What is wicked book summary?

Wicked: The Life and Times of the Wicked Witch of the West by Gregory Maguire reimagines the Land of Oz and tells the story of Elphaba, the "Wicked Witch of the West," from her birth to her supposed death.

Here's a brief summary and key subjects:

The novel explores Elphaba's unconventional upbringing and her time at Shiz University, where she befriends Glinda. Their relationship, initially strained, evolves into a complex bond despite their differing personalities and ideologies.

A central theme is political intrigue in Oz, as Elphaba uncovers the corruption and oppression perpetrated by the Wizard and his regime. She becomes increasingly disillusioned with the direction Oz is taking, particularly the mistreatment of Animals (sentient creatures with the ability to speak).

Elphaba's commitment to social justice leads her down a path of rebellion. Her actions, although intended to protect the oppressed, are misinterpreted and twisted by the Wizard's propaganda, ultimately leading to her being labeled "wicked".

The book also delves into the nature of good and evil, challenging the simplistic dichotomy presented in the original Wizard of Oz and forcing the reader to question their own preconceived notions.

Finally, love and loss are major themes. Elphaba experiences both romantic love and profound loss, which shape her character and motivations. These experiences contribute to her growing cynicism and determination to fight against injustice.