"Wicked" Author Returns to Oz with New Book on Glinda

Thirty years after penning the bestseller that sparked a cultural phenomenon, American author Gregory Maguire is heading back to the Land of Oz with a prequel novel centered on the early life of Glinda, the Good Witch.

The announcement comes amid the blockbuster success of Wicked: Part 2 and Universal Studios' plans to expand the cinematic universe.

Maguire, whose 1995 novel Wicked inspired the hit Broadway musical and subsequent record-breaking film adaptations, will release Galinda: A Charmed Childhood (tentatively translated as "Glinda: A Charmed Childhood" in Hebrew markets) on September 29, 2026, via HarperCollins. Billed as a companion to last year's Elphie: A Wicked Childhood, a New York Times bestseller exploring the origins of the Wicked Witch of the West, the new book delves into Glinda's formative years.

"As the youngest of four children in a once-privileged family fallen on hard times, Glinda is both pampered and overlooked," reads the book's synopsis. "Her natural grace positions her to excel in regional dance competitions, but these pursuits distract her from noticing the growing resentment among local merchants wary of her family's business tactics.

Immersed in self-satisfaction and childish concerns, Glinda finds no need for cleverness, nor to develop it. Yet, as her father deftly navigates traps set by rivals, Glinda begins to dance toward a life that could elevate her beyond her proud, if impoverished, childhood."

The reveal, reported overnight by U.S. media outlets, aligns with the ongoing triumph of Wicked: Part 2, which hit theaters in Israel and worldwide ten days ago.

The sequel shattered records set by its predecessor, opening to $147 million domestically and $223 million globally. While stars Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo have bid farewell to their roles, Universal's marketing chief Michael Moses told entertainment site Vulture that the studio is already eyeing an expanded Oz universe.

"Given the success of Wicked and its fanbase, we almost have a responsibility to figure out how to grow this world," Moses said. "Have we cracked it yet? No. But things are in motion." Maguire's return to Oz promises to enrich the lore that has captivated audiences across books, stage, and screen, offering fresh insights into one of its most iconic characters.

This story is based on reporting from Kan 11 and will be updated as more details emerge.