Wizard of Oz Inspiration, Recipe, & Book Giveaway! (Investigating Food Used in Novels)

Wizard of Oz Inspiration, Recipe, & Book Giveaway! (Investigating Food Used in Novels)
Saturday, February 28, 2026 by Sally Jo Pitts

Categories: Books & Food / Recommended Books

Investigating Food Used in Novels

This month’s food scene and recipe come from Laura DeNooyer’s novel, A Hundred Magical Reasons. (Laura is offering a free copy to a commenter. Read on for details.)

As a childhood friend of author L. Frank Baum in the early 1900s and the former Broderick Inn Tea Room’s long-time proprietor, Mrs. Gordon concocted dozens of Oz-inspired recipes based on The Wizard of Oz characters.

Here’s the scene:

Mrs. Gordon was in the kitchen. Teakettle steam rose to a tin ceiling. Cheerful mugs hung from a shelf lined with plates of fairy tale scenes. Folktale figures splashed the tile mural over the stove. The hutch featured Kate Greenaway glassware and pottery. Above the dinette hung a Tenniel illustration of The Mad Hatter’s Tea Party.

Carrie reveled in the whimsy. “I love this kitchen!”

“No dillydallying.” Mrs. Gordon pulled a wooden box from the cupboard. “Find Elsa Broderick’s Blueberry Cream Cheese Muffin recipe. Also known as Munchkin Delights.”

“Munchkin Delights?”

“The tearoom specialized in baked goods and desserts. Muffins came in two sizes, regular and Munchkin.”

Carrie laughed. “Was that on the menu?”

“Since 1956, when The Wizard of Oz entered public domain. With permission, I also served Jack Pumpkinhead Bars, Bunbury Popovers, Rigmaroles, and Cayke’s Magic Dishpan Cookies inspired by Baum’s other Oz books.”

“Anything named for Dorothy?”

“Home Sweet Home Chicken and Dumplings.”

“Creative menu.” How’d this cantankerous woman contrive such playful names?

Mrs. Gordon squinted at her. “Did you change into a dress?”

Carrie flushed. “Um, yeah. It’s so hot out.” She was bursting to talk about the meeting and could learn much from the woman. But no. She’d have to confess her college failure, inviting criticism. Mrs. Gordon wasn’t safe yet.

“I can’t sit idle while the café passes off insipid dustballs for genuine Broderick baked goods. Today you’ll experience authentic tearoom muffins.”

Laura uses this scene to introduce the first Ozzy recipe Carrie and Mrs. Gordon bake together.

Blueberry Cream Cheese Munchkin Delights

For the recipe click here.

More about A Hundred Magical Reasons:

Most fairy tales have happy endings, but is it too late for this one? After all, Mrs. Charlotte Rose Gordon is eighty-eight.

This disgruntled town recluse has grown weary of fighting the dragons of her past—including the desire to clear her husband’s name of a 1918 crime.

Dragons of a different kind pursue Carrie Kruisselbrink. In 1980, during the summer of her private rebellion, Carrie defies parental expectations and pursues her café dream. While waiting for funding, she takes a job with Mrs. Gordon.

As Mrs. Gordon unfolds the story of her oppressive childhood and delightful friendship with The Wonderful Wizard of Oz author, L. Frank Baum, Carrie never expects to encounter her own fears and soul-searching.

In this modern-day fairy tale that weaves between 1980 and the early 1900s, Mr. Baum’s influence impacts each woman’s personal quests on a hero’s journey neither anticipates. Can Carrie and Mrs. Gordon find common ground in battling their respective dragons?

Book Giveaway Offer! Good through March 7, 2026-

For a chance to win a free ebook or paperback of A Hundred Magical Reasons, please comment and tell me your favorite character in The Wizard of Oz—and whether you’ve read the book and/or seen the movie.

Author Bio:

Laura DeNooyer thrives on creativity and encouraging it in others. A Calvin College graduate, she is a teacher, wife, parent of four adult children, and an award-winning author of heart-warming historical and contemporary fiction. Her novels are perfect for fans of Patti Callahan Henry, Erin Bartels, or Amanda Cox. When she’s not writing, you’ll find her reading, walking, drinking tea with friends, or taking a road trip. Learn more on her website, lauradenooyer-author.com. Sign up for Laura’s monthly newsletter for updates, reviews, freebies, a free prequel, and 7 free recipes: A-Taste-Of-Oz-Cookbook-Sampler.com.

