Paranormal/Motif

The author uses elements of the paranormal to serve as a motif throughout the novel. The paranormal gives Margaret an opportunity to reconcile how her life ended.

In the early chapters of the novel, Margaret mentions different individuals who lost their lives at the Marshall Summer Naval School. One girl who died from a lightning strike is referred to as “immortal” (22). This sets the expectation for those who die at the camp to have an opportunity to live on after death.

Throughout the novel, Margaret must come to face the fact that she is a ghost. Margaret does not remember being murdered. Rather, Margaret is reluctant to mention the name of the boy she was in love with in the previous summer. As Margaret’s memories become clearer, Margaret understands what she is.

Before accepting her reality, Margaret believes that she is capable of great...