Wicked, Son of a Witch, A Lion Among Men, Out of Oz BY Maguire Gregory

Wicked by Gregory Maguire, the New York Times bestseller and inspiration for the Tony-winning musical, is a novel that reimagines the world of Oz, blending elements of fantasy, magical realism, and social commentary. With millions of copies sold worldwide, this iconic novel offers a fresh take on L. Frank Baum’s classic The Wonderful Wizard of Oz, exploring the untold story of Elphaba, the Wicked Witch of the West.

Born with emerald-green skin, Elphaba faces prejudice and hardship in the land of Oz, where superstition and magic coexist with natural disasters and political oppression. As she grows up and attends Shiz University, Elphaba becomes part of a group of promising young citizens but soon realizes that Oz is far from the utopia it appears to be. The Wizard’s secret police are everywhere, and the Animals—sentient creatures with voices and souls—are threatened with extinction. Driven by a deep sense of justice, Elphaba vows to protect the Animals, even if it means opposing the powerful and mysterious Wizard.

As Elphaba’s journey unfolds, she grapples with her identity, her place in the world, and the burdens of guilt and sorrow. Her transformation into the infamous Wicked Witch is both tragic and empowering, offering a nuanced portrayal of a character often misunderstood. Wicked is a rich, imaginative novel that challenges our perceptions of good and evil, making it a story to revisit for years to come.