Paper Doll by Dylan Mulvaney

Paper Doll: A raw, heartfelt journey of self-discovery, identity, and the unexpected moments that shape us

As my first foray into non-fiction, Paper Doll: Notes from a Late Bloomer was an enriching and unique experience. Having followed Dylan Mulvaney on TikTok since her debut video, "Day 1 of being a girl," it was fascinating to dive deeper into the story behind her viral moments. Dylan has been such a prominent figure in the LGBTQ+ community, and this book gave me a front-row seat to the trials, triumphs, and everything in between.

Listening to the audiobook, which was narrated by Dylan herself, added a personal touch to the experience. It felt like a close friend was recounting their journey, and hearing her voice brought an authenticity and rawness to the narrative. It truly elevated the entire experience, making it even more engaging.

One of the most intriguing parts of the book was getting a "behind-the-scenes" perspective on some of the most significant events in Dylan's career, like Beergate and her interview with President Joe Biden. Hearing Dylan’s firsthand account of those moments I originally witnessed through my phone was eye-opening and made me appreciate the complexity of her experiences.

However, I have to admit that I was somewhat disheartened by some of the revelations in the book. As someone who admired Dylan, learning about her associations with certain figures, like Lady Gaga and Chelsea Handler, both of whom have been outspoken Zionists, left me conflicted. It was even more disappointing to read about her interactions with TikTok influencer Mikayla, who has a history of using anti-Romani slurs without apology. These revelations were jarring, and while I understand that people’s lives are multifaceted, it was tough to reconcile these aspects with the admiration I had for Dylan's journey.

The final chapter, in particular, left me feeling quite reflective. Dylan touches on the challenges that have emerged in the wake of Donald Trump's presidency, and it was sobering to hear her thoughts on the state of the world, especially as they relate to her identity and the broader LGBTQ+ community. It made me question where things stand and how much further we need to go in terms of acceptance and progress.

Overall, Paper Doll was a heartfelt, captivating read that opened my eyes to the complexities behind the person I’ve admired from afar. While the book was not without its difficult moments, I appreciate the vulnerability and courage Dylan shared in telling her story. It’s an honest, unfiltered look at the life of a late bloomer navigating a world that’s often far from kind.

RATING: 4/5