Book Review: Paper Doll: Notes from a Late Bloomer by Dylan Mulvaney
Sometimes, a book finds you right when you need it most, and that was exactly what happened when I picked up Paper Doll: Notes from a Late Bloomer by Dylan Mulvaney. I had seen Dylan’s vibrant presence on social media—her humor spilling over in delightful Instagram stories—yet I had no idea she was a quadruple threat. A comedian! A content creator! A captivating storyteller! This memoir drew me in like a moth to a flame, and let me tell you, it did not disappoint.
At its core, Paper Doll is an exploration of the intricacies of femininity, identity, and the awkward beauty of growing up. Dylan’s journey through girlhood feels both relatable and profoundly unique, as she candidly shares the lessons she has learned in less than a thousand days of living authentically as herself. I was struck by the way she masterfully navigates the complexities of her experience—sometimes feeling like she’s playing a game of emotional MacGyver, trying to grapple with Girlhood’s countless challenges and victories. It’s both hilarious and heart-wrenching, with moments that had me cry-laughing, and others where I found myself in tears, connecting deeply with her reflections.
The writing style is as engaging as it is insightful. Dylan’s voice emerges distinctly, combining humor with a raw honesty that is refreshing in today’s world. She doesn’t shy away from the hard truths or the awkward moments, which is part of what makes this memoir feel like an intimate conversation with a friend. At one point, she writes about the feeling of being perceived—a sentiment many of us can relate to, especially in this social media-driven age. Her honesty about navigating the complexities of being a young woman today is nothing short of inspiring.
And then there’s the timing of this memoir; it felt particularly poignant for me to read it after a disheartening election. Dylan’s words resonate with those who feel unseen or misunderstood, reminding us of the stakes involved when we allow our true selves to shine through. “What if we didn’t have her?” I found myself asking, realizing just how crucial her voice is in today’s narrative landscape. This isn’t just a memoir; it’s a masterclass in peoplehood, a stark reminder of the importance of sharing our stories and the beauty that blossoms from vulnerability.
To anyone who has ever felt like they are “winging it” through life—this book is for you. Dylan’s journey will resonate with those navigating their own paths, making it an excellent choice for young adults, those seeking authenticity, or anyone needing a boost of courage to embrace their true selves.
In closing, I have to make a modest request directed at Dylan: If you ever decide to narrate your own audiobook, I would listen to it on repeat. Your voice deserves to carry these words to the world in all their intended warmth and humor. Thank you, Dylan, for sharing such an important piece of your heart with us. This memoir is a gift we didn’t know we needed, and I can’t wait to see where you take us next.
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