62 pages • 2 hours read
Gregory MaguireWicked: Life and Times of the Wicked Witch of the West
Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1995A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
Before You Read
Super Short Summary
Wicked: The Life and Times of the Wicked Witch of the West by Gregory Maguire reimagines the life of Elphaba, the green-skinned girl who becomes the Wicked Witch of the West, depicting her journey from a misunderstood and isolated child to a politically active and intelligent young woman. Alongside her childhood friend Glinda, she navigates complex relationships and sociopolitical struggles in the magical land of Oz. This book includes themes of discrimination, ableism, and violence.
Reviews & Readership
Review Roundup
Wicked by Gregory Maguire has captivated readers with its inventive retelling of the Wicked Witch of the West's backstory. Praised for its imaginative world-building and complex characters, the book delves into themes of morality and identity. However, some critics find its dense prose and political undertones challenging. Overall, it offers an engaging and thought-provoking read.
Who Should Read Wicked?
Readers who enjoy Wicked by Gregory Maguire typically appreciate complex retellings of classic stories with rich, dark themes. Fans of L. Frank Baum's The Wizard of Oz, Philip Pullman's His Dark Materials series, and Margaret Atwood's The Handmaid's Tale will find its blend of fantasy, political intrigue, and moral ambiguity appealing.
RecommendedReading Age
18+yearsLexile Level
890L