The Secret World of Og facts for kids
Cover of the first edition
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| Author | Pierre Berton |
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| Country | Canada |
| Language | English |
| Genre | Children's novel |
| Publisher | McClelland and Stewart |
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Publication date
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1961 |
| Media type | Print (Hardback & Paperback) |
The Secret World of Og is a popular children's novel. It was written by Pierre Berton and illustrated by his daughter, Patsy. The book was first published in 1961 by McClelland and Stewart.
This Canadian story has sold over 200,000 copies. It has been released in four different versions. Of his many books, Pierre Berton said this one was his favorite. This is partly because the characters were inspired by his own children. The Secret World of Og received lots of fan mail. Children from all over Canada sent him letters every week.
Contents
What is The Secret World of Og About?
Exploring the Underground World
This exciting fantasy adventure story follows four children. They are Penny, who is the leader, and Pamela, her smart sister. There's also Peter, who dreams of becoming a garbageman. Finally, there's Patsy, who loves collecting frogs.
The children go looking for their baby brother, Paul. Everyone calls him "The Pollywog." He has mysteriously disappeared from their playhouse. With their brave pets by their side, the children find a secret trapdoor. They go down into a strange underground world. This world is filled with giant mushrooms. Its green inhabitants only know one word: "OG!"
How Was The Secret World of Og Adapted?
From Book to Screen: TV Shows and Movies
The Secret World of Og has inspired several TV shows and movies. An animated action-adventure TV series was made in 2006. It aired on CBC Television in Canada. The series also played in the United States on Starz Kids and Family.
Before that, an animated television special based on the book was broadcast in 1983. This special, also called The Secret World of Og, was produced by Hanna-Barbera. It was part of ABC Weekend Specials in the United States.
What Happens in the TV Series?
The TV series adds more to the original book's story. It follows the five Berton siblings as they explore the underground world of Og. They go through a hole in their playhouse floor. Down there, they find rivers, caves, and villages made of mushrooms. They meet little green creatures called Ogs. They also meet other neighbors like trolls, ogres, and fairies. There's even a mysterious sea monster named Nessie.
From Book to Stage: Plays and Operas
The Secret World of Og has also been performed on stage. Carousel Theatre created a stage version in April 2009. It was shown in Vancouver, BC. The play was adapted by Governor General's Award winning writer Kevin Kerr.
The Canadian Children's Opera Company (CCOC) also made an opera version. It was performed in May 2010 in Toronto. This opera, with music and words by Dean Burry, was directed by Joel Ivany. Ann Cooper Gay conducted the music.
The Sarasota Youth Opera presented the first United States performance of the opera. This happened on November 12, 2016, at the historic Sarasota Opera House. Martha Collins directed the show, and Jesse Martins conducted.
