Over the Top: A Raw Journey to Self-Love
Summary:
Who gave Jonathan Van Ness permission to be the radiant human he is today? No one, honey.
The truth is, it hasn't always been gorgeous for this beacon of positivity and joy.
Before he stole our hearts as the grooming and self-care expert on Netflix's hit show Queer Eye, Jonathan was growing up in a small Midwestern town that didn't understand why he was so…over the top. From choreographed carpet figure skating routines to the unavoidable fact that he was Just. So. Gay., Jonathan was an easy target and endured years of judgement, ridicule and trauma—yet none of it crushed his uniquely effervescent spirit.
Over the Top uncovers the pain and passion it took to end up becoming the model of self-love and acceptance that Jonathan is today. In this revelatory, raw, and rambunctious memoir, Jonathan shares never-before-told secrets and reveals sides of himself that the public has never seen. JVN fans may think they know the man behind the stiletto heels, the crop tops, and the iconic sayings, but there's much more to him than meets the Queer Eye.
You'll laugh, you'll cry, and you'll come away knowing that no matter how broken or lost you may be, you're a Kelly Clarkson song, you're strong, and you've got this. (Summary and cover courtesy of goodreads.com)
Review:
My favorite thing about this book was the clear and consistent voice JVN maintained even when discuss the most difficult aspect of his past. Because I do watch “Queer Eye” and follow JVN on Instagram some of the “big reveals” were not complete surprises as there have been allusions and /or references over the last few months. For those who are unfamiliar, I do provide forewarning that JVN had a difficult upbringing and struggled as he grew into the person he is today. He takes a clear-view of why he became the person that he did, including the strengths of weaknesses of those around him. His self-awareness is truly impressive and something I think everyone could learn from.
My main disappointment is that I wish that JVN had spent more time talking about his journey of processing and becoming the joyful person he is today. Instead the book gives an overview of what happened to him, the struggles he faced and how he got where he is today. That being said, I believe his story will be an inspiration for those who are still struggling and open the mind of those who are unaware of many of the struggles those in the LGBTQ+ community face. This is not a happy story per say, but it is about a strong individual willing to be publicly vulnerable in hopes that it will help others.
Warning: Contains mature topics such as substance & sexual abuse as well as sexual content.
Rating: 5 stars!
Who should read it? Anyone looking for more self-awareness and honesty in their life and/or willing to learn about the LGBTQ+ stories.