When Dorothy triumphed over the Wicked Witch of the West in L. Frank Baum's classic tale, we heard only her side of the story. But what about her arch-nemesis, the mysterious witch? Where did she come from? How did she become so wicked? And what is the true nature of evil?
Gregory Maguire creates a fantasy world so rich and vivid that we will never look at Oz the same way again. Wicked is about a land where animals talk and strive to be treated like first-class citizens, Munchkinlanders seek the comfort of middle-class stability and the Tin Man becomes a victim of domestic violence. And then there is the little green-skinned girl named Elphaba, who will grow up to be the infamous Wicked Witch of the West, a smart, prickly and misunderstood creature who challenges all our preconceived notions about the nature of good and evil.
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Oz is re-imagined and crafted in a beautifully rich way, and in Elphaba we are given a truly unique, compelling, layered heroine. She is one of my all time favourite characters, and this, one of my all time favourite books. - Jessalyn (QBD)
Guest, 24/02/2019
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It would be a mistake to go into this novel thinking it will be like the musical that it inspired, the story is similar but their manner and tone differ. Where the musical is warm and feel good, this is dark and twisted. Personally, I love it all the more for that fact. Oz is re-imagined and crafted in a beautifully rich way, so vivid it was as if I felt this book more than read it. And in Elphaba we are given a truly unique, compelling, layered heroine. She is one of my all time favourite characters and this, one of my all time favourite books. - Jessalyn (QBD)
Guest, 11/03/2017
Wicked
There was a lot more happening in Oz before Dorothy landed. This book is a fantastic take on what the Wicked Witch of the West was like, making her more than a one dimensional villain. Who is the mysterious Witch Where did she come from How did she become so wicked Gregory Maguire created a rich fantasy world that draws you in, where you meet so many fantastic characters, including the Wicked Witch. Dorothy may not seem as sweet by the time you finish it. Still a great series for those who have seen the Wizard of Oz movie but may not have read original L. Frank Baum Oz stories. Reviewed by 39KL
QBD, 18/08/2014
wicked
So much more than a prelude to 'wizard of oz'!! Loved it! full of fantastical things beyond your imagination, political intrigue, love, hate...never wanted it to end. It's by far one of the best books I have read in some years and wish they would make a movie. allison
Guest, 10/04/2010
