A Wrinkle in Time by Madeleine L'Engle: Study Guide : Book Review

A Wrinkle in Time by Madeleine L'Engle is a captivating and thought-provoking novel that follows the adventure of a young girl named Meg Murry. She embarks on a fantastical journey to rescue her scientist father who has mysteriously disappeared. Alongside her younger brother Charles Wallace and her friend Calvin, Meg travels through time and alternate dimensions, facing the forces of evil head-on. Three enigmatic women known as Mrs. Whatsit, Mrs. Who, and Mrs. Which guide them on their quest.

L'Engle masterfully blends elements of science fiction and fantasy in this novel, introducing readers to mind-bending concepts like "wrinkles in time" and the exploration of different dimensions. While these ideas may challenge readers, L'Engle's accessible and engaging writing style allows them to fully immerse themselves in the story.

One of the highlights of the book is the character development of Meg. As the protagonist, she is relatable and realistic, struggling with internal conflicts throughout her journey. Her growth and transformation as she confronts her fears and discovers her own strengths serve as an inspiration, demonstrating the power of self-belief. The relationship between Meg and her younger brother Charles Wallace adds depth and heart to the narrative.

L'Engle's beautiful and descriptive writing style creates vivid imagery, bringing the various worlds and characters to life. The seamless integration of scientific concepts with magic and mythology provides a unique and compelling reading experience. Additionally, the underlying theme of the battle between light and darkness, good and evil, adds moral depth to the story, elevating it beyond a simple adventure tale.

Overall, A Wrinkle in Time is a timeless and enchanting novel that appeals to readers of all ages. Its engaging characters, imaginative storytelling, and thought-provoking themes have firmly established it as a beloved classic. Whether you enjoy science fiction, fantasy, or simply crave a thrilling adventure, this book is a must-read for your list.

What are readers saying?

A Wrinkle in Time by Madeleine L'Engle has received a diverse range of reviews on Goodreads, but the general consensus is that it is a unique and imaginative book that has captivated readers of all ages. The story follows Meg Murray, her brother Charles Wallace, and their friend Calvin as they embark on a time and space-travel adventure to rescue Meg's father from an evil force.

Many readers adore the book's magical and whimsical elements and praise L'Engle's remarkable ability to seamlessly blend science fiction and fantasy. They appreciate the novel's thought-provoking themes of love, light, and the eternal battle between good and evil. The book resonates equally with both children and adults, with some reviewers expressing how it has remained with them throughout their lives.

Some readers do find the book's complexity and non-linear storytelling a bit challenging to follow. These critics argue that the narrative can be confusing and overwhelming, especially for younger readers. However, even these reviewers acknowledge the book's profound ideas and intriguing concepts, ultimately appreciating it for its ambitious nature.

A significant number of reviewers particularly highlight the strong character development in A Wrinkle in Time. They admire how Meg, the intelligent and relatable protagonist, undergoes significant growth throughout the story. Readers appreciate how Meg's flaws and insecurities make her a believable and endearing character.

However, a few reviewers feel that the character development is lacking, especially for secondary characters like Calvin and Charles Wallace. They argue that these characters are underdeveloped and somewhat one-dimensional, which detracts from their overall enjoyment of the book.

A_Wrinkle_in_Time MadeleineLEngle BookRecommendation