Rating: Summary: Exquisite writing in a captivating tale Review: Maguire's writing is stunning. I find myself re-reading countless passages and phrases over and over again for the sheer beauty of the imagery and clever use of metaphor. Of course, the story is wonderfully entertaining as well! There are a few (very few) places in the middle where the politically based storyline becomes more heavy than charming, but on the whole, the fact that the book makes one actually think is in fact pleasurable and not tedious at all. For those who have the chance to see the new broadway musical based on this wonderful book, be sure to read the book first. Otherwise much of the wonderful complexities of the story will be lost in the singing.
Rating: Summary: A Wicked Good Read Review: Don't pick this book up expecting the action-packed fantasy adventure of, say, a Harry Potter novel. Sure, the main character is a witch, and every once in a while she does ride a broom. But for the most part, Elphaba (the Witch) just spends her time arguing with other characters about predestination, free will, minority rights, and the existence of God. She doesn't even consider herself a "witch." She's a natural scientist.It's kind of heady stuff. The author packs a lot of opposed philosophies into this book without ever really making a stand himself. It's the kind of book where everybody's name "means" something- all the characters stand in for various big ideas. Fascinating for those that have both the intellect and inclination to mull over the many symbolic references the author makes. Yep, it's pretty much a masterpiece - but only if you "get it" and want to chat about it in your book club. This is the IDEAL book for a book club. Unfortunately, the narrative plot is constrained and finally overrun by all the symbolism. So its not a particularly exciting read. Personally, I could have done with a bit less symbolism and a bit more fantastical, escapist adventure. But maybe I'm just lazy that way.
Rating: Summary: Unique! Review: I've never read anything quite like this before. I though it was terrific. I've always had questions about why the characters in the movie behaved in the ways they did, and the way this book was written explains some of the all too human motives behind the story. I don't usually read in the fantasy genre, but this was very satisfying and thought provoking.
Rating: Summary: ONE OF THE BEST BOOKS I HAVE READ Review: This book is one of the most enlightening books one can read in regard to the Wizard of Oz. When you pick it up you simply cannot put it down. It sets up the expositions brilliantly leaving nothing unanswered. However, if you don't like books on which to contemplate chances you will not like this book, the detail in it only is entertaining to those readers who are more interested in evaluating than just being presented. But regardless, it is a literary masterpiece, an excellent first book for any author who will surely come to be one of my favourites!
Rating: Summary: Not as Wicked as One Would Think Review: Although the plot, and story its self seem great, it is an "okay" book. Not a favorite, but I dont' hate it. If you're bored, an like Oz, read it. If you're not into magic or politics, don't read.
Rating: Summary: A little too out there Review: This book started out really good. You get to see where the witch comes from early in life and possibly reasons why she is so different from everyone else (skin color). After those few first chapters, you forget you are reading a book based on The Wizard of Oz. It gets extremely boring in the last 100 pages and I would not recommend anyone read this book.
Rating: Summary: One of the all time worst books Review: I was so excited to read this book after learning about the premise. Once I started it, I was really disappointed. I could not finish this book. I was bored out of my mind! I finally flipped ahead to see if it got any better, but figured there were way too many excellent books out there to waste my time further with this piece of garbage. Believe me, I am being generous with the 1 star rating!!
Rating: Summary: I'm telling everyone I know about this one. Review: Yes,I grew up on The Wizard of Oz. Yes, I certainly had pre-conceived notions of Oz, Munchkinland, The Emerald City, and all of the characters, especially The Wicked Witch. If you don't want your memory tainted, don't read this book! If you're a child who is fascinated by the storybook or the movie, don't read this book (this is not kid's stuff)! However, if you are an intelligent adult looking for another perspective on a classic character, read it! If you like exploring the darker side of reality, read it! If you are a sociologist, anthropologist,political science major, read it! Yes, it does get a bit slow in parts. But isn't that sometimes required in literature to flesh out characters, and their environments? This is not cheesy pulp horror stuff you can just breeze through. It is though-provoking and a challenging read. Looking forward to reading "Lost" and "Confessions". Wondering what Mr. Maguire will come up with next.
Rating: Summary: Page-turner, just don't think too hard about the plot Review: This book hooked me in the first two pages and I really enjoyed reading it up until the last couple of chapters, then the author threw in a pressured and cramped discussion on the nature of evil that didn't really fit into the style of the narrative but that he obviously felt was necessary to emphasize the theme of the book. Also, there are holes in the plot big enough to drive a mac truck through. A fun read over-all, I would recommend it.
Rating: Summary: WICKED--GREGORY MAGUIRE Review: This novel is the tale of Elphaba, a girl born with green skin. She grows up, befriending Galinda (Glinda), and even tries to start an overthrowing of the tyrant 'Wizard'. But in the end, she must fulfill her destiny. This novel is a lot about religion and the nature of evil. Does fate really control our lives? Is everything meant to happen? This novel explores these topics and more, putting a twist on the age-old classic. Darkly funny, a great read.
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