Ask My Shelf
Log in Register
Ask My Shelf

Share your thoughts in a quick Shelf Talk!

Wicked by Gregory Maguire

Have you read this book? Just a few quick questions — it takes about a minute. Share what you liked (or didn’t), and we’ll use your answers to recommend your next favorite read!

Love Wicked but not sure what to read next?

These picks are popular with readers who enjoyed this book. Complete a quick Shelf Talk to get recommendations made just for you! Warning: possible spoilers for Wicked below.

In Wicked, did you enjoy ...

... morally complex central characters who struggle with their own ethics and the expectations of society?

The Goblin Emperor by Katherine Addison

If you were drawn to Elphaba's complicated morality and ambiguous heroism in Wicked, you'll find Maia's journey in The Goblin Emperor equally compelling. Maia, an outsider thrust into the role of emperor, must navigate a labyrinth of court politics while confronting his own doubts and the weight of leadership. Like Elphaba, Maia is neither a simple villain nor a perfect hero, but a multi-faceted character whose choices challenge conventional ideas of good and evil.

... a richly imagined world with intricate histories, cultures, and magical systems?

Jonathan Strange and Mr Norrell by Susanna Clarke

If the immersive and detailed world of Oz in Wicked captivated you, Jonathan Strange & Mr Norrell will delight with its extensive lore, footnotes, and deep exploration of English magic. The alternative history, complex social structures, and magical politics create a setting as layered and fascinating as Maguire's Oz.

... the transformation and personal growth of a misunderstood protagonist?

Circe by Madeline Miller

If you were moved by Elphaba's evolution from a misunderstood outsider to a powerful figure in Wicked, you'll be enthralled by Circe's journey in Circe. The book traces her transformation from a neglected daughter of the gods to a self-assured, independent woman, capturing the emotional depth and growth that made Elphaba so compelling.

... political upheaval, shifting power dynamics, and intrigue within society?

The Power by Naomi Alderman

If you enjoyed the scheming, political maneuvering, and social upheaval woven throughout Wicked, The Power offers a gripping exploration of how sudden shifts in power upend societies. Through intersecting narratives, Alderman delves into the consequences of women developing a new, world-altering ability, creating a tapestry of intrigue and ambition reminiscent of the machinations in Oz.

... dark, subversive reinterpretations of classic myths and fairy tales?

The Book of Lost Things by John Connolly

If you loved how Wicked reimagined the classic Oz story through a darker, more adult lens, The Book of Lost Things will appeal with its twisted, haunting take on fairy tales. Young David's journey through a nightmarish fantasy land blends myth, allegory, and psychological depth, offering a sophisticated, thought-provoking spin on familiar stories.

Unlock your personalized book recommendations! Just take a quick Shelf Talk for Wicked by Gregory Maguire. It’s only a few questions and takes less than a minute.