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Review of Pageboy by Elliot Page

Elliot Page is a well-known Academy Award-nominated actor, a producer, and director, born and raised in Halifax, Nova Scotia. Pageboy is his powerful and deeply personal memoir that takes readers on the journey of his life. Through the challenges of Hollywood, fame, love and family, Page candidly shares his struggles with sexuality and gender identity, inviting the reader to join him on a remarkable path of self-discovery and acceptance.

This book was an incredible read. What made it especially interesting was the settings. Page paints beautiful, incredibly detailed pictures and descriptions of each setting he finds himself in throughout his journey. His inclusion of Halifax makes the story feel especially real and close to home, which was not something I was anticipating. Hollywood and Fame in general can feel so removed and sensational, but Elliot Page’s writing transcends those boundaries, allowing readers to resonate with his stories.

While the book tackles difficult topics such as eating disorders, depression, and gender dysphoria, Page navigates them with sensitivity and honesty. Through his candid and open writing style, readers are able to intimately connect with his experiences and feelings as though they are right there beside him during the darkest moments. Page deploys his sense of humour to lighten his experiences. 

Throughout the book, Page’s stories and reflections offer a well-rounded view of his life and the hurdles he faced. The journey to understanding his identity is filled with great struggles, and the reader can feel his joy radiate through the pages as he finally comes to terms with his gender identity after years of internal conflict. It is a great story to not only understand Elliot Page’s life, but also to learn about the valuable, well-rounded perspective of a trans person.

At points, it can be hard for the reader to distinguish what years Elliot is retelling, as each new chapter tells a different story, unchronologically. This, however, does not overshadow the greatness of his story. 

By the end of the book, Page’s growth and self-acceptance become evident, bringing a sense of satisfaction to the reader. Although accepting his queerness and transness marks the end of many struggles, the book reminds us that life’s battles are ongoing. Yet, so much beauty lies in the simplicity of being true to oneself and expressing that truth freely.

With sincerity and authenticity, Page invites us to walk alongside him, sharing both the challenges and triumphs that have shaped his identity. This book is a true testament to the power of resilience and the beauty that comes with embracing one’s true self.

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