A Real Witch's Guide to Wicked (Coming Soon)

The Alliance of Independent Authors – AuthorMember
The stories in this book reflect the author's recollection of events. Some names, locations, and identifying characteristics have been changed to protect the privacy of those depicted.
By Zebrine Iris Gray, PhD
Join me on an extraordinary journey as I navigate my loves and losses that shape my quest for heart, home, brains, and courage. This memoir blends personal reflection with a scholarly examination of the rich tapestry of Oz—from folklore to the upcoming 2024 film adaptation of Wicked.

Written based on my doctoral dissertation, this work explores:
  • An analysis of L. Frank Baum’s classic book and the beloved 1939 film The Wonderful Wizard of Oz.
  • The enduring cultural impact of book and film, particularly through the four witch archetypes.
  • A fresh perspective on Wicked, both the novel by Gregory Maguire and the acclaimed musical by Stephen Schwartz and Winnie Holzman.
  • My personal immersive Oz fandom experiences - Autumn in Oz in North Carolina, the Oz Museum in Kansas, and an interactive, immersive dramatization.
  • Insights into the long-awaited film adaptation, set to release in November 2024 and the global fandom phenomena.
  • And lots of ways You Can Make Magic Too!
I’ve written and performed some beautiful theatrical rituals and other multi-sensory magical experiences which I’m sharing with you here. Practical magic that you can do (with or without experience - or expensive stuff!)
It’s very exciting to be part of the Oz and Wicked fandom right now in 2024, as the first film of the 2-part musical Wicked musical just hit theatres.

I have interacted with fans around the world, chosen carefully from mountains of merchandise, and seen the controversies circling while excitement grows. 

​Revisiting my scholarly work from more than a decade ago has given me great purpose. I’m proud to bring it to you.
Delve into themes of polyamory, modern paganism, and the complexities of contemporary spirituality, all intertwined with the symbolism of the four (yes, four!) Witches of Oz.

Experience the joy of cosplay, performance studies, ritual scripts, and immersive celebrations that bring these narratives to life.

Embark on a journey that is part memoir, part cultural critique, as we search for meaning, connection, and home through the magical world of Oz.

​Stay tuned for a captivating exploration that will resonate long after the credits roll!

Read the First Chapter...

“I don’t want to talk about it. No politics. No religion. And absolutely nothing about what I’m going to DO with my life.”

My husband Leo laughed as he brought in the suitcases. “So why do we visit your parents?”
​
“Because it’s Christmas. And I love my parents. And they love me. They’ve always, always been there for me. It doesn’t matter which George Bush is president or how many people are in what church or who’s marrying who. We have to figure out how to get along, rainbow-colored sheep along with the rest.”

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