Enter Oz as experienced by Elphaba, the Wicked Witch of the West. Beginning with Elphaba’s birth, upbringing as the daughter of a minister and education at Shiz University, the book shows how Oz viewed her and her estrangement with the world of Oz. Other hats Elphaba has worn are Animal rights activist, nun, traveler, spirit quest seeker and mother. Characters make a strong impression but it takes time before Maguire shows all that they are capable of. By the time Elphaba encounters Dorothy, you’ll understand why she treats Dorothy the way she does. If you felt that Baum’s original story left out too many details, then Wicked will fill them in for you. This is highly recommended for fans of fairy tales rewritten for adults.

Reviewed by Christie B., Independence Regional

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