The Thumbnail Book Reviews
by John Q McDonald --- 11 September 2004
by Madeleine L'Engle
Meg Murry, her little brother Charles Wallace, and their odd friend Calvin are going on a little adventure. In this book, most often described as one for young people or children, there is an overarching theme of youth on the verge of adulthood. Meg and Calvin are older, maybe thirteen, while Charles Wallace is an incredibly precocious five. All of them have weird character features or flaws that make them special in their little world. Early on, Charles encounters Mrs. Whatsit, who helps the kids begin an adventure across time and space to find Meg's father, who disappeared years ago under mysterious circumstances surrounding some scientific experiments. The book moves quickly, as the kids travel to the planet Camazotz, which is enshrouded in darkness and evil, the same kind of evil that is slowly encroaching on Earth. The people there are under the control of IT, which regiments every tiniest aspect of their lives. And IT quickly gains a foothold in the minds of the children. Mrs. Whatsit, Mrs. Who and Mrs. Which are all ethereal beings who encourage the kids to use their talents and even their flaws to solve their dilemmas. The book has a strongly religious tone to it, especially in its latter third. But it is subtle, overall, and is an interesting adventure in growing up. A landmark book in children's literature and intriguing for adult readers as well.