Jews, God, and History by Max I. Dimont
This book shows the history of the Jews in context of the greater world. The Jews developed a strong culture, but never developed a lasting civilization. This may be part of the reason why they have survived so long. They have been able to live in many civilizations and take active roles. There were backgrounds in Jewish sects that would later be the roots of Christianity. Similar Jewish influences can be found in Islam. The religion has changed and adapted with the times, while keeping many constants and a strong affinity.
The Wizard of Oz is best known as the 1939 film. Before that, it was a popular 1900 children's book that spawned multiple sequels. The author wanted to write children's books that were not so extreme as the other popular children's tales he did not like. The movie appears to be a fairly faithful adaptation of the book. (There are some minor changes, such as slippers being changed from silver to ruby.) In the story, a storm carries Dorothy off to the land of munchkins. (These term seems to have been coined here.) The house kills the wicked witch, making Dorothy a hero. She meets up with the scarecrow, tin man and lion. All of them have struggles. They seek the Wizard of Oz to help them. he leads them on another quest. They later destroy another wicked witch, only to find the Wizard is a charlatan from Nebraska. However, in the process, they have actually gained the characteristics they wanted (aside from getting home.) He makes it home, and then after another adventure, she makes it home. There are some parts with the trees and monkeys near the end that seem to drag on a bit, but it is an entertaining tale.