Book Review: Wicked by Gregory Maguire – A Dark and Spellbinding Retelling of Oz

Title: Wicked: The Life and Times of the Wicked Witch of the West
Author: Gregory Maguire
Genre: Fantasy, Fairy Tale Retelling
Published: 1995

What makes a villain wicked? Wicked: The Life and Times of the Wicked Witch of the West by Gregory Maguire flips the familiar story of The Wizard of Oz on its head, giving readers a deeper and more humanizing look at Elphaba—better known as the Wicked Witch of the West. With intricate storytelling, political undertones, and deep philosophical questions, Maguire's novel transforms a simple fairy tale into an epic exploration of identity, morality, and societal judgment.

If you’re looking for a dark and thought-provoking fantasy novel with rich world-building and complex characters, this Wicked book review will help you decide if Maguire’s Oz is worth visiting.

Plot Summary: A Journey into the Heart of Wickedness

Wicked opens in Munchkinland, where Elphaba is born with emerald green skin—an immediate mark of her otherness. As she grows up, she faces prejudice, isolation, and questions of destiny that ultimately shape her character. Her time at Shiz University introduces her to Glinda (the "Good Witch") and a host of other characters who influence her path, including mentors, lovers, and political foes.

Elphaba’s story is intertwined with the broader political and social tensions in Oz. The corrupt Wizard’s regime, the persecution of talking Animals, and the struggle for power turn her into an unlikely rebel. The novel charts her journey from misunderstood girl to determined activist—and finally, to the feared "Wicked Witch" we know from The Wizard of Oz.

But Maguire’s tale forces readers to ask: Is Elphaba truly wicked, or is she simply a victim of circumstances and society’s judgment?

Why Wicked Stands Out

1. A Fresh Take on a Classic Tale
Wicked offers an entirely new perspective on the beloved story of Oz. By humanizing Elphaba and exploring her backstory, Maguire turns a one-dimensional villain into a fully fleshed-out, relatable character.

2. Complex, Multi-Layered Characters
Elphaba is the heart of the novel—fierce, intelligent, and deeply flawed. Her green skin becomes a powerful symbol of societal rejection, but her ideals and actions make her a tragic and heroic figure. Even supporting characters like Glinda, Fiyero, and the Wizard are nuanced, with their own motivations and struggles.

3. A Richly Detailed World of Oz
Maguire’s version of Oz is darker and more politically charged than the whimsical land in Baum’s original tale. The intricate world-building—complete with talking Animals, mysterious magical forces, and moral gray areas—creates a vivid, immersive reading experience.

4. Thought-Provoking Themes
At its core, Wicked explores powerful themes:

• Morality: What defines good and evil?
• Identity: How do societal labels shape who we become?
• Power and Politics: How does corruption impact justice?

These themes make Wicked much more than a fantasy—it’s a novel that challenges readers to reflect on their own world.

Writing Style and Tone

Gregory Maguire’s writing is poetic and intricate, blending whimsy with dark realism. His prose is dense at times, making Wicked a more mature and literary read than traditional fairy tales. Readers who enjoy philosophical undertones and detailed storytelling will appreciate Maguire’s unique style.

However, the novel’s complexity might be challenging for those expecting a fast-paced plot. Patience is rewarded, though, as Maguire slowly unravels the layers of Elphaba’s life and the world of Oz.

Who Should Read Wicked?

• Fans of fairy tale retellings with darker, more adult themes.
• Readers who love morally complex characters and intricate world-building.
• Anyone interested in political and philosophical questions woven into fantasy storytelling.
• Fans of The Wizard of Oz looking for a fresh perspective on the iconic tale.
• If you loved books like The Once and Future Witches by Alix E. Harrow or Circe by Madeline Miller, Wicked is sure to enchant you.

Is Wicked Worth Reading?

Wicked is a bold and imaginative retelling that transforms a classic villain into a tragic heroine. Gregory Maguire’s ability to blend fantasy, politics, and human emotion makes this novel a must-read for fans of darker, thought-provoking stories.

While it’s not a light read, its themes of identity, justice, and societal judgment resonate deeply, leaving readers questioning who the real villains are in any story.

Rating: ★★★★☆

Where to Find Wicked

You can purchase Wicked on: Amazon, Barnes & Noble or Your favorite local bookstore.

Conclusion

Wicked challenges the fairy tale tropes we grew up with, proving that every story has more than one side. It’s a book that lingers in your mind long after you turn the final page, offering a new lens through which to view the "Wicked Witch of the West."

Have you read Wicked or any other retellings that reshaped your view of classic villains? Share your thoughts in the comments below!