Rejoicify, it’s time to return to Oz! As you prepare to walk down the Yellow Brick Road, dive into one of these thrillifying reads, perfect for any fans of Wicked! From stories of witches and friendship to tales that will make you question who the real villain is, these books are sure to fill the pink and green void you’ll have after the close of Glinda and Elphaba’s chapters.
Plus, don’t miss our picks for Glinda and Elphaba! If you find yourself relating to either character, or are simply a fan of their story, be sure to check out these reads.
Bad Witches by H. B. Akumiah
A public relations assistant, a teacher, and a former child star walk into a bar bathroom… on what happens to be all of their twenty-second birthday, and, like many twentysomethings, they become fast tipsy friends. But unlike most twentysomethings, their night of partying ends with an accidental act of magic. Suddenly, Maya, Gabbie, and Delali find themselves thrust into a world of spells and potions with only a mysterious mentor as a guide. This is a story of witches coming not only into their power, but into their friendships, reminiscent of the magical relationship between Elphaba and Glinda.
Voice Of The Ocean by Kelsey Impicciche
Like Wicked, this fairy-tale inspired novel takes a story we know and love and flips it on its head, exploring the gravity-defying power women can have when they let themselves be free. Leave your expectations at the shore and dive headfirst into Celeste’s story of sirens, pirates, and adventure. Celeste, our main character, struggles with her volatile power and changing perception of the world around her and ultimately, this young siren must make the decision between doing what she’s told and what she believes is right. This national bestseller features a strong young girl going against societal expectations in order to follow her heart, her bravery as profound and inspiring as Elphaba’s, as well as a devilishly handsome and mischievous young prince, a kindred spirit to Fiyero.
Unbound by Christy Healy
Is Elphaba a beauty or a beast? It would depend on who in Oz you ask. In this gender-bent reimagining of the classic tale of a monstrous beast and the beauty determined to tame it, Rozlyn waits for her terrible curse to be broken. She seems saved at last when the charming Jamie enters the picture. But as she finds her trust betrayed—and with newer, more sinister threats arising—Rozlyn learns that some curses are better left unbroken… Perfect for fans looking for another twist on a classic tale, this story features a strong, female main character whose strength might be intimidating to some, but beautiful to others.
Confused Girl by Giovanna Silvestre
A Pick for Glinda
Our beloved Glinda is hell-bent on helping out her best friend, Elphaba, because Glinda herself already has all the success she needs—after all, she’s popular! But with Glinda’s perception of Oz and the Wizard shattered, and her best friend gone on her own adventure, it seems Glinda might need a push in the right direction. Confused Girl is the ultimate guide to help women fearlessly create the life of their dreams, and, bonus point, it’s pink! Much to Glinda’s chagrin, it seems there’s a bit more to her dream life than popularity, so this self-help guide is sure to help Glinda through part two of her and Elphaba’s story!
No Gods, No Monsters by Cadwell Turnbull
A Pick for Elphaba
One October morning, Laina gets the news that her brother has been shot and killed by Boston cops. But what looks like a case of police brutality soon reveals something much stranger. Monsters are real. And they want everyone to know it. But are monsters the real threat, or are they on the same side as humans, afraid of something much more sinister? This intense and profound story delves into the prejudice humans hold against people or creatures that look different than them, a sentiment our dear Elphaba is all too familiar with. Named a BEST BOOK OF 2021 by the New York Times, NPR, the New York Public Library, Audible, Tor.com, Book Riot, Library Journal, and Kirkus, and longlisted for the 2022 PEN Open Book Award, this book is perfect for someone reckoning with acceptance of their identity and power.
