchanted Kingdom
The M-G-M Studios serve as a metaphorical enchanted kingdom, mirroring the magical world of Oz. This setting highlights the contrast between the fantasy of filmmaking and the realities of Hollywood's pressures. The studio's bustling creativity and illusionary nature underscore Maud's mission to protect Dorothy's story, emphasizing the tension between artistic vision and commercial demands.
Maternal Instincts and Advocacy
Maud's interactions with Judy Garland reveal her maternal instincts and advocacy for the young actress. This plot device underscores the parallels between Judy and Dorothy, both needing guidance and protection. Maud's role as a maternal figure highlights the importance of empathy and support in navigating the challenges of Hollywood, reinforcing her mission to preserve the spirit of Dorothy's character.
Societal Expectations and Personal Growth
Maud's experiences at Cornell and her upbringing by a suffragist mother highlight the tension between societal expectations and personal growth. This plot device explores themes of independence, identity, and the pursuit of one's passions. Maud's journey reflects the challenges of balancing tradition and progress, informing her understanding of Dorothy's journey in Oz and her own mission in Hollywood.
Theatrical Romance and Adventure
The romance between Maud and Frank Baum serves as a central plot device, highlighting themes of love, adventure, and creativity. Their shared passion for storytelling and theater underscores the importance of following one's heart and dreams. This device emphasizes the transformative power of love and the impact of personal relationships on Maud's journey to protect Dorothy's legacy.
Illusions and Realities of Hollywood
The film adaptation process serves as a plot device to explore the illusions and realities of Hollywood. Maud's encounters with the studio system, cast, and crew reveal the complexities of storytelling and the balance between creative vision and commercial pressures. This device underscores the challenges of preserving the magic of Oz while navigating the demands of filmmaking, reinforcing Maud's determination to protect Dorothy's story.
The Rainbow Song
The song "Over the Rainbow" serves as a central plot device, symbolizing hope and perseverance. Its inclusion in the film is a testament to Maud's advocacy and the emotional core of the story. The song's journey from potential cut to iconic status highlights the power of belief and the impact of creative expression.
Analysis
"Finding Dorothy" by Elizabeth Letts is a poignant exploration of advocacy, legacy, and the power of storytelling. Through Maud Gage Baum's journey, the novel delves into themes of resilience, maternal instincts, and the struggle to preserve artistic integrity amidst commercial pressures. Maud's determination to protect the essence of "The Wonderful Wizard of Oz" and her advocacy for Judy Garland highlight the importance of empathy and support in a world driven by profit and power. The novel also reflects on societal expectations and personal growth, as Maud navigates her own identity and the legacy of her suffragist mother. Ultimately, "Finding Dorothy" is a tribute to the enduring magic of Oz and the transformative power of love, creativity, and perseverance.
Last updated:
FAQ
Synopsis & Basic Details
What is Finding Dorothy about?
- Historical fiction blend: The novel intertwines the real-life story of Maud Gage Baum, widow of L. Frank Baum, with the fictionalized production of the 1939 film "The Wizard of Oz."
- Maud's Hollywood mission: It centers on Maud's efforts to influence the film adaptation, ensuring it remains true to her late husband's vision and protecting the young actress, Judy Garland, playing Dorothy.
- Exploration of themes: The story explores themes of legacy, artistic integrity, the power of imagination, and the challenges faced by women in both the late 19th and mid-20th centuries.
Why should I read Finding Dorothy?
- Behind-the-scenes Hollywood: Offers a fascinating glimpse into the Golden Age of Hollywood and the making of a cinematic classic, "The Wizard of Oz."
- Strong female characters: Features compelling female characters, including Maud Gage Baum, Judy Garland, and Matilda Joslyn Gage, each navigating societal expectations and pursuing their passions.
- Exploration of timeless themes: Explores universal themes of love, loss, legacy, and the importance of staying true to one's vision, making it a relevant and thought-provoking read.
What is the background of Finding Dorothy?
- Historical context: The novel is set against the backdrop of the late 1930s, a time of economic hardship and social change in America, adding depth to the characters' motivations and struggles.
- Literary legacy: It draws upon the rich literary legacy of L. Frank Baum's "Oz" books and the cultural impact of the 1939 film adaptation, creating a layered and engaging narrative.
- Feminist history: The story incorporates elements of the women's suffrage movement and the challenges faced by women in pursuing their ambitions, reflecting the historical context of Matilda Joslyn Gage's activism.
