Anthony Ebuka Victor

Margaret Gardiner's 'Damaged Beauty: Joey Superstar' celebrates resilience in style

In an inspiring return to her roots, former Miss South Africa and Miss Universe (1978), Margaret Gardiner has made her literary debut with an enthralling novel that dives deep into the glitzy yet tumultuous realm of the modelling industry. This comes after a challenging battle with face cancer, which she bravely confronted while living in the United States. The launch of her book is not just a personal triumph, it embodies Gardiner's journey of resilience and renewal following her health challenges. Set against the backdrop of 1980s America, the narrative follows the rise and fall of Joey Superstar, a cover model whose life spirals amid the chaos of parties, drugs and the pressures of an industry obsessed with perfection.