Naturally Tan by Tan France is an interesting glimpse into the Queer Eye star’s life. He discusses his childhood, young adult years, and his rise to fame in this honest and inspiring memoir. His positive outlook and his ability to be frank comes through in this narrative, making it an instant favourite for his fans.
Title: Naturally TanAuthor: Tan France, Caroline Donofrio
Publisher: St. Martin's Press
Genres: Biography, Non-Fiction
Publication Date: June 4, 2019
Rating:
In this heartfelt, funny, touching memoir, Tan France, star of Netflix’s smash-hit QUEER EYE, tells his origin story for the first time. With his trademark wit, humor, and radical compassion, Tan reveals what it was like to grow up gay in a traditional Muslim family, as one of the few people of color in Doncaster, England. He illuminates his winding journey of coming of age, finding his voice (and style!), and how he finally came out to his family at the age of 34, revealing that he was happily married to the love of his life--a Mormon cowboy from Salt Lake City.
In Tan's own words, “The book is meant to spread joy, personal acceptance, and most of all understanding. Each of us is living our own private journey, and the more we know about each other, the healthier and happier the world will be.”
❃ I received this book for free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review. ❃
Book Review: Naturally Tan by Tan France
Having just discovered the whole Queer Eye fandom last year, I am always drawn to Tan France’s segments on the hit Netlfix series. There is consistently something he gives to the clients and viewers that can be used for style improvement. Naturally Tan also includes quite a few PSAs in the book, such as finding the perfect pair of jeans. These life tips are both helpful and laugh out loud at the same time. What is so wonderful is the fact that the Tan we see on the show is the same Tan in the pages of the book.
❀ Vivid Descriptions of Tan’s Life
Not all of the memoir is upbeat and happy, however. Tan describes many childhood and adult experiences where he has been bullied due to the colour of his skin. At times, it is heartbreaking to read, as he paints quite a vivd picture of what it was like to walk home from school and have to endure the racism in his community. Unfortunately, it seems that he still deals with racism as a well-known celebrity.
❀ Naturally Tan Audiobook is Worth a Listen
If you are an audiobook junkie, like myself, I highly suggest listening to the audio version of the book. When I found out that Tan narrated the book and that there is a special guest on the audio version, I was intrigued to give it a listen. He has a magical voice and it feels as though you are having a one-on-one conversation with him through the book. I won’t give away the surprise guest, but I will say that it is one of my favourite aspects of the audiobook.
❀ Enlightening and Down-to-Earth
Naturally Tan by Tan France will be enjoyed by fans of Queer Eye. They will be delighted and enlightened by its down-to-earth glimpse into the star’s life both on and off the show. He is such a kind and straightforward person. I look forward to finding out where Tan’s journey goes next.
About Tan France
Tanweer Wasim "Tan" France is an English fashion designer and television personality. He is currently the fashion expert for the Netflix series Queer Eye.
Ooooh this sounds excellent! I’m going to his book event in London in a few weeks time and I’m excited to get my copy!
So jealous!! Have a wonderful time! 🙂
Thank you so much!
This sounds amazing! I) ove Tan a lot! I’ll have to get the audio for sure. Lovely review!
Genesis @ Whispering Chapters recently posted…Swoon-Worthy: Fix Her Up by Tessa Bailey
I hope that you enjoy it, Genesis! 🙂
I’m not a fan of celebrity memoirs.
Heidi Robbins recently posted…Review: More Than Words Can Say by Karen Witemeyer
oooh that’s good to know about the audio!
Yes! Definitely give it a try! 🙂
Is it bad that I don’t know the show? I know Tan, but not the show.. Does that make up for not knowing the show?
Not at all! There is so much to watch on Netflix and I bet you’ll see it on there some day! 😉
wow this seems like something I should get my hands on
Tasha recently posted…Can over exfoliated skin cause acne? A closer look
Great review. I like down to earth. Sounds great.
My niece likes to watch Queer Eye. I’ll have to tell her about this book!
This sounds like an interesting read.
This does sound so good! My favorite type of book is memoir!!