Be Drag Fabulous
How to Live Your Best Drag Queen Life
“Condragulations, darlings; it’s time to be fabulous”: so closes the introduction and begins Be Drag Fabulous, a colorful book brimming with life advice to help you “follow in the heels” of some of the most renowned queens in the biz.
As Ru Paul’s Drag Race sweeps the world, with versions in almost a dozen countries, it is difficult to imagine that the glitz and glamour millions now enjoy for entertainment was once relegated to underground clubs in places hostile to LGBTQ+ existence and self-expression. Despite ongoing social obstacles and personal challenges, the queens whom Be Drag Fabulous draws on for inspiration found ways to exemplify empowerment and determination; the book distills lessons from their lives into bite-sized advice that anyone can apply.
Racism, fatphobia, ageism, and homophobia arise as challenges to the profiled queens’ self-worth, self-esteem, and professional successes, but the narration remains optimistic and hopeful. With wit as sharp as their eyeliner wings, Jinkx Monsoon and Baga Chipz are used to encourage readers to not take themselves, or their haters, too seriously, while Bob the Drag Queen and Alaska serve as lessons on perseverance and sashaying away from self-doubt. Popular phrases in LGBTQ+ and drag communities are given broader meanings, such as an encouragement to always “spill the T” in order to teach rising queens “to be strong, powerful and pay those b**ches no mind.”
Katie Mockridge gives every look its due with illustrations just as bold as the personalities they portray. With a nod to retro patterns and palettes, Mockridge honors every sequin, feather, and wig; Drag Race enthusiasts will recognize iconic ensembles from Latrice Royale, Blu Hydrangea, and Kim Chi, among others.
Funny and poignant, Be Drag Fabulous is a lighthearted guide to becoming the best version of yourself.
Reviewed by
Danielle Ballantyne
Disclosure: This article is not an endorsement, but a review. The publisher of this book provided free copies of the book to have their book reviewed by a professional reviewer. No fee was paid by the publisher for this review. Foreword Reviews only recommends books that we love. Foreword Magazine, Inc. is disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
