Book review: Paper Doll: Notes from a Late Bloomer.

 Dylan Mulvaney's memoir, Paper Doll: Notes from a Late Bloomer, purports to chronicle his journey of self-discovery and transition. However, beneath its glossy veneer lies a narrative that is both superficial and emblematic of the pitfalls of performative identity.

From the outset, Mulvaney's account is steeped in a shallow portrayal of womanhood, reducing the female experience to a series of clichéd milestones and aesthetic choices. His "Days of Girlhood" TikTok series, which she references extensively, is emblematic of this reductionist view, focusing on trivial aspects of femininity rather than engaging with the profound complexities inherent in the female experience.

The memoir's structure, oscillating between journal entries and reflective essays, fails to provide the depth and introspection one might expect from such a personal narrative. Instead, it reads as a curated collection of social media posts, lacking the authenticity and vulnerability that are the hallmarks of compelling memoirs. Mulvaney's writing style, described by some as reminiscent of his online persona, further detracts from the gravity of the subjects he attempts to tackle.

Moreover, Mulvaney's engagement with significant controversies, such as the Bud Light partnership debacle, is handled with a disappointing lack of depth. His reflections are superficial, offering little more than a rehashing of events without meaningful analysis or insight. This approach not only undermines the potential for genuine discourse but also reflects a broader trend of prioritizing personal branding over substantive conversation.

Critically, Paper Doll exemplifies the dangers of conflating visibility with advocacy. While Mulvaney's rise to prominence has undoubtedly brought attention to transgender issues, his memoir underscores a preoccupation with self-presentation and public affirmation. This focus detracts from the broader struggles faced by the transgender community, reducing complex narratives to palatable soundbites for mass consumption.

In essence, Paper Doll: Notes from a Late Bloomer is a testament to the vacuity of performative identity. It offers readers little more than a surface-level exploration of womanhood and transition, wrapped in the trappings of social media culture. For those seeking a profound and authentic account of transgender experiences, this memoir falls woefully short.