A review by annayareads
Margaret and the Mystery of the Missing Body by Megan Milks

adventurous challenging dark emotional funny hopeful inspiring mysterious sad tense medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.75

TW // eating disorders 

This was a really hard read for me. I've never had an eating disorder, but, like most people in the US I think, I've had to deal with an almost antagonistic relationship with my body. The first half of this book made me feel so uncomfortable. I'm different from Margaret/M in many ways, but I saw reflected all the ways that I was insufferable as a teen. I see my struggles with gender and sexuality. I see my disappointment that my body was not as thin as my classmates. I see the envy for flat stomachs, heterosexuality, and cisness. Thank goodness I've grown past most of these things, but there's still a kind of shame for the cringe of before. Margaret and the Mystery of the Missing Body gives an unflinching view to that cringe, with enough humor and fantasy to keep you going.
The final chapter had me fighting back tears many times. I felt like I was struggling along with Margaret through all her hardship, so reading some brilliant joy felt like a hug. It also felt like a promise, less cheesy than "It Gets Better," but still comforting. I felt the words saying "You'll find yourself. And, within yourself, you will find a love richer and deeper than you could imagine."
Expand filter menu Content Warnings