L. FRANK BAUM

An impressively researched account of Baum's variegated career as writer, actor, impresario, filmmaker, and devoted family man, whose health and finances were both often precarious. Many amusing or telling anecdotes give a strong sense of the man's personality; Carpenter also includes plot summaries of most of his books and a fascinating afterword on ``Oz and the Censors.'' Exceptionally well illustrated, with b&w photos, drawings, or maps on nearly every page. Some cavils: parts of the book are almost too detailed (e.g., an entire chapter is devoted to the itinerary of a five-month vacation); and one might wish that some of the illustrations had been enlarged. Still, highly recommended for any collection whose young readers need to know not just ``something'' but quite a lot about this author. Bibliographies; index. (Biography. 9+)