An interesting novel told from an unconventional point of view. Gregory Maguire (author) tells the tale of the Wicked Witch from the classic children's story The Wizard of Oz , and broadens and adds detail to the world of Oz itself. Novel gives an intriguing look into a character we thought we knew, but in reality know nothing about. The history of the Wicked Witch of the West, whose birth name is Elphaba, turns out to be much more compelling than one might at first think. A worthwhile read; it will make you look at The Wizard of Oz in a whole new way.

Also by Gregory Maguire: Confessions of an Ugly Stepsister. A similar idea, only this time it's the retelling of Cinderella, from one of the evil stepsister's view.