With the dazzling spectacle of Wicked now on the big screen, you may have recently seen the movie and are looking to dive deeper into the magical world of Oz. But Wicked is more than just a story of friendship, love, and defiance—it’s rooted in the rich legacy of L. Frank Baum’s original The Wonderful Wizard of Oz. Baum’s classic novel, published in 1900, was more than a children’s tale; it offered a sly commentary on the Populist and Progressive movements that swept through late 19th-century America. The Yellow Brick Road, silver shoes (changed to ruby for the film), and the Emerald City have all been interpreted as symbols of the economic and political struggles of the era.

Whether you’re enchanted by the untold stories of Oz or curious to explore similar narratives of friendship, rebellion, and deeper meanings, this list of 10 must-read or must-watch titles will keep the magic alive long after the credits roll.