Common Sense Media Review
By Sage Moreaux
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Muddy morals in fast-paced adventure set in Oz.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 9+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Read
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
In WICKED NEVER WAITS, Ava and her friends can't wait to return to the School for Wicked Witches. But between missing assignments, detention, and strained friendships, Ava starts to wonder if coming back was a mistake. But when the wicked Vivienne Morderay attacks the school, leaving the teachers and other students helpless, it's up to Ava and her friends to stop her. Can they put their differences aside and work together to save the day?
Is It Any Good?
Fast-paced and action-packed, this book is a fun addition to the series and great for kids who are excited by all things Oz but too young for the novel Wicked. But, like the first book, Wicked Never Waits doesn't share much with the Wizard of Oz, other than a few mentions of the Yellow Brick Road and the capital city of Oz. With the characters and world building established in the first book, Wicked Never Waits dives straight into action. The story walks a fine line between silly and meaningful. While Ava's exploration of what it means to be wicked takes a back seat to the adventure, the story continues to explore themes of friendship and making hard choices.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about Ava's determination to become someone important in the School for Wicked Witches. Why do you think this is her goal?
Why do you think Ava is forbidden from using magic during detention?
What do you think about Ava and Tinabella's friendship?
Book Details
- Author :
- Genre : Fantasy
- Topics : Fantasy ( Magic ) , Friendship
- Character Strengths : Courage , Perseverance
- Book type : Fiction
- Publisher : Scholastic Inc.
- Publication date : February 4, 2025
- Publisher's recommended age(s) : 8 - 12
- Number of pages : 224
- Available on : Paperback, Audiobook (unabridged), Apple Books, Kindle
- Last updated : September 18, 2025
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