A lovely addition to the series once you get through the first half

Elphie is a lovely book depicting Elpheba's youth in Quadling Country, from her obsession with Animals to the strained relationship with her family. It is a must to have finished the entire 'Wicked Years' series before starting on Elphie, as the tiny nuances and nodges to Elphaba's future make most sense then.

I have seen many people say the were unable to finish this book, and put it away before finishing the first part. Maguire's style is one to get used to if you haven't read it for a while, and the first part lacks a bit of narrative to hold on to. From the second part onwards, a red thread is introduced that will guide the reader to the end: the memory of Turtle Heart. From there on, the story becomes quite linear and easier to follow.

In my opinion the book is good addition toe the series, but not an essential reading to grasp the story of adult Elphaba and her legacy.