Ruth Plumly Thompson had the tough job of continuing L. Frank Baum's beloved Oz series, and with 'Kabumpo in Oz', she proves she was more than up to the task. She brings her own brand of playful, pun-filled chaos to the Emerald City and beyond, creating a story that feels both familiar and excitingly new.

The Story

In the tiny kingdom of Pumperdink, young Prince Pompadore is living a carefree life until a magical scroll appears. It declares that he must marry a 'Princess of Pumperdink' within seven days, or his whole kingdom will simply cease to exist. The only problem? No one has ever heard of such a princess! Panicked, Pompa does the only sensible thing: he hops on the back of his friend Kabumpo, a large, grumpy, but ultimately loyal wooden elephant, and they set off across Oz on a desperate search. Their journey is anything but straightforward. They encounter a valley of living candlesticks and spoons, get mixed up with a forgetful giant named Grumpy, and even have a run-in with the famous Scarecrow and Tin Woodman. It's a whirlwind tour of Oz's oddest corners, all while the clock is ticking down to disaster.

Why You Should Read It

What makes this book so special is the friendship at its center. Pompadore starts off as a bit of a brat, and Kabumpo is a pompous know-it-all. Thrown together on this crazy quest, they bicker, they get into scrapes, and they slowly become a real team. Thompson's humor is sharp and silly—she finds the funny in every magical predicament. The book isn't trying to be profound; it's trying to be delightful, and it succeeds completely. It captures that pure, uncomplicated joy of adventure for adventure's sake, where the next page could contain absolutely anything.

Final Verdict

This is the perfect book for anyone who misses the feeling of being read to as a kid, full of wide-eyed wonder and giggles. It's a fantastic entry point for readers new to Oz beyond the first book, showcasing the series' endless capacity for invention. Long-time Oz fans will appreciate how Thompson honors Baum's world while confidently stamping it with her own unique voice. Grab this book if you're in the mood for a fast-paced, funny, and genuinely charming escape. Just be prepared to wish for your own elegant elephant pal by the end.