Straight by Boy George – A Fashion and Makeup Book Review

Description

When it comes to celebrity autobiographies Boy George is a bit of an exception. His first one, Take it Like a Man, was honest and raw and unlike most gay autobiographies of the time it was actually funny. His second book, Straight, is a very good read too. He dishes the dirt on his beginnings, excesses and celebrity pals. It is also self reflective and he clearly has some wisdom.

The book is illustrated with colorful pictures of his outrageous costumes. It contains 28 colorful illustrations of 11 magnificent garments together with instructions for flamboyant hats, hairstyles and in the final part illustrated expert tips on make-up. It’s a fun book no self respecting boy george fan can do without.

The book traces the rise of Boy George as a London drag star and then as frontman of Culture Club. It charts his turbulent life which has included jail, appearances on a celebrity jungle show and legal troubles with former members of the band. He talks a lot about his friends, especially the late designer, Sallon who was a sort of Quentin Crisp for the New Romantics. He is also a strong supporter of the LGBT community. The final chapters – which are less angry than some other gay books – show that he has found peace with the past and moved on. He has some great opinions about Madonna, G Michael and David Beckham as well as touching on his love affairs with men of a certain age.