Book Review: Shopgirls by Holly Blau
As a lifelong Californian with a penchant for nostalgia, Holly Blau’s Shopgirls immediately piqued my interest. The notion of delving into the world of a 1985 Bay Area department store was irresistible, particularly when it invites us into the opulence of I. Magnin’s, a place I frequented in my youth. Though my memories of that time felt as glamorous as the dresses on display, reading Blau’s work offered a different glimpse—a more raw and complex tapestry woven with both fondness and discomfort.
At the heart of Shopgirls is Zip, an intriguing protagonist searching for her identity in a world marked by the boundless consumerism and social upheavals of the mid-eighties. Throughout the novel, she navigates the glitzy yet cutthroat atmosphere of I. Magnin’s, a setting that mirrors the struggles many faced during that time—struggles both personal and societal, such as the emerging AIDS crisis. Blau grapples with heavy themes while protagonist Zip sometimes feels like a muted observer rather than an active participant, which adds a layer of complexity to the narrative.
While I appreciated the book’s dive into the complexities of female camaraderie and the societal expectations of the time, I often found myself grappling with the writing style. Blau’s prose felt awkward at times; there were moments that could have been pruned down to enhance the narrative’s punch. Clocking in at 270 pages, the pacing sometimes dragged, and I couldn’t help but feel a sense of fatigue settling in after a while. There were scenes that struck me as unnecessary, such as the paper doll role-playing escapades between Zip and her co-worker, which felt like they could’ve been left on the cutting room floor—an example of those infamous "insta-skims."
Zip’s journey toward self-discovery is a classic trope, yet it falters in execution. Her character is portrayed more as a passive observer—often a "doormat" or “human camcorder,” as one might say. The ending, meant to represent growth and resolution, rushed in unexpectedly, leaving me perplexed rather than satisfied. This was compounded by a shocking revelation during the third act where she divulges a significant secret so easily, I found myself practically shouting, “Really? REALLY?” at the page.
However, amidst these critiques, Blau never shies away from the challenging narratives of the time—particularly the emergence of AIDS, which casts a shadow over the characters’ lives. The poignant echoes of panic and misinformation during 1985, marked by the death of Rock Hudson, resonated deeply, reminding us that symbolism exists within both high fashion and profound tragedy.
While Shopgirls may not be the page-turner I hoped for, it provides a curious glimpse into an era that shaped many lives, particularly for those who have an affinity for that distinct Bay Area culture. I daresay it would resonate deeply with anyone who has felt the allure of a department store, especially those who have their own stories tied up in its fabric.
If you’re drawn to tales that weave nostalgia with social commentary, or simply enjoy a meandering contemplation of identity amidst the backdrop of a storied shopping experience, Shopgirls might just be the book for you. Though it left me wanting, it nevertheless contributed to a deeper reflection on the complexities of belonging and the evolving tapestry of women’s lives during a pivotal point in history. And sometimes, that’s all you need.
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