What are the most memorable quotes in Finding Dorothy?
- Maud's mission statement: "I'm here to look after Dorothy." This quote encapsulates Maud's primary motivation and her sense of responsibility to protect the spirit of the story and the character.
- Mayer's dismissive attitude: "So, you have opinions about how the movie should be? Well, take a ticket and stand in line." This quote highlights the power dynamics within the studio system and the challenges Maud faces in making her voice heard.
- Maud on Oz's significance: "To many people, Oz is a real place….And not just a real place—a better place. One that is distant from the cares of this world." This quote reveals the deeper meaning and emotional resonance of the Oz stories for readers, emphasizing their importance as a source of hope and escape.
What writing style, narrative choices, and literary techniques does Elizabeth Letts use?
- Dual narrative: Letts employs a dual narrative structure, alternating between Maud's present-day experiences in Hollywood and flashbacks to her earlier life, creating a rich and layered story.
- Vivid imagery: The author uses vivid imagery and descriptive language to bring the settings and characters to life, immersing the reader in both the Golden Age of Hollywood and the historical landscapes of Maud's past.
- Character-driven storytelling: The novel is character-driven, focusing on the inner lives and motivations of Maud, Judy Garland, and other key figures, creating a deeply personal and emotionally resonant narrative.
Hidden Details & Subtle Connections
What are some minor details that add significant meaning?
- The emerald ring: Maud's emerald ring, worn on her fourth finger, subtly symbolizes her connection to Oz and her enduring love for Frank, serving as a constant reminder of her mission.
- The name "Dorothy": The significance of the name "Dorothy" is subtly explored, connecting Maud's niece, Dorothy Gage, to the iconic character and highlighting the personal resonance of the story for Maud.
- The scarecrow's presence: The recurring image of the scarecrow, both in Maud's childhood memories and on the M-G-M set, symbolizes the power of imagination and the importance of confronting one's fears.
What are some subtle foreshadowing and callbacks?
- The Rainbow Song reference: Frank's scribbled lines about a rainbow foreshadow the iconic song "Over the Rainbow" and its central role in the film, creating a subtle connection between Frank's creative vision and the film's enduring legacy.
- The Society of the Broom: The mention of the Society of the Broom foreshadows Maud's own act of rebellion and her determination to challenge societal norms, echoing her mother's suffragist activism.
- The cat's-eye marble: The cat's-eye marble from Maud's childhood reappears as a symbol of resilience and the importance of holding onto one's values, connecting her past experiences to her present-day challenges in Hollywood.
What are some unexpected character connections?
- Teddy Swain and Philip Marvel: The revelation that Teddy Swain is related to Philip Marvel, Maud's childhood tormentor, creates an unexpected connection between her past and present, highlighting the enduring impact of childhood experiences.
- Josie Baum and Frank Baum: The familial connection between Josie Baum and Frank Baum, as cousins, underscores the close-knit nature of their community and the role of family in shaping their lives.
- Maud and Yip Harburg: The shared connection of Maud and Yip Harburg through Matilda Joslyn Gage and her feminist ideals creates an unexpected alliance and highlights the enduring influence of the suffrage movement.
Who are the most significant supporting characters?
- Josie Baum: Josie serves as Maud's confidante and friend, providing support and guidance as Maud navigates the challenges of college and her burgeoning romance with Frank.
- Ida Koverman: As Louis B. Mayer's secretary, Ida offers Maud an insider's perspective on the studio system and provides unexpected support in protecting Judy Garland and the integrity of the film.
- Yip Harburg: The lyricist Yip Harburg becomes an unlikely ally for Maud, sharing her passion for the story and her commitment to its emotional core, ultimately helping to preserve the essence of "The Wonderful Wizard of Oz."
Psychological, Emotional, & Relational Analysis
What are some unspoken motivations of the characters?
- Maud's desire for legacy: Beyond simply honoring Frank's work, Maud seeks to solidify his legacy and ensure that his stories continue to inspire future generations, driven by a deep sense of love and loyalty.
- Judy's yearning for stability: Beneath her professional facade, Judy craves stability and acceptance, seeking a surrogate father figure in the older men around her due to the loss of her own father.
- Mayer's need for control: Mayer's dismissive attitude and controlling behavior stem from a deep-seated need to maintain power and authority within the studio system, reflecting his own insecurities and ambition.
What psychological complexities do the characters exhibit?
