Authors Quote by L. Frank Baum
““Perhaps I should admit on the title page that this book is "By L. Frank Baum and his correspondents," for I have used many suggestions conveyed to me in letters from children. Once on a time I really imagined myself "an author of fairy tales," but now I am merely an editor or private secretary for a host of youngsters whose ideas I am requested to weave into the thread of my stories...My, what imaginations these children have developed! Sometimes I am fairly astounded by their daring an genius. There will be no lack of fairy-tale authors in the future, I am sure. My readers have told me what to do with Dorothy, and Aunt Em and Uncle Henry, and I have obeyed their mandates. They have also given me a variety of subjects to write about in the future: enough, in fact, to keep me busy for some time. I am very proud of this alliance. Children love these stories because children have helped to create them. My readers know what they want and realize I try to please them. The result is satisfactory to the publishers, to me, and (I am quite sure) to the children. I hope, my dears, it will be a long time before we are obliged to dissolve partnership.””
About This Quote
Baum reflects on collaborative storytelling with children, emphasizing that their imagination drives the narrative and that he serves as a conduit for their ideas.
In simple terms: Collaboration, imagination, children's input, editorial role, partnership
Children co‑author their own tales
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- Writing children's books
- Developing interactive stories
- Co‑creating content with young audiences
Key Concepts
Practical Applications
- Educational workshops
- Publishing
Questions to Reflect On
- How does child input shape narrative voice?
- What are the limits of collaborative storytelling?
Critics claim that authorial control is necessary for artistic integrity, opposing the notion of shared authorship.