WICKED Author Gregory Maguire Will Release Galinda Prequel Book in 2026

The movie Wicked has been a hit with audiences for over a year, bringing the touching story of Glinda and Elphaba to a fulfilling end. This story, which offers a fresh perspective on good and evil in the world of Oz, began with Gregory Maguire’s 1995 novel, Wicked: The Life and Times of the Wicked Witch of the West. Now, Maguire is releasing a new book that explores the childhood of the “Good” Witch, giving fans a look at her early life.

As reported by Deadline, the novel Galinda: A Charmed Childhood is scheduled to be released on September 29, 2026. It’s a companion story to Gregory Maguire’s Elphie: A Wicked Childhood, which was published in spring 2025. This new prequel will delve into the life of Galinda (also known as Glinda) and reveal the person behind her cheerful exterior.

Here’s the book’s synopsis for more context: 

Galinda, the youngest of four children from a once-wealthy family now facing hardship, is both spoiled and often overlooked. She’s naturally elegant and talented, with a good chance of succeeding in local dance contests, but she’s so focused on these ambitions that she doesn’t notice the growing anger of town merchants who dislike her family’s business dealings. Lost in the typical self-absorption and insecurities of childhood, Galinda lacks shrewdness and doesn’t feel she needs it. However, as her father skillfully navigates challenges from his rivals, Galinda starts to realize she might be able to build a life that’s better than the difficult, though proud, upbringing she’s known.

It’s not really a surprise that the Wicked movies, with Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo, have been huge hits. They’ve brought the world of Oz to a new generation and shown a different perspective on the beloved story.

A third Wicked movie isn’t planned, as the story feels complete. Wicked: For Good provided a satisfying conclusion for Elphaba and Glinda. However, with the original novels and countless fan stories out there, the world of Wicked can continue to live on.

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2025-12-01 19:33