Margarettown

What an interesting book... Zevin certainly doesn't adhere to one writing style or genre.  This novel is so different from Memoirs of a Teenage Amnesiac, I cannot believe it's written by the same woman!  While Memoirs was simply fiction, and Elsewhere was clearly fantasy, Margarettown falls somewhere in between.  In fact, I would have trouble classifying this book. To summarize the story, I feel, would give away too much of the plot.  Needless to say, Margarettown had me captivated and I read the book within a few hours.

Two interesting points to ponder that the novel brought up for me.  One, different versions of one's name for various life stages.  I've always been Kristin.  I can't imagine myself with any other name.  Yet, the in this book Margaret is May, Maggie, Marge, Meg... and it works for her.

The other thought that occurred to me is does your name destine you to a certain future.  Margaret has a variety of names for a various life stages, almost predicting personality changes, but Jane is Jane is always a Jane.

Overall, I truly enjoyed this tale and look forward to reading more Gabrielle Zevin creations!