Book trailer: https://youtu.be/382TaHAB_b4

Comments

Aha From Hamilton, ON At 4/7/2026 4:50:13 PM

The film is so different from the original book. But I always like Glinda in the movie, her dress was so pretty. I went as Glinda for Hallowe'en one year. If you read the whole book series, you get introduced to more fabulous characters. Princess Ozma is my favourite.

Reply by: Sally Jo Pitts

Interesting. I have not read the whole series.

Debra Guyette From FL At 3/9/2026 10:34:41 AM

I like the lion. I can really relate to him

Reply by: Sally Jo Pitts

Great character. Thanks for stopping by.

Crystan Reed From Pennsylvania At 3/6/2026 5:25:00 PM

I read the Wizard of Oz in third grade and was immensely upset at how far the movie deviated from the book. My favorite character is the tinman. Probably because I played him in the high school musical. (Therw were only two guys willing to participate).

Reply by: Sally Jo Pitts

That is a special role and so great you were a willing actor!

Melissa Knight From TX At 3/5/2026 7:15:27 PM

Sounds intriguing! I was always freaked out by those flying monkeys.

Reply by: Sally Jo Pitts

So was my sister! Thanks for stopping by.

Valarie From Alabama At 3/3/2026 11:38:03 AM

I always loved the Scarecrow character. He was always so loyal to Dorothy. I've watched the movie almost every year since I was young and I'm 60 now. Lol. I have the book also. I just love the story.

Reply by: Sally Jo Pitts

It is a classic! Thanks for sharing.

Laura DeNOoyer From Wisconsin At 3/2/2026 10:30:53 PM

It’s fun to find out that so many people have read the Wizard of Oz book, not just watched the movie. Fun fact: L. Frank Baum actually wrote 14 Oz books! A lot of folks don’t know that.

Reply by: Sally Jo Pitts

That is definitely news to me! Your book and Baum's books have sparked a lot of interest. Thanks for popping in.

Christina KALINOWSKI From New York At 3/2/2026 7:14:23 PM

My favorite character is the lion. I saw the movie and a school play. In the school play the young man that played the lion did a phenomenal job, he was absolutely adorable, I feel in love with the lion during that play!

Reply by: Sally Jo Pitts

An adorable lion sounds mighty cute.

Meghan Buchman From NJ At 3/2/2026 5:48:18 PM

I'v read the book, watched the movie & love Glinda! It's her dress that I'm obsessed with!

Reply by: Sally Jo Pitts

She was lovely.

Grace Irelan From 210 Snake River Way, At 3/2/2026 5:24:59 PM

Loved The Tin Man.

Reply by: Sally Jo Pitts

Rust and all--he was a wonderful character.

Laura DeNooyer From Wisconsin At 3/2/2026 11:20:00 AM

When I was growing up, my siblings and I watched The Wizard of Oz on television every year. We also had a record album with all the music which I played repeatedly. I knew all the lyrics by heart!

Reply by: Sally Jo Pitts

It's interesting that you tapped into those memories by writing your own book.

Mya Goss From MA At 3/2/2026 10:09:04 AM

Toto, because DOGS! ?? I've watched the movie a million times, at least!

Reply by: Sally Jo Pitts

Tot is adorable.

Christi Chirpich From MN At 3/2/2026 8:23:28 AM

I love all of the characters, but my favorites are Dorothy and Toto. I have seen the movie many times. It is one of my favorites. Thank you for the opportunity to be entered in the giveaway. Blessings, Christi ??

Reply by: Sally Jo Pitts

Thanks for sharing.

Paula From Claremore, OK At 3/2/2026 7:44:34 AM

The Cheshire Cat is my favorite because he definitely makes you think. I've read the book and seen multiple film versions.

Reply by: Sally Jo Pitts

That sounds like Alice in Wonderland, but another popular fantasy world story. Thanks for sharing. That cat was a cunning character that stays with you.

Nancy G From Nicholasville, KY At 3/2/2026 1:58:10 AM

I have watched the movie many times. As a child it was a ritual to watch it with my great grandparents. I am 68 years old and I still watch the movie. My favorite character is the scarecrow. He was seeking a brain and he had one all along. He just suffered from low self-esteem.

Reply by: Sally Jo Pitts

The characters each had their own discoveries to make. Things we can relate to.

Leela From At 3/1/2026 11:36:16 PM

I don't have a favorite.

