Books to Read After You See A Wrinkle in Time
When I was asked to do a round up of books to read after seeing A Wrinkle in Time, I squealed!
This movie is my most anticipated movie this year! I first read A Wrinkle in Time when I was ten years old, in fourth grade, and it became an instant favorite. I’ve re-read it so many times that I had to buy a second copy, so that my poor original beat-up book (rest in peace) wouldn’t completely crumble.
A Wrinkle in Time inspires my writing, and it definitely had an impact on my most recent book Wizardmatch. So I’ll start there, then branch out to more fabulous middle grade books that are exceptional follow-ups to the movie:
Family and the power of love:
Wizardmatch by Lauren Magaziner (me!)
A Wrinkle in Time and Wizardmatch share my favorite themes: the importance of family and the power of love. The protagonist Lennie and her younger brother Michael travel to an alternate dimension called Netherly to participate in their family’s a once-in-a-lifetime competition for unlimited magical powers. The Pomporromps face struggles (some of them self-inflicted), but they know when to come together and put family first.
P.S. If you enjoy Meg’s determination and grit, I can guarantee you’ll love Lennie.
Strong-minded female protagonists, like Meg:
Hamster Princess by Ursula Vernon
“That’s an unconventional choice,” I can almost hear you saying. But is it really? Harriet Hamsterbone is the most kick-butt character in middle grade. She calls herself invincible; she’ll do anything to achieve her goals, and nothing can stand in her way. There’s strength to Harriet that reminds me of Meg.
The Serpent’s Secret by Sayantani DasGupta
The protagonist in this book is an interdimensional demon slayer, and like Meg Murry, Kiranmala is smart and brave. She won’t let space, time, or rakkhosh demons stop her from saving her parents. Also, this book is filled with string theory and astronomy, sure to delight A Wrinkle in Time fans.
Time, space, or interdimensional travel:
The Incredible Space Raiders from Space! by Wesley King
Characters in this book venture into the Dark Zone to save the universe from evil. Sound familiar? If you love space exploration, adventure, and fighting back darkness, this is your read!
Time Traveling with a Hamster by Ross Welford
“Another hamster book?” you say. “Lauren, do you just love hamsters?” Hear me out: In this book, Al ventures back in time to save his father. Not only does this story have the “wrinkling time” element, but also family is the prevalent theme: something the Murrys would value.
The Chronicles of Chrestomanci by Diana Wynne Jones
This series features multiple parallel universes: twelve different worlds, in fact! I’m certain Meg Murry would want to explore them all. Right from the first book, Charmed Life, the way in which these other dimensions are weaved into the story is rather clever and spellbinding.
Characters who, like Meg, are determined to save a sibling or parent:
The Gauntlet by Karuna Riazi
If you relate to the dynamic of an older sister feeling responsible and protective over a younger brother, this is your book. Farah journeys into a sinister board game to save her little brother Ahmed. That sort of sibling devotion and loyalty is so fitting of Meg and Charles Wallace.
The Science of Breakable Things by Tae Keller
In this book, Natalie’s mother is struggling with depression, and Natalie desperately wants to “save” her with science. But in this story, the science explores botany and an egg drop competition. Trust me: seeing Meg traverse the universe to rescue her father is just as moving and tender as seeing Natalie try to help her mom.
Sci-fi concepts with lots of heart:
The Care and Feeding of a Pet Black Hole by Michelle Cuevas
A pet black hole sounds light and fun, but this sci-fi concept actually brings up deep, poignant themes. If you enjoyed the heart-tugging moments of A Wrinkle in Time, this is the book for you.
When You Reach Me by Rebecca Stead
A roundup of Wrinkle-esque books would not be complete without When You Reach Me. This book directly mentions A Wrinkle in Time, and is the perfect companion. I can’t say much more without spoiling this book…. But if you’re looking for sci-fi concepts to blow your mind, look no further!
Happy reading, Wrinklers!
Lauren Magaziner is a graduate of Hamilton College, and wrote her debut book, The Only Thing Worse Than Witches, while studying abroad in Scotland her junior year. Lauren lives in Brooklyn, New York, and writes full-time.
