Common Sense Media Review
By Sage Moreaux
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Ok philosophical coming-of-age prequel for teens and adults.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 14+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Read
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
ELPHIE begins when Elphaba, the future Wicked Witch of the West, is a toddler playing in the swampland of Quadling Country where her father works as a rogue missionary. As Elphaba grows up she suffers the sibling jealousies that come with the birth of her younger sister and brother. Young Elphie lives on the edges of society, learning about the ways of the world mostly through her own observation. She meets Animals, the intelligent cousins to ordinary animals, and begins to understand the complex social order of the land of Oz. The story of Elphie's childhood adds further depth to one of Oz's most compelling characters.
Is It Any Good?
Slow-paced, with a meandering storyline, this book is written in a creative style that borders on excessively stylistic and flowery. While it's interesting to learn more about Elphaba's upbringing in Elphie: A Wicked Childhood, the plodding plot may appeal most to true fans of the Wicked Years series who will find much to enjoy. Like Gregory Maguire's other books set in Oz, there's plenty of thought provoking philosophical questions, including the nature of truth and memory, right versus wrong, and nature versus nurture. Those looking for a deeper look at Elphaba's formative years who don't mind a quiet, complex read, will likely enjoy this prequel.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about Elphaba's childhood in Elphie. How do her experiences and family life impact who she becomes later in life? Do you think her curiosity was a product of nature or nurture?
There are many instances of racism in this representation of Oz. Can you draw parallels with our own society?
Why do you think the author chose to revisit this story?
Book Details
- Author :
- Genre : Fantasy
- Topics : Fantasy ( Fairy Tales , Magic )
- Character Strengths : Curiosity
- Book type : Fiction
- Publisher : William Morrow
- Publication date : March 25, 2025
- Publisher's recommended age(s) : 18 - 18
- Number of pages : 288
- Available on : Paperback, Audiobook (unabridged), Hardback, Apple Books, Kindle
- Last updated : September 30, 2025
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