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Book details

Print length

288 pages
Language

English
Publisher

HarperOne
Publication date

September 24, 2019
Dimensions

6 x 0.97 x 9 inches
ISBN-10

0062906372
ISBN-13

978-0062906373
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Book overview

NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER

NPR'S FAVORITE BOOKS OF THE YEAR

INDIE BESTSELLER

GOODREADS CHOICE AWARD WINNER: BEST MEMOIR & AUTOBIOGRAPHY

A laugh-and-cry-out-loud memoir from the beloved star of Netflix’s Queer Eye, Jonathan Van Ness

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.

Review

"There is plenty to laugh at in the ways “Queer Eye”’s grooming expert frames his story, but it’s the battles he’s waged against the darker corners of his soul to become the bright light we know today that provide the necessary context for this book to shine." — The New York Times

About the Author

Jonathan Van Ness is a bestselling author, podcaster, comedian, and television personality. He is known for his work as the beauty expert on the Netflix series Queer Eye, for hosting the Getting Curious with Jonathan Van Ness podcast, and for the web series parody Gay of Thrones.

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Jonathan Van Ness

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Jonathan Van Ness is a Critics' Choice Award winning, Emmy nominated television personality, podcaster, and hairstylist to the stars. He can be seen starring on Netflix’s Emmy Award-winning reboot series “Queer Eye,” where he shines as the show’s groomer, hair guru and self-care advocate. In addition to “Queer Eye,” Jonathan stars on the Emmy-nominated series “Gay of Thrones,” (Funny or Die) a witty social commentary series recapping HBO’s “Game of Thrones.” Launched in 2013, the series just finished its eighth and final season, and garnered Emmy nominations in 2016 and 2018 for ‘Outstanding Short Form Variety Series.’ Jonathan also continues to work on his passion project, his podcast “Getting Curious,” a weekly exploration of all the things Jonathan is curious about. The podcast was listed as one of the Top Podcasts of 2018 by Time Magazine, and won the iHeart Radio Award for Best LGBTQ Podcast. 2018 was a breakthrough year for Jonathan, who realized two new passions - for the arts of stand-up comedy and figure skating. Jonathan is currently on his first worldwide comedy tour “Jonathan Van Ness: Road to Beijing” where he is going for comedy gold. Most recently, Jonathan announced that his revelatory memoir, OVER THE TOP, will be released in September 2019.

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From the Publisher

Product information

Publisher

‎HarperOne; First Edition (September 24, 2019)

Language

‎English

Hardcover

‎288 pages

ISBN-10

‎0062906372

ISBN-13

‎978-0062906373

Item Weight

‎15.2 ounces

Dimensions

‎6 x 0.97 x 9 inches

Best Sellers Rank

#278,156 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

#455 in Television Performer Biographies

#2,547 in Actor & Entertainer Biographies

#8,851 in Memoirs (Books)

Customer Reviews

4.7 out of 5 stars 7,882Reviews

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Customer reviews

4.7 out of 5

7,882 global ratings

Customers say

Customers find the book honest, raw, and brave. They also describe the emotional content as insightful, heartbreaking, inspiring, and fabulous. Readers describe the characters as very real and gifted. They find the reading experience amazing and the emotional tone full of heart and soul. They describe the writing style as lovely and the quality as beautifully written.

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95Customers mention

95Positive

0Negative

Customers find the book an amazing read.

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"...He is, of course, OTT AF in all the ways, what else? And irrepressibly loquacious, endearingly goofy, often hilarious, gloriously queer & nonbinary,..." Read more

"...Maybe next time?Overall, this book was great! I can’t remember the last time I sat and read a book all the way through in one go...." Read more

"This book was wonderful and full of heart and soul. Johnathan's adorable personality shines through every page, and is truly a joy to read...." Read more

"JVN kills it with his story. Such a great read that inspired me to accept and love myself - faults and all." Read more

82Customers mention

82Positive

0Negative

Customers find the book full of heart and soul, insightful, inspiring, affirming, brave, raw, and self-soothing. They also describe the author as sweet, genuine, loving, smart, and funny.

AI-generated from the text of customer reviews

"...How JVN approached every. Single. Topic. Was so well done and empathic to his readers...." Read more

"This book was wonderful and full of heart and soul. Johnathan's adorable personality shines through every page, and is truly a joy to read...." Read more

"JVN is a real character. Compassionate, funny and so on." Read more

"This book is heart wrenching and heartwarming and hysterical (and a little triggering for some of us with similar experiences) all at the same time..." Read more

59Customers mention

59Positive

0Negative

Customers find the book honest, raw, and brave. They also say it's relatable, funny, and inspirational.

