Paul Takes the Form of A Mortal Girl

Set in 1993, Andrea Lawlor’s debut novel follows Paul Polydoris, a lively and well-connected queer individual who secretly transforms into different identities through shapeshifting, navigating a vibrant world filled with music, politics, and intimacy. As Paul travels from Iowa City to San Francisco, the story explores themes of identity, struggle, and pleasure against the backdrop of early 90s queer activism. With its playful, sharp, and inventive storytelling, the novel offers a unique and engaging look at a pivotal time in queer history.