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A Wrinkle In Time

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 1962

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Book Brief

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Madeleine L'Engle

A Wrinkle In Time

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 1962
Book Details
Pages

256

Format

Novel • Fiction

Publication Year

1962

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

10-14 years

Lexile Level

740L

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Super Short Summary

A Wrinkle in Time by Madeleine L'Engle follows Meg Murry, her younger brother Charles Wallace, and Calvin O’Keefe on an interstellar journey to rescue Meg's father from a malevolent force known as IT, learning about the power of love and personal strength along the way.

Fantastical

Adventurous

Inspirational

Mysterious

Heartwarming

Reviews & Readership

4.2

1,252,766 ratings

71%

Loved it

19%

Mixed feelings

9%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Madeleine L'Engle's A Wrinkle In Time is praised for its imaginative plot, compelling characters, and blend of science and fantasy. Critics highlight its emotional depth and originality. However, some find its pacing uneven and its scientific explanations occasionally confusing. Overall, it's considered a seminal work in children's literature.

Who should read this

Who Should Read A Wrinkle In Time?

Readers who would enjoy Madeleine L'Engle's A Wrinkle In Time are likely fans of imaginative, character-driven stories that blend science fiction and fantasy. Comparable to C.S. Lewis's The Chronicles of Narnia and J.K. Rowling's Harry Potter series, this book appeals to young adults and adults who appreciate themes of courage and the triumph of good over evil.

4.2

1,252,766 ratings

71%

Loved it

19%

Mixed feelings

9%

Not a fan

Character List

Meg Murry

The protagonist of *A Wrinkle in Time*, Meg suffers from low self-esteem and struggles with feelings of inadequacy. She longs for her missing father to return, believing it will fix her problems.

Meg’s youngest brother, gifted with incredible intelligence and mental abilities. He is both an ally and a source of difficulty for Meg due to his unique nature.

Meg’s supportive friend who joins the quest to find Mr. Murry. Calvin is optimistic and excels in communication, providing balance to Meg’s character.

One of the three mysterious women who guide Meg and her friends. Initially taking the form of an old woman, she comforts and encourages Meg throughout their journey.

A mystical character who often communicates through quotes, assigned to help Calvin. She wears large spectacles and assists Mrs. Whatsit and Mrs. Which.

The oldest and most powerful of the three women, she is tasked with overseeing Charles Wallace. She rarely fully materializes and communicates in a logical manner.

Meg’s father, whose disappearance drives Meg to embark on the rescue mission. His character symbolizes the limits of human understanding and ambition.

The antagonist of *A Wrinkle in Time*, a powerful entity controlling the planet Camazotz through fear and hatred.

Meg’s mother, who represents the grace and composure Meg envies. She quietly supports her family while dealing with her husband’s absence.

A foreign creature residing on the planet Ixchel who cares for Meg after she is injured. Aunt Beast symbolizes the limited scope of human perception.

A minion of IT, embodying the oppressive and dystopian control exerted over Camazotz.

A jovial character who provides visions of the universe to Meg and her friends. Represents balance and hope.

Meg’s school principal who challenges her idealized perception of her father, pushing her towards independence.

Meg’s twin brothers who are portrayed as the "normal" members of the family, contrasting with the more eccentric family members involved in the central conflict.

Book Details
Pages

256

Format

Novel • Fiction

Publication Year

1962

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

10-14 years

Lexile Level

740L

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