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Hero archetypes
Heroine archetypes
Protagonist archetypes
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Synopsis
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.
Is Wicked appropriate for my child?
Suitable for most readers 16 and up.
This dark fantasy retelling contains mature themes including domestic violence, sexual content, political oppression, and animal rights activism. The complex philosophical exploration of good and evil is best suited for older teens and adults.
What to know going in
This book has moderate violence, steamy sexual content, and moderate language. Content notes include domestic violence, violence, and animal harm (see the full list above).
Who'll love this
Teens who enjoy questioning assumptions and exploring complex moral questions will appreciate this darker reimagining of The Wizard of Oz from the witch's perspective.