Editor’s note: This article contains some spoilers about “A Wrinkle in Time.” If you haven’t yet experienced this classic, consider this your prompt to dive in!
“It was a dark and stormy night…” This haunting opening line initiated my journey into a mesmerizing world when I first read A Wrinkle in Time at the tender age of 9. Growing up, I was a bookish girl, unnoticed and awkward during a time when being nerdy wasn’t celebrated. My love for reading offered me an escape, but it wasn’t until I discovered A Wrinkle in Time that I found a character who felt like a reflection of my own soul. This transformative experience instilled a lifelong passion for reading in me.
Meg Murry, the unlikely protagonist, is often overshadowed by her brothers. With her unruly curls and glasses, she struggles to find her place in a world that seems indifferent. I saw myself in Meg; she was my literary twin.
For over five decades, Meg Murry has served as a beacon of empowerment for girls everywhere. As one of the earliest female leads in science fiction, she embodies intelligence and assertiveness, encouraging girls to embrace their inner nerdiness. Unlike typical fairy tales, there is no transformation into a glamorous swan or a charming prince for Meg. She is the hero of her own narrative.
If you are a parent, I urge you to get this book for your daughter. Right now.
Meg is far from a typical “good girl.” She is fiery, headstrong, and unafraid to voice her feelings. She challenges authority and stands her ground when necessary. Rather than being chastised for her behavior, she learns that her tenacity is her greatest asset, ultimately aiding her in overcoming the challenges she faces.
Have you ordered the book for your daughter yet? Don’t wait! You can finish reading this after you make that purchase!
The plot revolves around Meg, her gifted younger brother Charles Wallace, and their friend Calvin as they search for their missing father, a physicist who has been ensnared by a malevolent force known as IT. This shadowy entity threatens conformity across the universe, including Earth. To rescue him, they must navigate to Camazotz through a “tesseract,” or a wrinkle in time.
As a child, the dystopian world of Camazotz filled me with unease, its unyielding sameness creating a chilling atmosphere. Each household, each child, moved in perfect synchrony, a harrowing reminder of societal pressures I felt throughout my life.
As Meg, Charles Wallace, and Calvin embark on their quest, they find themselves engaged in a cosmic struggle against IT. When Charles Wallace falls under IT’s control, Meg is devastated, having always protected him. In a moment of despair, she learns that her unique strength—her capacity for love—can combat the darkness. At the climactic moment, she uses love to save her brother, declaring her feelings with heartfelt intensity:
“Charles. Charles, I love you. My baby brother who always takes care of me. Come back to me, Charles Wallace, come away from IT, come back, come home. I love you, Charles. Oh, Charles Wallace, I love you.”
In that moment, Meg Murry, a 13-year-old girl, emerges as the ultimate hero.
Before the likes of Katniss Everdeen, Meg Murry stood as a powerful role model. Her defiance and determination are not merely traits to admire; they are the very catalysts for her success. Every girl should know that they can be heroes, and that their individuality is a source of strength. Meg Murry taught me to embrace my quirks and intellect over superficial beauty; like her, I am the author of my own story.
A Wrinkle in Time remains relevant after more than 50 years due to its masterful storytelling and exploration of good versus evil. Blending science fiction with timeless morals, it ultimately conveys that love prevails.
Recently, my son read the ending aloud to me, the part where Meg saves Charles Wallace. I was reminded of my childhood tears during that scene, and I still feel emotional hearing it today. In times like these, the message of unconditional love is crucial. It’s a powerful antidote in our world, often filled with despair.
I learned this lesson at 9 years old, and I often need reminders of its truth.
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Summary
A Wrinkle in Time is an essential read for young girls, showcasing the adventures of Meg Murry, a relatable and empowered heroine. Her journey of self-discovery and the triumph of love over darkness offers timeless lessons on individuality and the strength found in love. This novel remains a vital tool in encouraging girls to embrace their uniqueness and assert their place in the world.