My rating: 3 of 5 stars
It took far longer to finish this book than I thought it would. Not only did the story drag in too many spots, but the language is difficult and hard to read. It is the story of Elphaba, the Wicked Witch of the West in the Wizard of Oz, and it tries to make her an interesting and redeemable character. She is born to parents who are understandably puzzled by this green-skinned, prickly child. She attends university with Glinda, who is a society girl and a bit of a snob. Elphaba herself never really outgrows the prickliness, and is so wrapped up in herself and her ideology that she never really comes to life as a character.
The story tries to be philosophical, with long passages discussing the nature of evil. It also touches on social commentary, and political intrigue. It just never settles into one or the other, and it all ends up being a bit confusing.
The book received quite a bit of hype, especially after it was made into the musical. I’m really not sure why, as I found it confusing and difficult.
And So On... 