Motherhood mayhem

You may have already seen the show Margo’s Got Money Troubles starring Elle Fanning on Apple TV+. Here’s my take on the book that inspired it.

Margo’s Got Money Troubles by Rufi Thorpe is one of those rare novels that manages to be heartfelt, chaotic and surprisingly moving all at once.

At its core, the story follows Margo Millet, a woman trying to navigate life after an unexpected pregnancy. Desperate to make ends meet, Margo begins exploring unconventional ways to support herself, leading her into situations that are often absurd, uncomfortable and completely entertaining.

While the premise may sound heavy, the novel balances its themes with humour and warmth, creating a story that feels both modern and deeply human.

What makes the book so enjoyable is its unpredictability. The characters constantly make choices you do not expect, yet they remain incredibly believable and lovable throughout.

Margo herself is messy, impulsive and often hilariously self-aware, making her impossible not to root for. Even the supporting characters bring a unique charm to the story, particularly the complicated family dynamics that add emotional depth.

Rufi Thorpe has a talent for creating characters who are flawed in realistic ways, which makes the novel feel authentic rather than overly polished.

The writing style is sharp and witty, filled with quirky observations that keep the story engaging from beginning to end.

Despite dealing with serious topics, the novel never feels overly dark. Instead, it captures the strange chaos of life with honesty and compassion. The pacing is excellent, with enough emotional moments to balance out the comedy, making it a genuinely addictive read.

While the show captures the emotional messiness of Margo’s life, the book goes much deeper into her inner thoughts, insecurities and relationships. The novel feels more intimate and reflective, while the series leans a little more into the drama and visual comedy.

Both versions balance heavy themes like money struggles, motherhood and identity, but the book gives readers a stronger connection to Margo’s personal growth.

Overall, if you enjoyed Margo’s Got Money Troubles the show, you’ll probably love the book more.

It adds extra depth, emotion and insight that makes Margo’s story even more compelling.