A heartfelt reflection on gender identity and finding the path to your true self, in the face of overwhelming internal and external adversity.
Feature image credit: Penguin Books Australia
Elliot Page has always known his true self, and his journey to embracing who he always wanted, needed, and deserved to be is the core of the memoir, Pageboy.
From the cover, it is clear to see that this is a multifaceted title. The statement of gender identification combines with the immediate stereotypical image of the traditional pageboy role: a cute little tuxedoed gentleman who parades down the aisle as part of a bridal party.
To some degree, this is the life that Elliot Page has lived—publicly since he made the dedicated decision to enter the fickle arena of a cinematic career, and privately, for a lot longer. Page is likely best known for the Oscar-nominated role of Juno, in the film of the same name, as well as most recently the role of Vanya/Victor in The Umbrella Academy.
A diminutive figure, Page was pigeonholed – both privately and professionally – into fitting into the gender identity that he was allocated at birth. The resulting impact of this “square peg in a round hole” was decades of gender dysmorphia, psychological and emotional trauma, and unconscionable abuse, from within and without.
Page holds nothing back and pulls no punches, though he does maintain a level of discretion when it comes to previous relationships and co-star incidents where names would be mere titillation to the facts of the acts. There is a level of honesty which is dually heartwarming and heartbreaking.
This is a reflection on a life’s journey, to date, of the love/hate relationship that most (if not all) transgender people experience. It chronicles the self-doubt, self-loathing, internalised and external hate, and judgement. But ultimately, it is about the relief and release that comes from acceptance, first and foremost, of self.
The LGBTQ+ community is proudly and unashamedly becoming more positively vocal and embraced across quality media and engagement platforms, not just for sensationalist and provocation purposes, but to show the underlying truth: They are only human.
Pageboy is championing self-truth, a middle finger to trans-haters and, I truly hope, a lifeline to those who are suffering in silence or otherwise. Many of us want you to be who you truly are; may this book help you to know you’re not alone.
There are insufficient stars to truly reflect the shining qualities of this book – may Elliot Page’s time to come be equally bright.
Reviewed by Glen Christie
The views expressed in this review belong to the author and not Glam Adelaide, its affiliates, or employees.
Distributed by: Penguin Books Australia
Released: June 2023
RRP: $35.00
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