Wicked, Son of a Witch, A Lion Among Men, Out of Oz, 4 BOOKS IN 1, By Maguire Gregory

Wicked by Gregory Maguire is a transformative retelling of the classic The Wizard of Oz, reimagining the land of Oz through the eyes of Elphaba, the Wicked Witch of the West. Born with emerald-green skin, Elphaba grows up in a harsh and unforgiving Oz, a place plagued by natural disasters and ruled by the oppressive Wizard. As she navigates her way through Shiz University, Elphaba becomes entangled in the political and social turmoil of her world. Her passion for justice, particularly for the persecuted Animals—sentient creatures threatened by the Wizard's regime—drives her into a confrontation with the forces of power in Oz.

Maguire's novel is not just a story about good versus evil; it is a complex exploration of identity, destiny, and the nature of morality. Elphaba's journey from misunderstood child to infamous witch is rich with themes of alienation, resistance, and the consequences of standing against injustice. The novel delves into the darker, more intricate aspects of Oz, challenging the black-and-white morality presented in the original tale.

Wicked has left a significant cultural impact, inspiring a Tony-winning musical and a forthcoming major motion picture starring Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande. With its blend of magical realism, mythic fantasy, and moral complexity, Maguire’s Wicked has established itself as a modern classic, inviting readers to reconsider the boundaries between villainy and heroism, and the true meaning of “wickedness.”