“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.” ― Madeleine L’Engle, A Wrinkle in Time
Welcome to my blog about A Wrinkle in Time! In this post, I’ll guide you through Madeleine L’Engle’s classic novel.
It’s a story that’s sparked wonder and curiosity in readers for decades. If you’re not sure whether this book is right for you, you’re in the right place.
I’ll break down the plot and share my personal thoughts. I’ll also highlight what other readers are saying.
And I’ll recommend similar books you might enjoy. My goal is to help you decide if this science fiction fantasy belongs on your reading list.
I first read A Wrinkle in Time as a kid. I came back to it as an adult. Each time, I found something new to love. Its mix of science, imagination, and deep emotion makes it special.
This isn’t just a story about space and time. It’s also about love, courage, and finding your place in the world. Let’s take a look at why this book still matters today.
Plot Summary
A Wrinkle in Time follows Meg Murry, a teenage girl who struggles with school and often feels out of place. Her father, a scientist, has been missing for over a year. She lives with her mother and her brothers, including Charles Wallace, a gifted five-year-old.
Everything changes when they meet Mrs. Whatsit, who introduces them to Mrs. Who and Mrs. Which. These mysterious women can travel across space and time using a method called “tessering,” which folds space like a shortcut.
Meg, Charles Wallace, and their friend Calvin O’Keefe set off on a mission to rescue Mr. Murry. Their journey takes them to strange planets, including Uriel and Camazotz. Camazotz is controlled by a powerful mind called IT, which captures Charles Wallace.
Meg must face this darkness alone. With the help of the Mrs. W’s, she learns that love is her greatest strength. IT cannot control love, and Meg uses it to free her brother.
In the end, the group returns home safely. Meg discovers her courage, the power of love, and the strength that was inside her all along.
My Review
I first read A Wrinkle in Time when I was around Meg’s age, and I was completely pulled in. The mix of science, fantasy, and personal growth felt exciting and different from anything else I’d read.
At the time, the idea of traveling through space and facing dark, mysterious forces really fascinated me. The story stayed with me for years, so much so that when I reread it as an adult, I found even more meaning beneath the adventure.
It’s not just about finding Meg’s father, but it’s about facing fear, being different, and learning to trust yourself.
Madeleine L’Engle’s writing is simple but powerful. She respects young readers and invites them to explore big ideas—like good versus evil, love, and even science.
Some parts do feel a bit dated since the book came out in 1962. The ending also feels rushed, and some science concepts might be tough for younger readers. Still, the message is clear and strong.
The characters are memorable, especially the three Mrs. W’s. Meg is smart, brave, and easy to relate to.
The idea that love is the strongest force of all is something that still feels true. Even now, A Wrinkle in Time has something important to say.
EXPLICIT SPOILER WARNING
SPOILERS AHEAD!
The moment Charles Wallace is taken over by IT is truly unsettling. His personality shifts completely, and L’Engle shows this change in a way that’s quiet but deeply disturbing.
Mr. Murry also isn’t the hero Meg expected. He can’t save Charles and ends up needing Meg’s help instead; the reversal marks a major turning point in Meg’s growth.
The final scene, where Meg defeats IT using love rather than strength or logic, might seem simple—but it fits.
L’Engle prepares us for it throughout the story, where Meg’s fierce, unwavering love for her family becomes her greatest power.
Ratings and Reviews
“We can’t take any credit for our talents. It’s how we use them that counts.” ― Madeleine L’Engle, A Wrinkle in Time
Goodreads Review
GoodReads gave A Wrinkle in Time 3.98/5 stars with the ratings of 1,248,890. Many readers say A Wrinkle in Time got them thinking about space, time, and science at a young age. It makes big ideas feel exciting and easy to imagine.
“What a fun, weird little story!” – Hailey
“A Wrinkle in Time.’ How can I never have read this before??! Have I been living under a rock my entire life?” – Susanne
“I read this as a kid almost 40 years ago and just finished reading it to my 11-year-old son last night. I found that it still holds up.” – Michael Finocchiaro
Amazon Review
Amazon gave A Wrinkle in Time 4.6/5 stars with the ratings of 26,853. Many readers return to A Wrinkle in Time at different points in life because it’s a story that holds meaning whether you’re a child, a parent, or a grandparent.
