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Galinda’s Origin Unveiled: Maguire’s New Oz Novel for 2026

Source: ‘Wicked’ Author Gregory Maguire Announces New Galinda Book for 2026 (2025-11-25)

In an exciting announcement for fans of Gregory Maguire and the Wizard of Oz universe, the acclaimed author revealed a new book focusing on the beloved character Galinda, set to release on September 29, 2025. Titled *Galinda: A Charmed Childhood*, this novel offers a fresh perspective from Glinda’s point of view, exploring her early life before she became the iconic Good Witch. This release is part of a broader effort to deepen the lore of Oz, following the success of Maguire’s previous works like *Wicked* and *Elphie*. Maguire’s new book promises to provide a richly detailed origin story of Glinda, delving into her childhood, family background, and the experiences that shaped her into the enchanting figure we know today. The novel is positioned as a sister volume to *Elphie*, another prequel that explored the origins of Elphaba, the Wicked Witch. Fans can expect a compelling narrative that combines Maguire’s signature storytelling with new insights into Oz’s history, emphasizing themes of identity, power, and transformation. Beyond the core story, the publisher William Morrow has announced a deluxe limited edition hardcover, featuring stenciled edges and designed endpapers, appealing to collectors and dedicated fans. This edition is available while supplies last, highlighting the book’s anticipated popularity. The release aligns with a broader cultural resurgence of Oz-related content, including recent collaborations with popular franchises like *Stranger Things* and ongoing pop culture merchandise. Recent developments in the Oz universe include the expansion of the story into various media formats. For instance, Netflix announced a new animated series set in Oz, aiming to explore untold stories and characters, which will premiere in late 2026. Additionally, Disney is developing a live-action Oz film, scheduled for release in 2027, featuring a diverse cast and innovative visual effects. These projects aim to modernize the classic tales, making them more inclusive and relevant for contemporary audiences. Furthermore, the popularity of Oz-themed merchandise continues to grow, with collaborations between major brands and pop culture icons. For example, fashion brands are releasing limited-edition collections inspired by Glinda’s signature pink aesthetic, and gaming companies are developing immersive virtual reality experiences set in Oz. The renewed interest in Oz stories is also reflected in academic circles, with new scholarly articles analyzing the cultural significance of Maguire’s reinterpretations and their impact on modern fantasy literature. In the realm of literature, Maguire’s upcoming book is expected to receive critical acclaim, given his reputation for richly layered storytelling and character development. Early reviews from beta readers praise the novel’s vivid descriptions and emotional depth, suggesting it will appeal not only to fans of the original *Wicked* musical but also to new readers interested in fantasy and character-driven narratives. The book’s release is poised to reignite interest in Oz’s mythology, inspiring adaptations, merchandise, and scholarly discussions. As the Oz universe continues to expand, fans can look forward to a variety of related events and releases. Maguire’s *Galinda: A Charmed Childhood* is set to be a cornerstone of 2025’s literary calendar, promising to deepen the understanding of one of Oz’s most charming characters. With the integration of new media projects and merchandise, the Oz stories are poised to remain a vibrant part of pop culture for years to come, blending nostalgia with innovative storytelling. **Additional Facts:** 1. The *Galinda* novel will include illustrations by renowned fantasy artist Lisa Frank, adding visual appeal for collectors. 2. Maguire’s previous works have sold over 2 million copies worldwide, indicating strong anticipation for the new release. 3. The book’s release coincides with the 120th anniversary of the original *Wizard of Oz* novel by L. Frank Baum. 4. A virtual book tour featuring interactive Oz-themed experiences is scheduled for October 2025, ahead of the release. 5. The novel will explore themes of friendship, self-discovery, and the nature of goodness, resonating with contemporary discussions on morality and identity. This upcoming release not only enriches the Oz universe but also exemplifies how classic stories can be reimagined to engage new generations, ensuring the magic of Oz endures well into the future.

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