TL;DR
A Wrinkle in Time is a science fiction and fantasy classic where Meg Murry, her brother Charles Wallace, and friend Calvin O'Keefe travel through space and time to rescue Meg's father from a dark force threatening the universe.
What is A Wrinkle in Time about
A Wrinkle in Time, written by Madeleine L'Engle, is a Newbery Medal-winning science fiction and fantasy novel. It follows the story of Meg Murry, her brother Charles Wallace, and friend Calvin O'Keefe as they embark on a perilous journey through time and space. Guided by three mysterious creatures, they set out to rescue Meg's father, a scientist who has gone missing while working on a top-secret government project. Their journey takes them to the planet Camazotz, where they confront a dark force that endangers not only Mr. Murry but the entire universe. The novel is widely celebrated for its imaginative narrative and its themes of courage, love, and the battle between good and evil.
A Wrinkle in Time 6 Key Takeaways
Meg, Charles Wallace, and Calvin meet Mrs. Whatsit, Mrs. Who, and Mrs. Which.
The three children encounter three otherworldly beings who inform them about a mission to save Meg's father, who is trapped on a distant planet.
Introduction to Tesseracts.
The children learn about tesseracts, which are wrinkles in time and space that enable them to travel across the universe instantly.
Journey to Camazotz.
They travel to the planet Camazotz, which is under the control of a dark force known as IT, and discover that Mr. Murry is held captive there.
Confrontation with IT.
Meg, Charles Wallace, and Calvin face the malevolent entity IT, which has the power to control minds and has turned Camazotz into a dystopian society.
Meg's triumph through love.
Meg realizes that her love for her brother is the key to overcoming IT's control and successfully rescues Charles Wallace and her father.
Return to Earth.
After defeating IT, the children return to Earth, having learned valuable lessons about love, courage, and the importance of individuality.
Top A Wrinkle in Time Quotes
- "Life, with its rules, its obligations, and its freedoms, is like a sonnet: You're given the form, but you have to write the sonnet yourself."
- "We can't take any credit for our talents. It's how we use them that counts."
Who should read A Wrinkle in Time?
A Wrinkle in Time is perfect for readers aged 8 and up who enjoy science fiction and fantasy. It's suitable for young readers who appreciate imaginative adventures and complex themes of love, courage, and the battle between good and evil. Adults who love nostalgic reads will also find it engaging.
A Wrinkle in Time Best Reviews
- "A Wrinkle in Time is one of my favorite books of all time. I've read it so often, I know it by heart." —Meg Cabot
- "A book that has inspired generations of children, A Wrinkle in Time is a must-read for young readers and adults alike." —TIME Magazine
People also liked these summaries
A Wrinkle in Time FAQs
What is A Wrinkle in Time book about?
A Wrinkle in Time is the story of Meg Murry, her brother Charles Wallace, and their friend Calvin O'Keefe as they travel through space and time to rescue Meg's father from an evil force on another planet.
What age is appropriate for A Wrinkle in Time book?
The book is recommended for readers aged 10 and up, though younger readers with advanced reading skills may also enjoy it.
Is A Wrinkle in Time based on a true story?
While the story itself is fictional, Madeleine L'Engle modeled the Murry family on her own, blending scientific and religious themes reflective of her own life experiences.