Maguire Fiction Collection Four-Book Set (Wicked; Confessions of an Ugly Stepsister; Lost; Mirror, Mirror) : Book Review

Immerse yourself in Gregory Maguire's captivating Fiction Collection Four-Book Set, where fantasy, fairy tales, and historical fiction collide. This compelling package brings together four enchanting and thought-provoking novels that will leave readers spellbound.

"Confessions of an Ugly Stepsister" takes us back to 17th century Holland, offering a fresh perspective on the Cinderella tale through the eyes of Iris, one of the traditionally "ugly" stepsisters. Maguire skillfully peels back the layers of the familiar story, delving into themes of beauty, art, and the complex dynamics of human relationships.

"Wicked" whisks us away to the Land of Oz, but instead of following Dorothy's adventures, we venture into the life of Elphaba, the misunderstood Wicked Witch of the West. Maguire's vividly imagined world challenges our notions of good and evil, encouraging us to ponder the nature of power and the true meaning of heroism.

"In Mirror Mirror," Maguire puts a dark twist on the well-known story of Snow White. Set in Renaissance Italy, this novel explores themes of jealousy, power, and the lengths one would go to secure personal happiness. Maguire's intricate storytelling transports readers into a realm where alliances shift, motivations remain hidden, and the line between good and evil becomes increasingly blurred.

Lastly, "Lost" takes us on a dystopian adventure with Winnie-the-Pooh into a future where a group of toy animals struggles to survive in New York City after their owner, a young boy named Walt, mysteriously disappears. Maguire's imaginative and insightful writing offers a fresh perspective on beloved characters, exploring themes of friendship, loyalty, and the importance of cherishing one's childhood.

What are readers saying?

The collection of books by author Gregory Maguire has garnered a variety of reviews from readers. Comprised of four novels - "Wicked: The Life and Times of the Wicked Witch of the West," "Son of a Witch," "A Lion Among Men," and "Out of Oz" - these books offer a distinct perspective on the familiar story of the Wizard of Oz.

In "Wicked," Maguire provides a unique and reimagined take on the tale, focusing on the Wicked Witch of the West's perspective. Readers have appreciated the intricately developed and morally ambiguous characters, as well as the thought-provoking themes explored throughout the book. Some have even dubbed it a brilliant work of literature due to its high levels of imagination and rich attention to detail.

Continuing the narrative, "Son of a Witch" dives deeper into the world Maguire has created by following the son of the Wicked Witch. Reviews for this sequel, however, are more mixed, as some readers feel that it lacks the charm and excitement of its predecessor, while others find it to be a worthy continuation of the story.

Moving on to "A Lion Among Men," readers return to the realm of Oz as the story centers around the Cowardly Lion. Overall, reviews for this installment have been generally positive, with readers commending Maguire's seamless integration of diverse characters and their respective narratives. Many appreciate his exploration of complex themes such as identity and loyalty.

Finally, the last book in the collection, "Out of Oz," effectively brings the series to a close. Readers find satisfaction in Maguire's ability to tie up loose ends and provide fitting conclusions for the characters. However, some do mention that the book occasionally feels prolonged.

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