Elliot Page’s memoir, “Pageboy,” is a deeply personal and intimate exploration of his life. The Oscar-nominated actor, director, and producer, who publicly came out as queer in 2014 and later as a trans man in 2020, uses this memoir to share his experiences in a raw, unfiltered manner, humanizing his journey. While the book did not meet some pre-release hype, its non-linear narrative, reflecting the “intrinsically nonlinear” nature of queerness, presents a compellingly authentic image of Page’s life.
Page’s memoir is a tapestry of experiences that move from childhood to fame. From commonplace childhood memories to profound incidents of trauma, societal and self-expectation, unrequited crushes, struggles with body dysmorphia, and disordered eating, he paints a vivid picture.
An underlying theme is the adversity he faced growing up, divided between divorced parents, which manifested as incessant challenges from bullying, toxic family dynamics, a stalker, and a consistent lack of support and understanding. However, these difficult moments are thoughtfully interspersed with positive memories and joyful moments, such as his experiences of sustainable living at the Lost Valley, enhancing the narrative’s authenticity and depth.
“Pageboy” not only offers a blend of personal experiences but also cultural insights. Page subtly incorporates fascinating knowledge and niche cultural references into his narrative. Although he respects the privacy of many former lovers, he shares intimate details about some relationships, notably with actor Kate Mara.
One of the significant strengths of the book is Page’s unfiltered portrayal of his life, extending to recounting instances of sexual assault, verbal abuse, and mistreatment. Yet, Page also emphasizes the lifesaving power of gender-affirming care and the importance of community support. Despite his acknowledgment of his privileged access to resources, his candidness serves to foster greater understanding and possibly ease the journeys of others facing similar challenges.
Reading “Pageboy” is akin to hearing a friend’s story, making it a highly relatable and absorbing memoir. By the time Page ends his book, expressing gratitude for the support he’s received, the sincerity and truthfulness of his narrative become more than evident.
This heartfelt exploration of Page’s journey to authenticity, released at the start of Pride Month amidst ongoing challenges facing trans rights, is both affecting and timely. It serves as a highly relevant, well-written memoir that offers a humanizing account of Page’s experiences.
WORDS: Juanita de la Cruz.
IMAGE CREDIT: Flatiron Books.