Son of a Witch

Gregory Maguire

56 pages 1-hour read

Gregory Maguire

Son of a Witch

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2005

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Book Brief

Gregory Maguire

Son of a Witch

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2005
Book Details
Pages

352

Format

Novel • Fiction

Genre
Fantasy

Science Fiction

Action & Adventure
Setting

Oz • Fantasy World

Publication Year

2005

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

Son of a Witch by Gregory Maguire is the second book in The Wicked Years series. It follows Liir, the son of Elphaba, as he navigates challenges in Oz after her death. On a quest for identity and purpose, Liir encounters political unrest, personal growth, and the search for family connections in a richly reimagined magical world.

Mysterious

Dark

Melancholic

Fantastical

Challenging

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

Son of a Witch by Gregory Maguire delivers a dark, complex continuation of the Wicked Years, exploring themes of identity and legacy. While some readers appreciate the rich world-building and intricate narrative, others find the pacing uneven and character development lacking. Maguire's prose maintains its distinctive style, appealing to fans of the original.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Son of a Witch?

Readers who enjoy Son of a Witch by Gregory Maguire likely appreciate imaginative retellings of classic tales with a dark twist. Fans of Wicked or The Wonderful Wizard of Oz may find intrigue in its alternative perspective on Oz, much like enthusiasts of Neil Gaiman's Stardust or Lev Grossman's The Magicians series.

Character List

The protagonist whose journey involves discovering his identity and navigating relationships while dealing with his past and the legacy of his mother, Elphaba.

A talented Quadling woman who helps Liir recover using her unique musical abilities and forms a complex relationship with him.

A member of the Emperor Apostle’s military who initially harbors resentment toward Liir but eventually becomes an important figure in his life.

The leader of the House of Saint Glinda, who stands as a symbol of resistance against the Emerald City's political power.

Elphaba's brother and the antagonist, who wields religion for political control and whose rise to power creates strife.

A leader among the Animals who instructs Liir in self-discovery and holds a legacy of magical transformation.

Once a friend of Elphaba, she becomes an important political figure who aids Liir in times of need.

A character from the original Oz tales who plays a minor yet pivotal role in shaping Liir's early journey.

An oppressive military figure whose past actions against Liir's family haunt the protagonist.

Two maunts at the House of Saint Glinda who provide care for Liir and exemplify teamwork after their initial rivalry.

A mysterious figure with ties to Elphaba's family, impacting key events in Liir's life and the broader narrative.

Book Details
Pages

352

Format

Novel • Fiction

Genre
Fantasy

Science Fiction

Action & Adventure
Setting

Oz • Fantasy World

Publication Year

2005

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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