Staff Review – House of Hidden Meanings by RuPaul

RuPaul's "The House of Hidden Meanings" – A sashay through life and lessons!

In celebration of Black History Month, it is a fantastic opportunity to engage with works that encapsulate the journey of Black culture and identity, especially from influential figures who have redefined societal standards. One standout in this realm is RuPaul’s mesmerizing book, The House of Hidden Meanings, which I had the opportunity to read over the holiday break.  I am in awe of the journey RuPaul has taken over the decades and I've often wondered how their childhood and earlier experiences helped shape the iconic character we see today.

First things first: RuPaul is the queen who taught us that if you can’t love yourself, how are you gonna love somebody else? And that, is the epitome of his journey - from a small-town boy with big dreams to the icon we all know and love - proving that even the hardest journeys can be approached with positivity and a fabulous sense of humour.

RuPaul discusses his experiences growing up as a person navigating through the complexities of race, gender, and the entertainment industry. Throughout the book, RuPaul emphasizes the importance of self-acceptance and embracing your uniqueness which is hard enough to do, let alone to do it in a time when minorities were still discovering their voices and advocating for their cultural acceptance into society.

The book beautifully intertwines personal anecdotes with universal truths, making powerful statements about resilience and pride.  It invites us to celebrate our differences while understanding the shared history that connects us all.  RuPaul challenges us to confront discrimination and bias, urging readers to celebrate the rich history of Black culture and its profound contributions to society.  As we honor the legacies of remarkable individuals, this book is a call to rejoice in our unique identities while acknowledging the struggles of those who paved the way.   RuPaul's powerful message of self-love and authenticity invites readers to strut their stuff, even if they’re just shuffling to the fridge for a midnight snack.

Whether you’re a long-time fan of RuPaul or new to his work, this book will leave you empowered. If you’re ready to laugh, cry, and maybe even learn a thing or two about the art of being fabulous, scoop up The House of Hidden Meanings.  Remember, darling: life is a runway, and you better werk it! So, go ahead and strut your way to the library - your next read is waiting to sashay into your heart!

Add it to your reading list! The House of Hidden Meanings | SDG Library | BiblioCommons

~Maria