AI-generated from the text of customer reviews

"I loved the level of depth and honesty. The ability to really tell the whole truth. Even when it was not easy." Read more

"...way applies the humor we associate with him, but also was very open, honest. Just very unapologetically him...." Read more

"...The transparency, unabashed IDGAFery and raw, intelligent humor will have me battling whether to lend this out to person after person or to save it..." Read more

"...I would recommend this incredibly truthful, and sometimes incredibly sad, biography to anyone who would like to see the inside of a beautiful soul." Read more

55Customers mention

51Positive

4Negative

Customers find the writing quality beautiful, descriptive, and clear. They also say the author shares an amazing life of trials, ups, downs, and triumph. Customers also say it's an incredible journey that the author brings us on.

AI-generated from the text of customer reviews

"...He was just too much. He was loud, bold, and invaded personal space. I just couldn’t wrap my head around it...." Read more

"...His story is real and relatable and I know a lot more about ice skating and Olympics now...." Read more

"...Not only is JVN's writing so accessibly real and relatable but his cerebral chops really shine through. She is SMART honey!..." Read more

"...I freaking loved this book so much, it was so relatable and hit close to home in several parts...." Read more

49Customers mention

49Positive

0Negative

Customers find the book enjoyable, honest, and humorous. They also say it paints a humorous and complex image of humanity.

AI-generated from the text of customer reviews

"...And irrepressibly loquacious, endearingly goofy, often hilarious, gloriously queer & nonbinary, and just, in every other way, unapologetically his..." Read more

"JVN is a real character. Compassionate, funny and so on." Read more

"This book is heart wrenching and heartwarming and hysterical (and a little triggering for some of us with similar experiences) all at the same time..." Read more

"...The transparency, unabashed IDGAFery and raw, intelligent humor will have me battling whether to lend this out to person after person or to save it..." Read more

34Customers mention

34Positive

0Negative

Customers find the writing style lovely, great, and unique. They also say the story is relatable and full of hope, love, and kindness.

AI-generated from the text of customer reviews

"...Imperfection is beautiful. To anyone who has ever felt broken beyond repair, this is for you...." Read more

"...I love the cover of the book and the script is nice and large...." Read more

"...choices were a little difficult to navigate, but overall it was a very real look into the very real life of what seems like a complex and genuinely..." Read more

"...I appreciate so much that this absolutely gorgeous human and one of my personal gay idols was able and willing to bear his soul to us and the rest..." Read more

15Customers mention

15Positive

0Negative

Customers find the characters in the book very real, gifted, and perfectly imperfect. They also say the book is full of hope, love, and kindness.

AI-generated from the text of customer reviews

"...Johnathan's adorable personality shines through every page, and is truly a joy to read...." Read more

"JVN is a real character. Compassionate, funny and so on." Read more

"...Just very unapologetically him. I'm so happy that this was the non fiction I picked up this year!" Read more

"How can you not love something written by JVN? His personality is infectious and his like ability factor is off the charts!..." Read more

15Customers mention

15Positive

0Negative

Customers find the emotional content insightful, humble, heartbreaking, inspiring, and fabulous. They also say the book does a good job of expressing honesty, pain, and triumph.

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"...I read it in two sittings. It was funny and heart breaking...." Read more

"...A really poignant, funny and definitely heartbreaking at times book, you will come away from this experience better for having known...." Read more

"This memoir is at once so personal, honest, humble, joyful, tragic, hilariously funny, fast moving and gripping to the very end...." Read more

"This was well written, thoughtful and it made me cry - very rare for any book to do that. JVN is a national treasure." Read more

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Top reviews from the United States

Pam I Am

Verified Purchase

Honest, powerful message of self-acceptance

Reviewed in the United States on September 29, 2019

JVN tells his story in a rambling, sometimes slightly uneven way, but I not only really enjoyed this, I got a lot out of it on a personal level, in a serious kind of way. He is, of course, OTT AF in all the ways, what else? And irrepressibly loquacious,... See more

JVN tells his story in a rambling, sometimes slightly uneven way, but I not only really enjoyed this, I got a lot out of it on a personal level, in a serious kind of way.

He is, of course, OTT AF in all the ways, what else? And irrepressibly loquacious, endearingly goofy, often hilarious, gloriously queer & nonbinary, and just, in every other way, unapologetically his own beautiful self. And I appreciate the way he doesn't present a curated version of himself here, "the sweetheart of Queereye", but reveals himself very much "warts and all", i.e., as a human being with weaknesses & flaws, who has had dark times, who lives with the effects of trauma and a chronic physical condition, who has made mistakes; as someone who has been and will continue to be a mess at times - as will we all. And that's not only brave. It makes it all the more powerful, his message of self-acceptance as embodied by this book. He really, *really* gets it about that.

