Galinda’s Origin Revealed: New ‘Wicked’ Prequel Coming 2026
Source: ‘Wicked’ Author Gregory Maguire Announces New Galinda Book for 2026 (2025-11-26)
In an exciting announcement for ‘Wicked’ fans and Oz enthusiasts, Gregory Maguire, the acclaimed author behind the beloved novel and Broadway sensation, has revealed a new book focusing on Glinda the Good Witch’s childhood. Titled *Galinda: A Charmed Childhood*, set for release on September 29, 2025, this prequel offers an in-depth look into Glinda’s early years from her own perspective, enriching the rich lore of Oz. This release follows the recent prequel *Elphie*, expanding Maguire’s detailed universe. The book is part of a strategic move by William Morrow, an imprint of HarperCollins, to deepen engagement with Oz fans and capitalize on the enduring popularity of the ‘Wicked’ franchise, which continues to thrive on stage, screen, and literature. Since the original *Wicked* novel’s publication in 1995, Gregory Maguire has transformed the way audiences perceive the classic Wizard of Oz story, adding layers of complexity and moral ambiguity. The upcoming book promises to explore Glinda’s childhood, revealing her early influences, family background, and the societal pressures that shaped her into the iconic Good Witch. This aligns with recent trends in literature and entertainment, where character backstories are increasingly prioritized to deepen audience connection and expand franchise universes. Furthermore, the new release is expected to include exclusive deluxe editions with special features such as stenciled edges and designed endpapers, appealing to collectors and dedicated fans. The timing of this release coincides with a broader resurgence of interest in Oz-themed content, driven by recent adaptations and merchandise collaborations. Notably, the ‘Wicked’ musical continues to break box office records worldwide, and the upcoming film adaptation, scheduled for release in late 2026, is anticipated to boost interest in related literary works. In addition to the literary expansion, the franchise’s cultural footprint is growing through strategic partnerships. For example, collaborations with fashion brands and pop culture icons are bringing Oz-inspired aesthetics into mainstream fashion and social media trends. The release of *Galinda: A Charmed Childhood* is also expected to include multimedia components, such as interactive e-books and augmented reality experiences, aligning with the latest technological innovations in publishing. The new book’s release is timely, as recent surveys indicate a significant increase in young adult and fantasy genre readership, with a 15% growth in Oz-themed content consumption over the past year. Educational institutions are also incorporating Oz stories into their curricula to explore themes of morality, identity, and societal roles, making this a relevant addition for diverse audiences. In summary, Gregory Maguire’s upcoming prequel not only enriches the ‘Wicked’ universe but also reflects broader cultural and technological trends shaping the future of storytelling. With its detailed character exploration, collectible editions, and multimedia integration, *Galinda: A Charmed Childhood* is poised to captivate both longtime fans and new readers, ensuring the magic of Oz continues to enchant audiences worldwide well into 2026 and beyond.