Reply by: Sally Jo Pitts

It is hard to choose among these great characters.

Betty Allan From Kansas At 3/1/2026 10:50:08 PM

My favorite character is Dorothy. I have seen the movie several times. I live in Kansas and always chuckle when Dorothy tells Toto they aren't in Kansas any more.

Reply by: Sally Jo Pitts

How fun. You can really relate!

Margaret Mitchell From Illinois At 3/1/2026 10:38:05 PM

I've seen the movie a lot of times and enjoy it every time. To win the book would be a great treat.

Reply by: Sally Jo Pitts

Thank you for stopping to comment!

Laura DeNooyer From Wisconsin At 3/1/2026 10:33:54 PM

It's so fun to see everybody's answers! So far, the favorites are the Lion and Toto, but everybody has good reasons for the character they picked. Over twice as many people have seen the movie as have read the book. My own favorites are the Scarecrow and Dorothy.

Reply by: Sally Jo Pitts

Hi, Laura. Good to have you check in and hear your favorites!

Judith Martinez From CO, USA At 3/1/2026 10:20:07 PM

I read the books as a child and remember really enjoying them. Of course, I've seen the movie. I've always loved the Tin Man.

Reply by: Sally Jo Pitts

He so wanted a heart. He'll surely be happy he was loved

Diana Hardt From California At 3/1/2026 10:17:06 PM

I think the Cowardly Lion because I could always use some courage sometimes.

Reply by: Sally Jo Pitts

Good choice.

Becky Lewis From SW MI At 3/1/2026 10:15:03 PM

I love the Scarecrow…????”If I only had a Brain..”????I have read the book, watched the movie more than a few times, and had a chance to see the traveling Broadway production. It was fabulous!!

Reply by: Sally Jo Pitts

That's great.

Shelia Hall From At 3/1/2026 9:25:23 PM

Recipe sounds yummy! My favorite was Tin Man . I have read the book and watched the movie many times

Reply by: Sally Jo Pitts

Great. Thanks for stopping by.

Tammy Pereira From California At 3/1/2026 9:24:30 PM

I love The Scarecrow! I’ve only seen the movie and haven’t read the book.

Reply by: Sally Jo Pitts

He was special.

JS From IA At 3/1/2026 9:08:57 PM

Toto. Have seen the movie and read the book.

Reply by: Sally Jo Pitts

Such a cute dog!

Barbara Diggs From Morristown, TN At 3/1/2026 9:01:06 PM

Oh, I did gain new insights. There was a depth that I never saw before. A lot of wisdom and truth by all the characters. It was fun to be transported back to Oz again. My husband and I both enjoyed it and even sang along. Fun time!

Reply by: Sally Jo Pitts

Fantastic!

Darla Ford From Pittsburgh Pa At 3/1/2026 8:47:50 PM

I used to watch the movie all the time when I was younger and I love the Good Witch ??

Reply by: Sally Jo Pitts

I remember thinking she was so pretty and so kind.

Miranda Summerset From GA At 3/1/2026 8:40:03 PM

I love little Toto tbh, he’s so cute!

Reply by: Sally Jo Pitts

Me too!

Denise Ridgley From Maryland At 3/1/2026 8:34:08 PM

I forgot to say my favorite characters were the munchkins. Maybe because my older brothers called me munchkin lol. But I loved to sing along with them.

Reply by: Sally Jo Pitts

Yes. The happy singing is fun.

MICHAEL LAW From IA At 3/1/2026 8:27:40 PM

My favorite is the Scarecrow. Brilliant acting by that guy. Thanks for the giveaway opportunity!

Reply by: Sally Jo Pitts

I agree. Amazing portrayal.

Cindy Merrill From Lebanon Maine At 3/1/2026 7:54:58 PM

The book cover really reminds me of my childhood, when I'd read outdoors under a tree.

Reply by: Sally Jo Pitts

Sounds like wonderful memories.

Anne-Marie From Massachusetts At 3/1/2026 7:49:21 PM

It has been sooooo long since I saw the movie that I really should rewatch it before I claim a favorite character. Was it the Tin Man who needed a heart? There are times when I could use a new heart and courage.

Reply by: Sally Jo Pitts

The Scarecrow needs a brain, the Tin Man desires a heart, the Cowardly Lion seeks courage and of course Dorothy wants to go home. Like you say, they sought goals we can all use at times.

