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A Wrinkle in Time: Summary

Everything you need to know about Madeleine L'Engle's A Wrinkle in Time, in 1 paragraph.
An illustration of a reader enjoying A Wrinkle in Time by Madeleine L'Engle in a cosy interior
A reader enjoying A Wrinkle in Time by Madeleine L'Engle
A Wrinkle in Time is a science fiction novel written by Madeleine L'Engle. It follows the story of Meg Murry, her younger brother Charles Wallace, and their friend Calvin O'Keefe as they travel through time and space in order to rescue Meg and Charles Wallace's father from the evil forces of the universe. Along the way, they encounter a variety of creatures, including Mrs. Whatsit, Mrs. Who, and Mrs. Which, who help them on their quest. They ultimately triumph over evil and return home safely with their father.

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What is A Wrinkle in Time about?

A Wrinkle in Time is an award-winning science fiction novel by Madeleine L'Engle. It tells the story of Meg Murry, a young girl who embarks on a journey through space and time with her younger brother Charles Wallace and their new friend Calvin O'Keefe to save her father from the evil forces of the universe. The key themes in A Wrinkle in Time are: 1) Good vs. Evil: Meg and her friends must battle against the forces of darkness represented by the disembodied brain known as IT. 2) Friendship: The three children form a strong bond that helps them face their challenges. 3) Love: Meg's love for her family drives her to keep going despite dangerous obstacles. 4) Courage: Meg discovers the strength within herself to fight for what she believes in. 5) Self-discovery: Meg learns more about herself as she embarks on her quest, gaining confidence and maturity along the way.

A Wrinkle in Time: Book Club Questions

  1. What themes are explored in this book?
  2. How do the characters of Meg, Charles Wallace, and Calvin develop throughout the story?
  3. What does the tesseract symbolize?
  4. How does Mrs. Whatsit represent an unconventional female role model?
  5. What is the significance of the darkness in this novel?
  6. How does A Wrinkle in Time explore the concept of individuality?
  7. What is the importance of friendship and family in this book?
  8. How does A Wrinkle in Time explore ideas of good and evil?
  9. What is the significance of the Man with Red Eyes?
  10. What lessons can readers learn from A Wrinkle in Time?

What to say about A Wrinkle in Time

  • A Wrinkle in Time is a classic that has stood the test of time, showcasing timeless themes and messages.
  • Meg's journey of self-discovery and her ability to conquer her fears are truly inspiring.
  • The symbolism of the tesseract as a tool for time travel is an ingenious concept.
  • The characters are wonderfully diverse and heartwarming, providing a sense of relatability for readers.
  • The novel offers an intriguing exploration into the science fiction genre, while still managing to remain accessible for younger readers.
  • A Wrinkle in Time is an exceptional example of how fantasy can be used to tackle real-world issues.
  • The book masterfully conveys the idea that love can be a powerful force capable of overcoming even the darkest of obstacles.
  • I appreciate the way in which Madeleine L'Engle was able to capture the complexity of family dynamics in this story.
  • A Wrinkle in Time emphasizes the importance of courage and perseverance, reminding us all that anything is possible if we never give up on our dreams.
  • I believe A Wrinkle in Time presents an insightful look at how we should strive to embrace our uniqueness rather than attempting to conform to societal expectations.

Top 5 Quotes from A Wrinkle in Time

  1. "It was a dark and stormy night."
  2. "Life, with its rules, its obligations, and its freedoms, is like a sonnet: You're given the form, but you have to write the sonnet yourself."
  3. "Maybe we could all get a big enough push together so that everyone else would get a push too."
  4. "Like and Equal are not the same thing at all."
  5. "Love. That was the only way out."

Adaptations of A Wrinkle in Time

1. A Wrinkle in Time (2018) - Feature film released by Disney starring Oprah Winfrey, Reese Witherspoon, Mindy Kaling and Storm Reid. 2. A Wrinkle in Time (2003) - Television film adaptation produced by the Hallmark Channel starring Katie Stuart, Gregory Smith, and Alfre Woodard. 3. A Wrinkle in Time: The Graphic Novel (2017) - An illustrated adaptation of the novel released with artwork by Hope Larson. 4. A Wrinkle in Time Radio Play (2005) - Audio drama adaptation produced for BBC Radio 4 starring Benedict Cumberbatch and David Tennant. 5. A Wrinkle in Time: The Musical (2019) - Stage musical based on the novel written by John Glore and Jeanine Tesori, which premiered at the Alliance Theatre in Atlanta, Georgia. 6. A Wrinkle in Time Podcast (2020) - Audio podcast adaptation of the novel featuring a full cast of voice actors and original music composed by Michael Hearst.

Other books by Madeleine L'Engle

  • A Wind in the Door
  • A Swiftly Tilting Planet
  • Many Waters
  • An Acceptable Time
  • Dragons in the Waters
  • A House Like a Lotus
  • And Both Were Young
  • The Arm of the Starfish
  • Camilla
  • The Moon by Night
  • The Joys of Love
  • Meet the Austins
  • The Polly O'Keefe Series
  • Troubling a Star
  • Austin Family Series
  • A Ring of Endless Light
  • Daughter of Deep Silence
  • A Severed Wasp
  • Ilsa
  • Camilla Dickinson

Did you know?

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A Wrinkle in Time was the first science fiction novel to win the Newbery Medal, which is awarded each year to the most distinguished contribution to American literature for children.