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Reviewed by Luwi Nyakansaila for Readers' Favorite
Dolly by B. B. Calais is a poignant story that follows Dolores, a high school student who tends to keep to herself and lives in silence. The narrative explores her tumultuous inner world and her struggle to find stability amidst trauma, societal expectations, and personal pain. When Cas, a new boy at school, takes an interest in her, Dolores finds herself entangled in a conflict with Liz, the popular girl who appears cheerful but has her own secrets. Dolores faces ridicule and attacks at school, causing her world to turn dark. However, with the support of Julien, a Frenchman who owns a dance studio, Bev, a girl who draws broken things, Cas’s companionship, and a mysterious person who sends her paper cranes, Dolores begins to rediscover herself.
Dolly is a moving story that addresses various teenage issues and trauma. Dolores’s journey is about healing, acceptance, and finding a sense of belonging. Her experiences and narration feel dreamlike, marked by pain and intensity. The story is unpredictable, filled with twists and turns that engage readers. We all carry deep-seated trauma that we may not wish to verbalize, and like Dolores, when we choose to run and hide, it continues to eat away at us and damage our souls. Although Dolores feels like she is drowning, I am glad she has people who see beyond her quiet demeanor and help her find peace. Her journey is not linear; she experiences breakdowns and ostracization, but she perseveres, reminding us of the importance of resilience. B. B. Calais addresses serious issues such as bullying, sexual assault, suicide, and violence, which may be triggering for sensitive readers. Nonetheless, it is an essential read that offers profound lessons about confronting trauma, emphasizing that healing both physical and emotional wounds requires hope, patience, and resilience.
