The Next Great Paulie Fink

Storytelling figures prominently in The Next Great Paulie Fink. From the beginning, the unexplained disappearance of Paulie Fink serves as the catalyst for storytelling, with characters using stories to remember their friend and make peace with his disappearance. The competition presents unique storytelling opportunities as Caitlyn strives to better understand Paulie through the collective memory. The powers of storytelling are on full display as the Originals, guided by Caitlyn, craft their narratives of the larger-than-life character. Meanwhile, the parables Caitlyn shares with Fuzzy emphasize the moral dimensions of storytelling, shaping perspectives and guiding the listener toward becoming a better version of themselves. 

The thematic exploration of the power and limitations of storytelling becomes increasingly nuanced as the search for the next Paulie unfolds. Gabby’s obsession with Megastar deepens the exploration of storytelling. Her unwavering belief in the constructed narrative of a pop star’s life parallels the community’s initial perception of Paulie, highlighting the impact of dramatized stories on shaping identities. However, as the competition progresses, Gabby’s realization that Megastar’s stories may not be entirely authentic mirrors the students’ evolving understanding of Paulie and his disappearance.

A tension between the constructed legend and the reality of the individual emerges during the climax of the novel.