“A coming-of-age fantasy story that sympathizes with typical teen girl awkwardness and insecurity, highlighting courage, resourcefulness, and the importance of family ties as key to overcoming them.” – New York Post
“An exhilarating experience.” – Kirkus Reviews
“This imaginative book will be read for a long time into the future.” – Children’s Literature
What Authors Have to Say About A Wrinkle in Time?
Many well-known authors have praised A Wrinkle in Time for its lasting impact. Neil Gaiman said it showed him that stories written for kids can still be deep and meaningful. For him, it was a book that truly mattered.
James Patterson has noted how L’Engle’s writing reminds us that we’re part of something bigger. Her story shows that our choices matter and that love is the most powerful force we have.
Author Rebecca Stead, a Newbery Medal winner, admires how L’Engle treated young readers with respect. She proved that children’s books can be thoughtful and emotionally rich without ever talking down to the audience.
Is Reading A Wrinkle in Time Worth It?
“I do not know everything; still, many things I understand.” – Madeleine L’Engle, A Wrinkle in Time
Readers who enjoy strong characters and thoughtful themes will likely connect with A Wrinkle in Time. Meg’s growth from self-doubt to confidence feels real and rewarding.
The book blends science and magic in a clear, easy-to-follow way. At its core, it’s about love, family, and doing what’s right. It also explores big ideas like good vs. evil and staying true to yourself.
Some parts move slowly, while the ending feels a bit rushed. Characters like Calvin could be more developed, and the dialogue may feel dated to modern readers. The world-building is light compared to newer fantasy.
Still, if you enjoy coming-of-age stories with a mix of fantasy and science, this book is a solid choice. It reminds us that what makes us different can also make us strong.
Similar Books If You Enjoyed A Wrinkle in Time
- The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe by C.S. Lewis – A well-loved fantasy where children find a secret world and stand up to dark powers.
- When You Reach Me by Rebecca Stead – A thoughtful story with time travel and friendship, influenced by A Wrinkle in Time.
- The Phantom Tollbooth by Norton Juster – A fun and smart tale that takes readers on a wild trip through a strange land while still asking big questions.
- His Dark Materials by Philip Pullman – For older readers, this series includes other worlds, brave female leads, and a mix of science and big ideas.
- The Giver by Lois Lowry – Looks at sameness and standing out in a tightly controlled world, much like the feel of Camazotz in A Wrinkle in Time.
About the Author
Madeleine L’Engle was an American author best known for her science fiction and fantasy books for young readers.
Born in 1918, she wrote over 60 books, often focusing on themes like science, faith, and human emotion.
She believed kids could understand big ideas and always wrote with honesty and respect for her readers. A Wrinkle in Time is her most well-known book. It won the Newbery Medal in 1963 and remains a favorite today.
L’Engle’s writing has inspired generations. Her mix of imagination, heart, and thoughtful themes continues to connect with readers of all ages.
Some of her other books include
- A Wind in the Door
- A Swiftly Tilting Planet
- Many Waters
- An Acceptable Time
- Meet the Austins
- The Arm of the Starfish
Frequently Asked Questions
What Age Group Is A Wrinkle in Time For?
The book is best for readers aged 10 to 14. However, its deeper themes and emotional story appeal to adults too. The writing is clear and simple, but the ideas about love, courage, and identity add depth.
Why Was A Wrinkle in Time Controversial When Published?
Some religious groups were concerned about its blend of science and spiritual themes. Others thought the book’s portrayal of evil and fear was too strong for young readers. Despite this, it became a lasting and loved story for many.
How Does the Movie Compare to the Book?
The 2018 movie adaptation has strong visuals and creative scenes. But many readers felt it missed the deeper meaning and emotional growth from the book. Some characters and key moments were changed, making the story feel lighter and less layered.
Was A Wrinkle in Time Based on Real Science?
The book includes real scientific ideas like quantum physics and space-time theories. Madeleine L’Engle used them to inspire the story. However, the main concept of “tessering,” or folding space to travel quickly, is fictional and not based on real science.
