Topic > A review of A Wrinkle In Time by Madeleine L'Engle

A Wrinkle In Time, by Madeleine L'Engle is no ordinary novel as it beautifully blends science fiction and fantasy. This is a plot-driven novel with ever-present obstacles when trying to complete a task. The conflict that occurs in this novel is person versus self and person versus supernatural. The details and images throughout the book were amazing. It offers a powerful message that your differences and fallibilities should be praised and celebrated, not criticized. L'Engle does a great job using effective techniques to transport the reader through the journey of time and space. The countless themes of this novel create a storm of emotions in the reader that opens many conclusions not only to children, but to adults. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an Original Essay Engle's novel overall was a very well-written, adventurous, and lesson-filled experience. As a reader I learned various things, including the nature of beauty. Contrast the theme of external beauty with that of internal essence. Meg believes that her outward appearance, such as having braces, glasses and knotted hair, does not make her popular and therefore her life is more difficult. However, L’Engle always reminds the reader that people are more than what they seem and states, “No, Meg, but people are more than just looks. Charles Wallace's diversity is not physical, it is substantial." This really struck me as I was reading the book because I feel like most people can relate to this. Many people experience bullying, have low self-esteem, and simply believe that they are not good enough because of the way people tend to judge if others do not fit society's standards and trends. They are quick to judge a book by its cover if you don't have perfect teeth, straight silky hair and perfect eyesight or whatever the case may be. That's why it's such a powerful message for the reader because it evokes something inside that turns out to be something very positive. Meg is also worried about Charles Wallace because he seems normal, but has a particular way of speaking and believes she is being targeted because of her outward appearance. Wallace Wallace would be too because of his quirks that other kids his age don't have. “No, Meg, but people are more than just their appearance. Charles Wallace's diversity is not physical, it is substantial." Mrs. Murry reminds Meg that Charles' inner "essence" is what makes him special. His outward way of speaking may not help win a friend, but his special character is what helps him carry out their mission over time. This all falls under the Identity and Appearance section and I feel like a lot of people hide their true identity like Calvin to fit in while others get picked on for being quirky like Meg and Charles Wallace; they hide their true intelligence and self so as not to punish their individuality since in this novel everyone's identity consists of a group hierarchy in which they play a role. A careful examination of the powerful messages of this novel clearly shows the enormous impact it has had not only on children, but on adult audiences. L'Engle was able to strategically convey the purpose and different messages throughout the book. The strongest form of communication is love in this novel and it shows when “Calvin put a strong hand on Meg's elbow and Fort pressed against her leg. The happiness at their concern was so strong in her that panic fled, and she followed Charles Wallace into the dark recesses of the house.