Contains three essays by scholars of literature and history addressing a little-known but influential period in the life of children's author L. Frank Baum, author of . Covers Baum's business career in Aberdeen, Dakota Territory; how he used Dakota history and culture in some of his short works; and other topics. Includes poems, newspaper editorials, and a short story by Baum plus a recently rediscovered article titled . Annotation c. Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)