A WRINKLE IN TIME BY MADELEINE L’ENGLE

By Medini Padoshi

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Author : Madeleine L’Engle

Book Name : A WRINKLE IN TIME

If fantasy and space adventure are what make you pick a book, “A Wrinkle in Time” is the perfect one. A Classic published first in 1962, is the story of a teenage girl Meg Murray. Her father, who was a gifted scientist, had been missing for over a year, as he had been captured and taken as a prisoner to another planet named Camazotz. Meg is a sweet, caring but socially awkward girl. Her anxiety and insecurity grew as her brilliant father disappeared.

The plot of the book thickens when a human-looking female Mrs. Whatsit arrives at the Murray house one evening. In reality, however, she is a ‘celestial being’ who has access to Meg’s thoughts. She informs Meg and her mother about a somewhat ‘wrinkle’ in time that is termed a “tesser”. There are two other celestial beings: Mrs. Which, and Mrs. Who, who also help them in this adventure.

The story then mainly focuses on the adventures of Meg – the protagonist, Charles Wallace – her younger brother and Calvin O’Keefe – Meg’s friend. The author exceptionally portrays the lesson of teamwork as the three come together to use their strengths and protect others.
The story becomes overwhelming in between when Charles gets captured by the creatures of the Camazotz. The characters shine bright with their on-the-spot decision-making skills. However, they still have to endure a long journey to save Mr. Murry and the road is full of obstacles.

The book is a must-read for its ability to keep the reader on tenterhooks regarding the sequence of events unfolding and the plot intricacies.

My favorite character is Meg. She captures the reader’s mind with quick thinking and loving nature. Her maturity in risking her life for her father and friends is quite commendable and highlights the importance of family and love.

The reader is intrigued by questions like What if one of everyone is captured? Are the celestial beings really helpful? And most importantly – How will the characters save Mr. Murry? I loved the rush of adrenaline that I experienced while reading the book.

I highly recommend this book to everyone for its high quotient of mystery, suspense, a tinge of humor, and showing that one can overcome one; ‘s fears for a greater cause. I hope that the readers experience the book the same way I did.