A queer, rural midwestern girl makes it big in this delicious deep dive into the career of the fierce, hardworking pop star Chappell Roan. The book is as sparkly, quirky, and authentic as the artist herself, jam-packed with photos and enticing page-high pull quotes like, "I want to see if I can get away with being as ridiculous as I possibly can."
Chappell's story is inspirational for anyone who doesn't fit in or have the connections and resources to follow their dreams. Harbert Day captures the topsy-turvy progression of the star from her awkward, uncomfortable childhood as Kayleigh Rose Amstutz to her "campy," magical life as a musical phenomenon, especially in the LGBTQ+ community. Day writes in a warm, intimate, and informal style, as when she describes some of the upsides to stardom for Chappell: "Perhaps the weirdest thing about becoming famous... was receiving a call from Elton John." Day pays particular attention to the artist's cherished collaborators and inspirations, describing how Chappell discovered drag and burlesque and the way she constantly seeks out the best people to work with, even if they have different styles and approaches. Day doesn't shy away from the star's challenges, including professional setbacks; mental health issues; her fear of judgment from a conservative family, school, and community; and coming to terms with her sexuality.
Chappell Roan: A Vibrant Journey Through the Career and Influence of the Indie-Pop Superstar is pure, empowering indulgence for fans who want far more than tabloid tales of the Gen Z pop star. --Emilie Coulter, freelance writer and editor