Fairy Tales...Made Adult-Friendly

More than Just 'Wicked'

One of today's most widely talked about Broadway productions is "Wicked"; based on the novel by Gregory Maguire, the musical had gained international audiences and a massive group of fans. But what is even more fascinating is the concept behind the book itself, and what Maguire has managed to accomplish by putting a spin on popular children's stories.

The author of more than 30 books (both for children and adults), Maguire has taken a handful of beloved fairy tales and recreated them for the enjoyment of an older audience. In Wicked, Maguire explores beyond the yellow brick road, conjuring up a plot line revolving around the Wicked Witch of the West; he's taken the story even further by opening up tales on the Cowardly Lion, and also suggesting that the Witch herself is - perhaps - a mother.

And the List Goes On...

Step aside, Walt Disney, because Snow White and Cinderella are much more than pretty damsels in distress. Maguire offers us a real and fresh insight into the lives of the famous princesses: their families, their childhoods, and what made them into the characters we know and love.

And what's the REAL story behind the infamous Jack the Ripper? Is it possible that there's a connection between him and Charles Dickens? The author certainly suggests the possibilities. Maguire offers a unique perspective behind them all.

Oh, and by the way...the Tooth Fairy? Yes, there's a story behind him as well, one vastly different than the version we all know...and yes, the Tooth Fairy is a HE.

I had the pleasure of experiencing "Wicked" when it came to my home town. But curiosity got the best of me, so I read more and more. What I found was wonderful and in-depth characters that I grew up loving, but now came to understand and identify with as an adult.

Kudos, Mr. Maguire. Your fairy tales surpass the 'happily ever after'.