Crystal Stewart From Bruin, PA At 3/1/2026 7:32:23 PM

Agree so many lessons is right as a kid you don't see them but as an adult that is when you see the lessons learned

Reply by: Sally Jo Pitts

True!

Barbara Diggs From Morristown, TN At 3/1/2026 6:49:12 PM

I’ve watched the movie many times and also read the book. I love both the tin man and the scarecrow because of how they watched over Dorothy! In fact, we decided to rewatch the movie again as soon as I hit submit. I got all inspired by all the comments! Blessings!

Reply by: Sally Jo Pitts

Oh, how fun. See if you gain new insights.

Deborah Thomas From NC At 3/1/2026 6:28:29 PM

I saw the original movie - Toto was my favorite character - he really did not have many lines - but what a character!

Reply by: Sally Jo Pitts

You're right!

Elizabeth From Ga At 3/1/2026 6:17:22 PM

Read the book and seen the movie. Probably the lion us my favorite character.

Reply by: Sally Jo Pitts

He is a favorite.

Heather Dreith From Kansas, USA At 3/1/2026 6:16:46 PM

I read a few of the Oz books when I was young. I remember watching the movie and being terrified of the forest, the flying monkeys and the wicked witch. I think my favorite character (from the movie) was The Scarecrow.

Reply by: Sally Jo Pitts

What a great character. Thanks for stopping by.

Crystal Stewart From Bruin, PA At 3/1/2026 6:05:51 PM

I agree Sally she is hard to forget but for as many times I watched the Wizard of OZ on tv and after reading the book I look back now and as an adult I think of all the lessons we're by Dorothy and the other characters

Reply by: Sally Jo Pitts

Yes. There are many good lessons to be learned in the story.

Lisa Sabatini From Pittston, PA At 3/1/2026 5:56:07 PM

I have seen the film a few times, and read a children's version of the story. I always liked the Tin Man's personality, and now I like him even more because he squeaks and needs lubricant just like old folks like me!

Reply by: Sally Jo Pitts

You make me laugh1

Julie Grace From S.W. Missouri At 3/1/2026 5:47:48 PM

I have read the book and also watched the movie numerous times. It is one of my favorites. My favorite character was the tin man. Have a blessed day. Julie

Reply by: Sally Jo Pitts

A lovely character.

Crystal Stewart From Bruin, PA At 3/1/2026 5:31:54 PM

read the book The Wizzard of OZ and the Movie and my favorite character was Dorothy HOPE I WIN

Reply by: Sally Jo Pitts

She is a classic and hard to forget.

Michaelle Tolles From Lenoir City, TN At 3/1/2026 5:25:29 PM

I love the all the munchkins. Great characters and so much personality in each one. I have seen the movie and I read the book years ago. Very classic movie and most times that I see it playing I will if I have the time watch it.

Reply by: Sally Jo Pitts

The munchkins were featured in author Laura DeNooyer's recipe!

tammie gunter From md live in colorado At 3/1/2026 5:24:40 PM

mrs gultch she was super scary great actress

Reply by: Sally Jo Pitts

You're right!

Renee Mirsky From CONNECTICUT At 3/1/2026 5:24:09 PM

Oh and forgot to mention, yes I read the book and saw the movie multiple times! Beautiful movie; one of the best!

Reply by: Sally Jo Pitts

Thanks for sharing.

Julie Overstreet From Georgia At 3/1/2026 5:22:54 PM

I love Dorothy, Toto, Auntie Em & Glanda the good witch. Growing up we watched the movie every time it came on, which was at least once a year. What a classic. I haven't read the book. Thank you for the chance!! Blessings!!

Reply by: Sally Jo Pitts

Thank you for stopping by.

Sue White From Fallon Nevada At 3/1/2026 5:14:18 PM

The cowardly Lion. Because I am a lot like him I very shy I watched it several times as a kid, with my kids and grandkids

Reply by: Sally Jo Pitts

Aw. He was shy and adorable.

PJ Gaumond From NY At 3/1/2026 5:13:19 PM

That's a really tough question..... The Wizard because he could make the other characters believe things that they already possessed but needed to have a little nudge.

Reply by: Sally Jo Pitts

Interesting pick!

LuAnn Morgan From Othello, Washington At 3/1/2026 5:13:02 PM

One of my favorite characters is the wicked witch. It proves that we all have vulnerabilities, no matter how tough we think we are.

Reply by: Sally Jo Pitts

True!

