Point of View

The book is written in the first-person point of view of Margaret Simon, the story’s protagonist. Margaret’s conversations with God and her observations about the relationships around her provide readers the most insight into her life. Though Margaret asks God to make her “normal,” readers can relate to Margaret the most out of all of the characters. Her self-consciousness next to her peers, angst about her sexuality, and confusion about the role of religion in her life are feelings with which readers can relate.

Another sympathetic character is the first-year teacher Mr. Benedict. He is new, just like Margaret, and though he is in a position of authority, it takes some time for him to gain confidence in his abilities. Mr. Benedict’s acceptance of Margaret’s lack of religion further shows a parallel between the two characters; readers wonder if Mr. Benedict...