Wicked
The Life and Times of the Wicked Witch of the West
By Gregory Maguire

When the Witch of the West, born as Elphaba, is born with green skin and large sharp teeth, her parents are shocked. Later, the mother tells the nanny she remembers being raped by a green troll or dwarf of some sort. Elphaba's mother actually turns out to be a woman of loose morals and prefers men the moral opposite of her missionary spouse.

Elphaba's life is played out from childhood to adult, and it is exceedingly detailed. As Elphaba grows up she takes notice of the social, religious, and political sides of Oz. She doesn't like what she sees and can't seem to be quiet about it. Soon, she joins others on a secret mission, using magic to hide their wicked plan.

Those in Braum's Wizard of Oz are included in the storyline as the author tries to reveal why the characters are the way they are in the original Wizard of the Oz. The Tin Man is abused. Glinda, the Good Witch is vain. The talking animals fight for the right to be like humans. The Wicked Witch of the East is their father's pet. She is also severely handicapped. The ruby slippers are also a part of the story. And Dorothy shows up towards the end.

     Gregory Maguire's fantasy, Wicked, contains absolutely none of the innocence found in L. Frank Baum's Wizard of Oz. Maguire's Oz and its citizens are fascinating, but the story loses some of its appeal through the unnecessary sexual content and language. Although Wicked can be enjoyed for the author's vivid imagination, it's a shame it can't be enjoyed by a wider audience.

     Wicked is read by John McDonough. Amazingly, he does a good job of bringing this unabridged version to life. I do, however, recommend using headphones or listening to it after the kids go to bed.