In 2005, The Baum Family Trust began to publish Oz stories with a trilogy of new titles by Sherwood Smith. Unfortunately only two of the titles were published at the time, The Emerald Wand of Oz and Trouble Under Oz, leaving the series in limbo. This year, the final title has finally found its way into print courtesy of Pumpernickel Pickle press.
The first two books were illustrated by William Stout, and in August atWinkie Con I met Mr Stout. We chatted a bit about John R. Neill's artwork, and I purchased a drawing done as a rough for the cover of the second book, published in 2006. As Mr. Stout is a fan of Oz, and the artwork of John R. Neill, it's not surprising that this image of the Nome King feels very Ozzy!
The new title, illustrated by Kim McFarland, is Sky Pyrates Over Oz. It can be purchased here through Lulu.com.
Great image. The cover of "Trouble" was much more enticing than "Emerald Wand." Really enjoyed hearing from him and Sherwood Smith at the convention.
ReplyDeleteThe character is very much based on John R. Neill's cover for The Gnome King of Oz, by Ruth Plumly Thompson - it's a fun homage!
ReplyDeleteI love that drawing! I admired it every time I went into the Dealers Room at WinkieCon. You're lucky to have it, Bill.
ReplyDeleteThanks! The finished, full color cover art was also available, but this was easier on the finances...
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