- Maud's internal conflict: Maud grapples with the tension between her desire to honor her mother's feminist ideals and her own longing for love and companionship, reflecting the complexities of female identity in a changing world.
- Judy's vulnerability and resilience: Judy exhibits a complex mix of vulnerability and resilience, struggling with the pressures of fame while maintaining a childlike innocence and a deep-seated desire for connection.
- Frank's creative restlessness: Frank's artistic spirit and restless nature often clash with the practical demands of everyday life, leading to internal conflict and a constant search for meaning and fulfillment.
What are the major emotional turning points?
- Maud's realization of Judy's vulnerability: Maud's lunch with Judy in the commissary marks a turning point, as she recognizes the young actress's vulnerability and feels a renewed sense of responsibility to protect her.
- Maud's discovery of the secondhand jacket: The discovery of the secondhand jacket with Frank's name tag triggers a wave of nostalgia and a renewed commitment to honoring his legacy, solidifying her resolve to influence the film adaptation.
- Maud's decision to trust Frank's vision: Maud's decision to trust Frank's artistic vision, despite her own reservations, marks a significant emotional turning point, demonstrating her deep love and unwavering support for her husband.
How do relationship dynamics evolve?
- Maud and Judy's bond: The relationship between Maud and Judy evolves from a professional connection to a maternal bond, as Maud becomes a confidante and protector for the young actress, offering guidance and support in a challenging environment.
- Maud and Frank's partnership: The dynamic between Maud and Frank shifts from a theatrical romance to a more grounded partnership, as they navigate the challenges of family life and support each other's dreams, demonstrating the enduring power of love and commitment.
- Maud and Matilda's complex relationship: The relationship between Maud and Matilda evolves from a daughter's deference to a more nuanced understanding, as Maud recognizes her mother's strengths and limitations, ultimately forging her own path while honoring her mother's legacy.
Interpretation & Debate
Which parts of the story remain ambiguous or open-ended?
- The true origin of the jacket: The authenticity of the secondhand jacket remains ambiguous, leaving the reader to question whether it was a genuine artifact or a carefully orchestrated publicity stunt, blurring the lines between reality and illusion.
- The extent of Arthur Freed's misconduct: The extent of Arthur Freed's misconduct toward Judy Garland remains open to interpretation, leaving the reader to grapple with the complexities of power dynamics and exploitation in Hollywood.
- The ultimate impact of Maud's efforts: The long-term impact of Maud's efforts on the film's final cut remains somewhat ambiguous, leaving the reader to consider the limitations of individual influence within a large-scale production.
What are some debatable, controversial scenes or moments in Finding Dorothy?
- Fleming's physical abuse of Judy: The scene in which Victor Fleming slaps Judy Garland is a controversial moment, raising questions about the ethics of physical discipline and the power dynamics on set.
- Maud's initial skepticism towards Judy: Maud's initial skepticism towards Judy's casting as Dorothy is a debatable point, prompting readers to consider the complexities of adapting a beloved character and the challenges of finding the right performer.
- Maud's decision to withhold information from Frank: Maud's decision to withhold information from Frank about her health and her fears for the future raises questions about the ethics of deception and the balance between protecting loved ones and being honest with them.
Finding Dorothy Ending Explained: How It Ends & What It Means
- Maud's legacy of care: The ending emphasizes Maud's enduring legacy of care and compassion, as she reflects on her efforts to protect Judy Garland and honor Frank Baum's vision, highlighting the importance of empathy and advocacy.
- The power of storytelling: The film's success and enduring popularity affirm the power of storytelling to inspire hope and imagination, validating Frank's creative vision and Maud's commitment to preserving his legacy.
- Finding meaning in the journey: The ending suggests that the true meaning of life lies not in achieving specific goals but in embracing the journey, cherishing relationships, and finding purpose in one's actions, reflecting Maud's personal growth and acceptance.
Review Summary
Finding Dorothy tells the story behind The Wizard of Oz through the eyes of L. Frank Baum's wife, Maud. Alternating between Maud's early life and the 1939 film production, the novel explores the inspirations for the book and Maud's efforts to protect Judy Garland on set. Readers found the Hollywood sections particularly engaging, praising Letts' research and storytelling. While some felt parts dragged, most appreciated the insights into the beloved story's origins. Many reviewers noted feeling nostalgic and enchanted by this blend of fact and fiction.
Similar Books
Download PDF
Download EPUB
.epub digital book format is ideal for reading ebooks on phones, tablets, and e-readers.