Lots of his story resonated, though my life on the face of it has been nothing like his. But that's kinda the thing with resonance, it's not the specific details that matter.

I think this is my favorite quote:

"I found a lot of my healing when I realized my suffering didn't undo my joy."

That is, wow, yeah, *such* an important truth and one not easily arrived at. You can read or think and even believe words like that, and still not really get it. Until you do. And then it's life changing.

The dedication of this book makes a perfect recc:

"Imperfection is beautiful. To anyone who has ever felt broken beyond repair, this is for you. If you've ever been excluded or told you were not enough, know that you are enough, and beautifully complete."

6 people found this helpful

Helpful

FamilyofLove

Verified Purchase

Completely Relatable and Beautiful

Reviewed in the United States on September 25, 2019

I preordered this book and received it this afternoon. After I put my babies to bed I sat down and read this in one shot. Yes, it’s that interesting. Let me start by saying when I first started watching Queer Eye I did not like Jonathan. He was just too much. He... See more

I preordered this book and received it this afternoon. After I put my babies to bed I sat down and read this in one shot. Yes, it’s that interesting.

Let me start by saying when I first started watching Queer Eye I did not like Jonathan. He was just too much. He was loud, bold, and invaded personal space. I just couldn’t wrap my head around it. The more I watched and learned from each episode the more I realized I wasn’t being my authentic self. I became a shell of who I once was. A loud, bold, invading people’s person space, fierce woman. I couldn’t watch JVN because he was who I wanted to be, yet didn’t realize. When this self awareness clicked I became a huge fan and supporter. I knew I had to buy his book.

I had a misconception that this was going to be a fun, light, happy for lucky book as JVN is often presented as. My sister informed me that there was some thick subjects in it. I tend not to read things that could trigger me. I was tempted to not read this book, but when I read the sensitivity warning I was so thankful! I wanted to include a photo of the warning so if you too are worried about this you can see what it says. Any sensitive matter was gracefully and tactfully done. I’m really appreciative that JVN took this approach and was aware that his book could harm others if it wasn’t handled properly.

How JVN approached every. Single. Topic. Was so well done and empathic to his readers. This book isn’t just for one “type” of person it’s really a relatable book for everyone. It’s a book that celebrates who you are and also teaches you to forgive yourself.

If you’re like me and thought that book was going to be light, fluffy, and funny, then you’ll be in for a surprise. Yet, it’s a great surprise. JVN peels himself back layer by layer in each chapter until he gets to the core. As he put it in the book, “a perfectly imperfect mess”. So perfect that it made me love him more. Yes JVN, I love you even though you've shown the other sides to yourself.

I love the cover of the book and the script is nice and large. The one thing that would really have put this book “over the top” would be personal photos. The Bill Clinton report was sweet, but I would’ve loved to see some family photos. Maybe next time?

Overall, this book was great! I can’t remember the last time I sat and read a book all the way through in one go. This book leaves you wanting more and I look forward to reading about the next chapterS of JVNs life in the future. I highly recommend this book!

179 people found this helpful

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Amazon Customer

Verified Purchase

Love him

Reviewed in the United States on February 6, 2022

This book was wonderful and full of heart and soul. Johnathan's adorable personality shines through every page, and is truly a joy to read. His story is real and relatable and I know a lot more about ice skating and Olympics now. If you need a reminder that it's okay to be... See more

This book was wonderful and full of heart and soul. Johnathan's adorable personality shines through every page, and is truly a joy to read. His story is real and relatable and I know a lot more about ice skating and Olympics now. If you need a reminder that it's okay to be human, and that you are worthy of love READ THIS BOOK. I'm forever a fan of this beautiful creature and relate so much being a chubby violin playing misfit, then turning into a fabulous hairstylist. Thankyou for such a delightful read sis, you're incredible. Love you
♥️

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Heather L. Hurd

Verified Purchase

Everything I'd expect from JVN

Reviewed in the United States on January 1, 2022

This was a rollercoaster of a book, with all the effervescence you'd expect from JVN but lots of real darkness too. A few of the writing choices were a little difficult to navigate, but overall it was a very real look into the very real life of what seems like a complex and... See more

This was a rollercoaster of a book, with all the effervescence you'd expect from JVN but lots of real darkness too. A few of the writing choices were a little difficult to navigate, but overall it was a very real look into the very real life of what seems like a complex and genuinely fantastic person.

Helpful

Sarah Parr

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Lovely!

Reviewed in the United States on April 17, 2024

I loved the level of depth and honesty. The ability to really tell the whole truth. Even when it was not easy.

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Tim Brown

Verified Purchase

Bought as gift.

Reviewed in the United States on April 10, 2024

JVN is a real character. Compassionate, funny and so on.

