Growing up, I loved Dame Edna, even though I didn’t understand what drag was then. I can look back to my childhood to find the basis for my love of drag, and it’s Dame Edna and her epic taste in glasses. I also really like Elton’s glasses when planning my drag, so I definitely have a giant-sparkly-glasses thing! But drag queens are more than just what they look like. Queens are famously multi-talented, with some of the world’s best actors, models, comedians, dressmakers, singers, and dancers finding their home in the drag industry. With so many creative talents, it was only a matter of time before drag queens turned their hands to writing and photography. The list below includes books by drag kings and queens. Lotte Jeffs is a particular inspiration of mine. She seems so confident and secure in herself, and I both admire that and aspire to be that. She is also the Deputy Editor of ELLE UK, which is a fantastic achievement. Her book is all about ‘the art of soft power in hard times, ‘ which is very relevant for the times we live in these days. It is incredible to see a queer woman taking up a very visible space. I have tried to include as many women as possible, but drag undeniably slants to being predominately male. However, while in drag, queens often use she/her pronouns. I hope there’s something on this list to brighten up your world. Need more books about drag? Check out this list of 10 Books for RuPaul’s Drag Race fans, or why not look for some great queer comics?