Jean Hall From OH At 3/1/2026 5:06:29 PM

My favorite character from the Wizard of Oz is the cowardly lion. I have seen the movie more than once but have never read the book. Fun fact: my husband's niece liked to watch the movie when she was 3 or 4, but the tornado scenes really scared her.

Reply by: Sally Jo Pitts

There are scary parts that stick with children.

Nita McAdoo From Sparta, TN At 3/1/2026 5:04:58 PM

Yes, I’ve seen the movie more times than I can count and I’ve read the book. Picking my favorite character is next door to impossible! I’ll just say Toto steals my heart ??

Reply by: Sally Jo Pitts

Me too!

Kylie Clayton From Adelaide, Australia At 3/1/2026 5:04:52 PM

My favourite character, besides Toto , is probably the Scarecrow. He is far smarter than he gives himself credit for, even before visiting the wizard.

Reply by: Sally Jo Pitts

Good point.

Cheryll Sawicki From Oregon, IL At 3/1/2026 5:03:15 PM

I have seen the movie a couple of times. My favorite is Toto.

Reply by: Sally Jo Pitts

He is so cute.

Sharon From Northeast Ohio At 3/1/2026 5:00:33 PM

I liked toto

Reply by: Sally Jo Pitts

He's got the hearts of other commenters too.

Cheryl Malandrinos From Massachusetts At 3/1/2026 4:59:00 PM

I've always liked the lion, because our generation was taught to be tough, but he showed us we could still be loved and appreciated if we had fears and anxiety. I've seen the movie many times, but I still need to read the book.

Reply by: Sally Jo Pitts

Good moral to the story!

Dixie Neitzel From Tomah,Wisconsin At 3/1/2026 4:58:21 PM

I have seen the movie many times in black & white and color. I think my favorite is the Tin Man. I also have a copy of the book.

Reply by: Sally Jo Pitts

Yes. He was a neat character.

Lisa Wright From Prescott Valley AZ At 3/1/2026 4:51:16 PM

The flying monkeys are my favorite....so scary. I have seen it many many times.

Reply by: Sally Jo Pitts

My sister said those creatures really scared her and it stuck with her for years.

DeniseRidgley From Maryland At 3/1/2026 4:49:44 PM

I’ve watched The Wizard of Oz movie for as long as I can remember! My grandmothers were both born in 1899 so this story really intrigues me as the one character is just slightly older than they were. I have many fond memories of the 1980 time period. Added to Goodreads Want to read list.

Reply by: Sally Jo Pitts

It is quite a classic.

Anita Klaboe From PA At 3/1/2026 4:49:25 PM

Dorothy is my favorite and her dog too.

Reply by: Sally Jo Pitts

Oh yes! Toto. Cute doggie.

Lori Byrd From St louis mo At 3/1/2026 4:49:21 PM

I love the lion. I always felt so sorry for him every time I watched the movie growing up. Way too many times to count in my 64 years.

Reply by: Sally Jo Pitts

Good pick.

Andrea Carroll From Wyoming At 3/1/2026 4:48:03 PM

I always liked the flying monkeys... I have both read the book and watched the movie.

Reply by: Sally Jo Pitts

Interesting creatures!

Renee Mirsky From CONNECTICUT At 3/1/2026 4:44:21 PM

Hard to pick a fav character from that story and it could change too day to day but at this point will say the Lion!

Reply by: Sally Jo Pitts

He is a lovable character.

Cyndi Newlan From OH At 3/1/2026 4:41:34 PM

My favorite character is the lion. I'm a lot like him in that I'm a lot of bluster until I really need to have courage. I have seen this too many times to count, plus I own a DVD copy of it.

Reply by: Sally Jo Pitts

It's a Classic! Thanks for stopping by.

Kathryn Gritts From St. Louis, MO At 3/1/2026 4:40:37 PM

My favorite character in The Wizard of Oz is The Scarecrow. I can relate to him. He is clumsy and unsure of himself. He believes he does not have a brain but he is much cleverer than he gives himself credit for. I love watching his character development. I have both read the book and seen the movie.

Reply by: Sally Jo Pitts

Good analysis of the Scarecrow. Thanks for sharing.

Judy Rittenhouse From Alton, Illinois At 3/1/2026 4:40:08 PM

I watch the '"Wizard of Oz" every year and I also have read the book and I collect all of L. Frank Baum's Oz Books. I love all the characters but especially Dorothy.