Helpful

Anastasia Beaverhausen

Verified Purchase

I love him I love him I love him

Reviewed in the United States on October 7, 2023

This book is heart wrenching and heartwarming and hysterical (and a little triggering for some of us with similar experiences) all at the same time and I loved this book more than I have the words to express. I appreciate so much that this absolutely gorgeous human and one... See more

This book is heart wrenching and heartwarming and hysterical (and a little triggering for some of us with similar experiences) all at the same time and I loved this book more than I have the words to express. I appreciate so much that this absolutely gorgeous human and one of my personal gay idols was able and willing to bear his soul to us and the rest of the world. It made me feel seen, it made me feel better about my own progress and all the things I’ve personally overcome and excited and inspired about the new life I’ve been creating for myself. Thank you for this book. Thank you for your openness. I adore JVN even more than I already did.

3 people found this helpful

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Alexis Rose

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He Gave Himself, and Us, Permission

Reviewed in the United States on October 3, 2019

It’s a lifelong process for most people to be honest with themselves about who they are and be appreciative of all that entails. So the courage it takes to open yourself up to the entire world about that journey and expose your truest self is immeasurable. It takes a very... See more

It’s a lifelong process for most people to be honest with themselves about who they are and be appreciative of all that entails. So the courage it takes to open yourself up to the entire world about that journey and expose your truest self is immeasurable. It takes a very brave and strong individual. Especially when that person has already had the opportunity to share a version of themselves with the world and it’s an image that’s almost untouchable in its perfection. Courage is Jonathan Van Ness’s specialty.

It would have been extremely easy for Van Ness to write a very different memoir. He could have focused on his highest points and skipped the lowest entirely. His own personality and determination has created a lot of happiness and success and this book could have gone into detail on that and nobody would have complained or batted an eye.

Van Ness opens up about his childhood abuse by another boy; his close relationship with his mother; experiencing grief and loss of beloved family members; his struggle with addiction; his mistreatment of himself and others; and his failures. He uses his own trials and tribulations to help others be ok with themselves and kind with themselves. A person is beautiful because of their entire package. Knowing Van Ness’ whole story makes him shine all the brighter.

He also tells us about his vivid imagination and creative propensity. He tells stories that demonstrate his resilience and perseverance. He sets his mind to things that nobody gave him permission to set his mind to and he achieves them. Time and time again. Yes, it can be hard along the way, but he doesn’t give up. He becomes a star year-round cheerleader at his school, and he rides that into graduating early and getting accepted to a college cheer program. He pivots again and goes back to an early childhood dream of being a hair stylist, which he is stunning at. While he has a more natural talent for color, he puts in the work and training and observation to become equally as good at cut and across all hair textures. He moves back and forth across the country as many times as he needs to. He makes it in LA and NYC and eventually he finds his way into show business and Queer Eye. He becomes an adult and advocates for himself and others and wills his dreams into existence.

I would recommend anyone pick up this book, even if they are not already familiar with Jonathan Van Ness and his body of work. It is a class in empathy and understanding and a road map to self-love and self-soothing that it’s a relief to see especially in the age of Instagram where we mostly see one side of a person and not their dynamic form.

FIND MORE OF MY REVIEWS AT: lettersabound.com THANK YOU!

30 people found this helpful

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Top reviews from other countries

Alex Cendres

Verified Purchase

Love him so much, beautifully written

Reviewed in Canada on November 10, 2022

YAS, what a powerful story full of inspiration for period of hardship. Love!

One person found this helpful

Chipolata

Verified Purchase

Very nice

Reviewed in the United Kingdom on February 2, 2024

Loved this book.

Client Kindle

Verified Purchase

parfait état

Reviewed in France on August 9, 2023

livre reçu en parfait état

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Monica

Verified Purchase

Sweetness Overload!

Reviewed in Germany on January 7, 2022

This book needs a film! his life and experiences are extraordinary. The book will take you through an elevator of emotions, ups and downs, from crying to laughing, and at the end you just can end up admiring his inspiring beautiful soul 💜.

Cliente Kindle

Verified Purchase

Um livro emocionante e inspirador

Reviewed in Brazil on September 7, 2020

Eu já amava Jonathan por assisti-lo em Queer Eye. O amei mais quando ele revelou, com tanta coragem, sua condição de HIV+. Ler esse livro me fez entender a pessoa vendedora que ele é, e quão inspiradora sua história pode ser para outras pessoas. Foi para mim. Recomendo...See more

Eu já amava Jonathan por assisti-lo em Queer Eye. O amei mais quando ele revelou, com tanta coragem, sua condição de HIV+. Ler esse livro me fez entender a pessoa vendedora que ele é, e quão inspiradora sua história pode ser para outras pessoas. Foi para mim. Recomendo fortemente!

3 people found this helpful

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