Gregory Maguire surely had no idea that his novel WICKED would become a global phenomenon. Not only did it spawn a handful of successful sequels, it also was the impetus for the Broadway musical of the same name that has thrilled and inspired millions of theatergoers.

Maguire’s latest novel, THE ORACLE OF MARACOOR, is the second installment in his trilogy, Another Day, which kicked off last year with THE BRIDES OF MARACOOR. It marks the return of Rain, the green-skinned granddaughter of Elphaba (aka the Wicked Witch of the West).

"Gregory Maguire once again has created an awe-inspiring work of fantasy that takes on the Oz stories and improves on them through expansion of new characters, places and ideas."

The strange land of Maracoor exists across the sea from Oz, a place to which Rain longs to return. To do that, she must escape Maracoor, which is currently under threat of attack. Additionally, she is in league with Cossy, a 10-year-old felon convicted of murder. Rain and Cossy are able to break out of prison with the aid of a few flying monkeys, the first of which was created by Elphaba.

On the run and seeking answers, the girls have been told that they will require the assistance of the great soothsayer known as the Oracle of Maracoor. Finding this individual will not be easy, especially in an unknown land. They will need a myriad of people and fantastical creatures guiding them in much the same way as Dorothy’s trio of colleagues once upon a time led her on a journey to the Emerald City to meet the Wizard of Oz, who also might be able to help.

Cossy is scrappy, but Rain has forgotten much of her witch upbringing. She realizes that it will take her reigniting her broom powers and reclaiming her identity if they are to be successful in their mission. They are accompanied by everything from a flying goose called Iskinaary to wolf-like man beasts, owls with human faces and a series of humans from Maracoor. One advantage Rain does have is the gift that she was given at the start of her journey, the Fist of Mara, an arcane artifact that has immeasurable power and makes those around it barren.

Before this epic adventure is over, Rain finally will realize her place as the Witch of Maracoor, which happens to be the title of the saga’s concluding entry. Gregory Maguire once again has created an awe-inspiring work of fantasy that takes on the Oz stories and improves on them through expansion of new characters, places and ideas. It all makes for an engaging read and welcome time spent in a place that feels simultaneously strange and eerily familiar.