Wicked Book Summary
The Life and Times of the Wicked Witch of the West
TL;DR
Wicked by Gregory Maguire reimagines the land of Oz, telling the untold story of the Wicked Witch of the West and exploring themes of societal norms and ostracism.
What is Wicked about
Wicked, subtitled 'The Life and Times of the Wicked Witch of the West,' delves into the backstory of Elphaba, the infamous Wicked Witch. Gregory Maguire crafts a rich fantasy world that reinterprets the classic Oz tale from Elphaba's perspective. Born with green skin to a preacher and his neglected wife, Elphaba's journey from an ostracized child to the feared witch is explored in depth, offering a complex portrayal that challenges conventional notions of good and evil.
Wicked 5 Key Takeaways
Elphaba's Birth
Elphaba is born with green skin to a unionist preacher and his wife, who neglects her due to her unusual appearance. This sets the stage for Elphaba's challenging life.
University Life
Elphaba attends Shiz University, where she faces social ostracism but also forms pivotal relationships, including with Glinda, the Good Witch.
Activism and Rebellion
Elphaba becomes deeply involved in political activism against the Wizard's oppressive regime, which labels her as wicked.
Personal Tragedy
A series of personal losses and betrayals further push Elphaba into isolation, heightening her perceived wickedness.
Downfall and Redemption
Elphaba's tale culminates in her downfall at the hands of Dorothy, but Maguire's portrayal questions whether she was truly evil or a victim of circumstance.
Top Wicked Quotes
- 'Are people born wicked, or do they have wickedness thrust upon them?'
- 'Remember this: Nothing is written in the stars. Not these stars, nor any others. No one controls your destiny.'
Who should read Wicked?
Adult readers who enjoy complex, morally ambiguous characters and reimagined classic tales will find Wicked captivating. The book's mature themes and psychological depth make it suitable for those seeking a thought-provoking fantasy.
Wicked Best Reviews
- The New York Times describes Wicked as 'a magical novel that will whisk readers away to a fantastical world, rich with imagination and psychological depth.'
- The Boston Globe praises the book, stating, 'Maguire's Oz is meticulously dark and full of complex moral questions, making it a compelling read for adults.'
People also liked these summaries
Wicked FAQs
What is the book Wicked by Gregory Maguire about?
Wicked explores the life of Elphaba, the Wicked Witch of the West, offering a complex portrayal that challenges conventional notions of good and evil.
Is Wicked an adult book?
Yes, Wicked contains mature themes and explicit content, making it suitable for adult readers.
What is the order of the Wicked by Gregory Maguire series?
The series includes: 'Wicked: The Life and Times of the Wicked Witch of the West,' 'Son of a Witch,' 'A Lion Among Men,' and 'Out of Oz.'