Ruth Plumly Thompson

Timeline

Lifetime: 1891 - 1976 Passed: ≈ 48 years ago

Title

American Writer

Country/Nationality

United States
Wikipedia

Ruth Plumly Thompson

Ruth Plumly Thompson was an American author known for her contributions to children's literature. Born on July 27, 1891, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Thompson gained recognition as the second official author of the popular "Oz" series following the death of L. Frank Baum, the series' original creator.

Thompson's principles as a writer were rooted in imagination, creativity, and a deep understanding of the magical world of Oz. She believed in the power of storytelling to captivate young minds and transport them to fantastical realms filled with adventure and wonder. Thompson was dedicated to continuing Baum's legacy and maintaining the spirit of the "Oz" series, ensuring that readers could continue to explore the enchanting land of Oz through her imaginative tales.

Ruth Plumly Thompson became famous for her extensive contributions to the "Oz" series, writing a total of nineteen books set in the magical world. Her works, such as "The Gnome King of Oz" and "The Lost King of Oz," expanded the Oz universe, introducing new characters, adventures, and places for readers to explore. Thompson's storytelling skills and her ability to capture the essence of Baum's original vision made her a beloved and respected figure among fans of the series.

In terms of philosophy, Thompson believed in the enduring power of imagination and the importance of maintaining a childlike sense of wonder. Through her stories, she aimed to ignite the imaginations of young readers, encouraging them to embrace their creativity and explore the limitless possibilities of their minds.

Ruth Plumly Thompson passed away on April 6, 1976, leaving behind a rich literary legacy. She is remembered as a talented author who skillfully continued the "Oz" series, bringing joy and excitement to countless children and adults alike. Her contributions to children's literature have solidified her place as a prominent figure in the world of fantasy and imagination.

A fun fact about Ruth Plumly Thompson is that she wrote a weekly column for the Philadelphia Public Ledger for over twenty years under the pseudonym "Phyllis Pennypacker." This column allowed her to engage with readers and share her insights and stories, further showcasing her writing talent and connection with her audience.

In conclusion, Ruth Plumly Thompson was a prolific author who left an indelible mark on children's literature through her imaginative contributions to the "Oz" series. Her dedication to storytelling, her adherence to Baum's original vision, and her belief in the power of imagination have made her a cherished figure in the world of fantasy literature.

Books by Ruth Plumly Thompson

The Hungry Tiger of Oz Cover image

The Hungry Tiger of Oz

Fairy Tale
Adventure Children's Literature Imaginative Friendship Humorous Fiction Fantasy Magical

It is an enchanting children's book that takes young readers on a delightful adventure in the magical land of Oz. This book is a part of the beloved "Oz" series, which continues the whimsical tales originally created by L. Frank Baum. Set in the capt...

Handy Mandy in Oz Cover image

Handy Mandy in Oz

Fiction Novel
Children Adventure Travel Challenges Legend Myths Childhood Obstacles Magical

Mandy, a young girl with seven hands, is whisked away to the magical land of Oz. Mandy is a young girl who loves to build things. She has seven hands, which makes her very handy indeed. One day, Mandy is playing in the woods when she sees a strange...

The Wishing Horse of Oz Cover image

The Wishing Horse of Oz

Fantasy Fiction
Adventure Children's Literature Thriller Magic Children Fiction Talking Animals

Embark on a whimsical journey through the magical lands of Oz with "The Wishing Horse of Oz" by Ruth Plumly Thompson. In this enchanting tale, a captivating adventure unfolds as a wondrous and mysterious horse arrives in the Emerald City, capable of...

The Silver Princess in Oz Cover image

The Silver Princess in Oz

Fairy Tale
Escape Children Courage Friendship Planets Myths Childhood Legends Fantasy

What happens when a silver princess from another planet crash-lands in Oz? The Silver Princess in Oz by Ruth Plumly Thompson is a classic children's fantasy novel that tells the story of Princess Planetty, a silver princess from another planet who c...

Royal Book of Oz Cover image

Royal Book of Oz

When the professor decides to outline the ancestry of the eminent people of Oz, Scarecrow feels left out. He doesn't have a family tree - unless you count the bean pole on which he had been placed when the farmer put him in the cornfield! So he decid...

Kabumpo in Oz Cover image

Kabumpo in Oz

Dear children: Do you like Elephants? Do you believe in Giants? And do you love all the jolly people of the Wonderful Land of Oz? Well then you'll want to hear about the latest happenings in that delightful Kingdom. All are set forth in true Oz fashi...

Ozoplaning with the Wizard of Oz Cover image

Ozoplaning with the Wizard of Oz

The Wizard of Oz has built two beautiful "Ozoplanes" to explore Oz. But the official launch party goes wrong when the Soldier with the Green Whiskers accidentally launches the Oztober into the cloud country of Stratovania! The ruler, Strut of the Str...

Captain Salt in Oz Cover image

Captain Salt in Oz

A voyage on the famous Nonestic Ocean! What could be more thrilling than that? We—many of us—have taken trips on the prosaic Atlantic or even Pacific, but have we found a SEA FOREST with flying fish and swimming birds? Have we been pursued by a real...

Cowardly Lion of Oz Cover image

Cowardly Lion of Oz

Mustafa of Mudge has heard of the famous Cowardly Lion of Oz, and decides to capture him and put him into a zoo! He enlists the help of Bob Up and a clown called Notta Bit More - the master of disguise! The Cowardly Lion meanwhile travels though Oz a...

Grampa In Oz Cover image

Grampa In Oz

Another great book in the world of Oz, in which King Fumbo of Ragbad loses his head in a storm and Prince Tatters, accompanied by the wise and wonderful old soldier Grampa, sets off to find the king's head, a fortune, and a princess. With Bill, a li...

Ozoplaning with the Wizard of Oz Cover image

Ozoplaning with the Wizard of Oz

The wonderful but quirky Wizard of Oz has invented a plane to go strato-sphering. Zooming among the clouds and shooting stars above OZ certainly produces a host of strange adventures. This last book about OZ by Ruth Thompson includes many well know...

Lost King of Oz Cover image

Lost King of Oz

"Princess Ozma has ruled so wisely and happily in the wonderful Land of Oz for so long that most of us have forgotten the strange story of the Lost King of Oz—Ozma's father. As everyone in Oz knows, the King was transformed from his royal self by...

Gnome King of Oz Cover image

Gnome King of Oz

The Gnome King has escaped from Runaway Island and Scraps, the Patchwork Girl has disappeared from the Emerald City. Oh dear!! What exciting things are going on now in that magical land of OZ? This book continues the story of OZ and it's amazing in...