Purpose
The Illini Union’s One Book, One Campus program hopes to provide a
shared experience for our community. Through reading the same book community members
will have the opportunity to engage in dialogue and explore various themes.
Through lectures, book discussion groups and many other activities we will learn
about ourselves and others while experiencing a unique sense of community.
2007 - 2008 Winner
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Wicked: The Life and Times of the Wicked Witch of the West
By Gregory Maguire
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Review from www.gregorymaguire.com
When Dorothy triumphed over the Wicked Witch of the West in L. Frank
Baum's classic tale, we heard only her side of the story. But what about
her arch-nemesis, the mysterious Witch? Where did she come from? How did
she become so wicked? And what is the true nature of evil?
Gregory Maguire creates a fantasy world so rich and vivid that we will
never look at Oz the same way again. Wicked is about a land where animals
talk and strive to be treated like first-class citizens, Munchkinlanders
seek the comfort of middle-class stability, and the Tin Man becomes a
victim of domestic violence. And then there is the little green-skinned
girl named Elphaba, who will grow up to become the infamous Wicked Witch
of the West, a smart, prickly, and misunderstood creature who challenges
all our preconceived notions about the nature of good and evil.
Critical Praise
"Amazing novel"
— John Updike, in The New Yorker
"Save a place on the shelf between Alice and The Hobbit—that spot is well deserved."
— Kirkus Reviews (starred review)
Check back often to find out the many ways you can be a part of this year’s WICKED line up of events
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Past One Book, One Campus Winners
2006
Dreams from My Father by Barack Obama.
2005
Nickel and Dimed: On (Not) Getting By in America by Barbara Ehrenreich
Look for several kick-off events and a full calendar of related programming.
Pick up a copy of these books and many more at the Illini Union Bookstore for a reduced price and enjoy the read.
If you or your organization would like to plan a related event,
call 244-2357 for more information.