True You

As some of you may know, today is Janet Jackson's birthday. And in honor of her, I'm reviewing her book, True You.

Growing up, one of my favorite things to do (besides reading) was watch videos. And she was one of the artists I loved watching. One of my favorite videos (and songs) from her is Pleasure Principle and I still wonder to this day how she jumped off that platform. I also loved playing her music (to the point that the Rhythm Nation tape popped) and got to a chance to see her during the Velvet Rope tour.

As we know, the last few years have been tough on Saint Damita Jo. Nipplegate, albums not selling as well, and loosing Michael. It would be enough to make anyone scream.

But she also taken this time to go back in the acting business and be in a few movies (with the help of Madea, I mean Tyler). And with David Ritz, she has wrote a best-selling book.

True You is part biography, part advice book in which Janet shares her personal struggles with weight and self-esteem. She also discusses her family life and what it's like to be a Jackson. She gives advise to readers and fans, and tells that that it is OK being your True You. And that everything is going to be alright.

For someone who has struggled with self-esteem, some of moments were very touching and left me in tears. Not only she draws from her own experiences, but experiences from friends and from fans who have wrote her letters. Some of their experiences are heartbreaking, but their examples serve as an inspiration to go forward with life.

At the end, she also gives advice from her trainer and has her favorite recipes for readers to try.

I also enjoyed the pictures in the book of her and her family. The one that touched my heart the most was a picture of her and Michael. Janet had to have been in her tween years because she looked like when she did on Good Times. She looks up to Michael, who was tall and had a huge Afro. #tears She also talks about the good times she and her brother had.

If you haven't picked up this book, please do. The book is not that long, but it is well worth the read. You will want this in your collection.

Here is another one of my favorite songs from Janet. It's not one of her most famous hits (it's with Herb Alpert), but I remember this and the girl who used to imitate her on Putting on the Hits (it was an 80s karaoke/lip syncing show where people impersonated their favorite singers).

Happy Birthday Janet!!

P.S. For her birthday, Janet is asking fans to donate to amfAR in her honor.

P.P.S. And if you haven't noticed, some of the words in this post are linked to Janet videos on YouTube.