We’re not in Kansas anymore: The Wizard of Oz as a Spiritual Adventure on Susan Rich Talks

It’s one of the most-loved, most-watched movies of all time.

If you’ve seen the Wizard of Oz – or read the book by L. Frank Baum – you’ve likely heard reference to it several times a day, notes Nathan G. Castle, O.P., author of And Toto Too: the Wizard of Oz as a Spiritual Adventure. First published in 1900, the Wizard of Oz was made into a movie in 1938 and has been part of our pop culture ever since.

Father Nathan was a guest on Susan Rich Talks, and he, along with Susan Rich and co-host Barbara Saunders, discussed how language shaped the story, and why the simplicity of this children’s tale has resonated for so many years.

The magnitude of Dorothy’s journey, the characters she meets, the trials she overcomes, is a classic hero story. It’s also a tale that Father Nathan believes has strong roots in Judeo-Christian teachings, and its themes are also reflected in other world religions. After years of study (and collecting amazing memorabilia), his recently published book presents Dorothy as “every man” and Toto as a manifestation of God’s love, thus giving readers a new way to connect with a classic story.

Although Father Nathan is a Dominican priest, the book is aimed both at religious scholars and people just embarking on a spiritual journey. It’s a quick, gentle read and appropriate for questing adults or families with young children.

Will laugh for hot fudge sundaes

Earlier in the show, Susan and Barbara got the giggles over news of the weird.  Friday Potpourri is all about ending the week on a lighthearted note, so talking about the basset hound that gobbled a $4,500 diamond ring or apples raining from the sky in England, added some spice to the mix.

Tune in next week!

Susan Rich Talks…Potpourri airs 11 am ET every Friday on w4wn.com, the All Women’s Radio Network. Learn about upcoming guests here.