Wicked: The Life and Times of the Wicked Witch of the West (Wicked Years, #1)

by Gregory Maguire

“Well then, hello to you,” said the boy. “My name is Master Boq.” “Miss Galinda of the Arduennas of the Uplands.” “And you?” said Boq, turning to Elphaba. “Who are you?” “I’m leaving,” she said. “Fresh dreams, all.” “No, don’t leave,” said Boq. “I think I know you.” “You don’t know me,” said Elphaba, pausing as she turned. “However could you know me?” “You’re Miss Elphie, aren’t you?” “Miss Elphie!” cried Galinda gaily. “How delightful!” “How do you know who I am?” said Elphaba. “Master Boq from Munchkinland? I don’t know you.” “You and I played together when you were tiny,” said Boq. “My father was the mayor of the village you were born in. I think. You were born in Rush Margins, in Wend Hardings, weren’t you? You’re the daughter of the unionist minister, I forget his name.”