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 reimagining of L. Frank Baum’s classic The Wonderful Wizard of Oz, offering a fresh and provocative take on the world of Oz. This novel introduces readers to Elphaba, a green-skinned girl born into a land plagued by superstition, poverty, and political oppression. Unlike the familiar story of Dorothy, Wicked delves into the origins of the so-called Wicked Witch of the West, revealing a complex character who struggles against a society that fears and misunderstands her.

As Elphaba grows up, she attends Shiz University, where she befriends some of Oz’s most promising young citizens. However, the world she inhabits is far from idyllic. The Wizard’s secret police control the land, and Animals—creatures with the ability to speak and think—are persecuted. Elphaba becomes an unlikely hero, fiercely determined to protect the Animals and resist the Wizard’s tyrannical rule, even at the cost of her own happiness.

Maguire’s novel weaves a rich tapestry of magical realism, blending myth, fantasy, and social commentary. Wicked not only challenges the traditional notions of good and evil but also explores deeper themes of identity, power, and the consequences of societal judgments. It’s a story that has captivated millions and inspired the Tony-winning musical adaptation, soon to be a major motion picture. Through Elphaba’s journey, Maguire invites readers to question the labels of “wicked” and “good” and to revisit the land of Oz with new eyes. ❤️📚❤️