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True You: A Journey to Finding and Loving Yourself
ONE OF THE GREATEST ENTERTAINERS OF OUR TIME CANDIDLY REVEALS HER VERY PERSONAL STRUGGLE WITH AN ISSUE SO MANY OF US FACE EVERY DAY: SELF-ESTEEM Janet Jackson emerged from the shadows of an already famous family to become one of the most beloved, recognizable, and influential performers in the world. But at what cost?
From the age of ten, when she made her acting debut on G...more
From the age of ten, when she made her acting debut on G...more
Hardcover, 272 pages
Published
February 15th 2011
by Gallery Books/Karen Hunter Publishing
(first published January 25th 2011)
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This book is not an autobiography. I think that's important to note. However, the book does detail in courageous detail the journey Janet Jackson had in finding her own "true you" and becoming comfortable in being Janet Jackson...not "Michael's little sister" or any of the other labels she wore along the way.
I read the book in part because I wanted to know more about the Jackson family. However, as I began reading the book, I found that I could identify with Janet in so many ways, I soon lost s...more
I read the book in part because I wanted to know more about the Jackson family. However, as I began reading the book, I found that I could identify with Janet in so many ways, I soon lost s...more
Awful - don't even bother.
I always loved me some Janet historically minus all the albums after 2001's "All for You". I wanted to be her for several years as a child - Good Times (reruns people I'm not that old), Different Strokes, Fame to Control, Rhythm Nation, Janet, Velvet Rope, All for You. I was hoping this book provide actual insight to her struggles with weight and body image which I feel I could always relate to even if my weight fluctates have never been as extreme as Janet's up and dow...more
I always loved me some Janet historically minus all the albums after 2001's "All for You". I wanted to be her for several years as a child - Good Times (reruns people I'm not that old), Different Strokes, Fame to Control, Rhythm Nation, Janet, Velvet Rope, All for You. I was hoping this book provide actual insight to her struggles with weight and body image which I feel I could always relate to even if my weight fluctates have never been as extreme as Janet's up and dow...more
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I liked this book, in fact I don't understand why so many people expected it to be an autobiography or deeply personal memoir. Janet herself said not only in the book several times, but also in every promotional appearance she made on tv that it was about her life long journey to finding her true self and hoped that it would help you, her fans & those who read the book, find your true you.
I liked that there were several pages of recipes at the end of the book as well as the chapter from her...more
I liked that there were several pages of recipes at the end of the book as well as the chapter from her...more
Jun 09, 2011
Desiree
rated it
4 of 5 stars
Recommends it for:
Everyone
Shelves:
self-image-issues,
nutrition
First of all, I would like to point out to everyone who reads this that this is not a memoir or an in-depth, detailed overview of her darkest days, facing herself. It is, in fact, a lighter version of her battling those voices most of us have within ourselves, telling us that we'll never be or look good enough to appease both the world and ourselves. Janet mentions several times throughout the beginning of the book that this is about finding the True You, learning to be self-confident and find t...more
As an avid Janet fan, I got joy out of reading this book because it was written from the point of view of Janet herself. You can almost feel her sensitivity, her pain, her insecurity, and her strength while reading each chapter in which she explains her journey about accepting her body and her true self, and how her journey can help others in finding the "true you." It's not a memoir or an autobiography; it reads more like a journal, meaning that there are parts that are extremely brave, persona...more
I Liked this book for many reasons and disliked it also. The reason I liked this book is because Janet was brave enough to really say what was going on behind the scenes when everyone thought she was happy and okay with everything. A lot of people can't straight up say hey this is what went on. Another thing was I could relate to what she went through, as a person whose always questioning her body image because of constantly being ridiculed by family and other people, I found this book empowerin...more
Ok....This was a pretty good book...I've been a fan of Miss Jackson since her "Control" album came out when I was 11 yrs. old...So I was so thrilled when I saw that she was putting out an autobiography...She always amazes me how she is so humble and shy in person, but, when she hits the stage and gets a mic in her hand she becomes this fearless femme fatale....Same with her acting chops as well...This woman's just so blessed with so many talents...I enjoyed getting an inside look into how she be...more
I love Janet Jackson. Absolutely adore her. She is so incredibly talented, intelligent, and beautiful. She is undeniably the most talented artist ever. Ever. Not of the century, generation, etc. Ever. I've just started the book but am so excited to read it. Bought through the Kindle app on my iPod.
If your Janet fan, have had weight issues, and or family drama reading this quick book may make you feel one with Janet. I read other reviews and those whom gave honest opinions all agreed it was a great introduction but that as in depth as it goes. I would of liked to have read more on certain areas where ms jackson brushed over topics or points in her life. But as admirer I want to say I'm glad she wrote this starter book because people can relate and agree. In hearing her struggles and fans a...more
Yikes! The only good thing I can say about this book is that it is over quickly.
I was very disappointed. I did not expect this to be a memoir but I did expect it to give me some insight into the real Janet Jackson - the woman who struggles with weight, self esteem, body image, all the things that make her who she is.
Too many stories that meant nothing when I would have liked to find out how she had the discipline to run 5 miles(in the sand)every day & how she managed to do that & weigh...more
I was very disappointed. I did not expect this to be a memoir but I did expect it to give me some insight into the real Janet Jackson - the woman who struggles with weight, self esteem, body image, all the things that make her who she is.
Too many stories that meant nothing when I would have liked to find out how she had the discipline to run 5 miles(in the sand)every day & how she managed to do that & weigh...more
self help ultra light
This isn't even a book, more like an essay, with full page photos, quotes & recipes bulking it out.
Even worse the rest of the book, in between Janet's self pity, is made up of stories from 'friends' & fans.
Nothing about the superbowl, barely a mention of Jermaine Dupri or anything past The Velvet Rope and she's legally gagged from discussing Rene Elizondo!
All that's left is the barest of biographies peppered with inane clichés and praise for her personal trainer &...more
This isn't even a book, more like an essay, with full page photos, quotes & recipes bulking it out.
Even worse the rest of the book, in between Janet's self pity, is made up of stories from 'friends' & fans.
Nothing about the superbowl, barely a mention of Jermaine Dupri or anything past The Velvet Rope and she's legally gagged from discussing Rene Elizondo!
All that's left is the barest of biographies peppered with inane clichés and praise for her personal trainer &...more
ok maybe 2 stars and a half.
first I need to say that am not really a fan of Janet or into biographies, i got this book by chance and was flipping through the pages I read first page turned to the 2nd,and before i knw it i found myself actually reading through it,
i liked the sound of the book the way it was narrated was calm a light talk from the heart, about struggle and the way you look at yourself, i cant say i was inspired i just enjoyed it, it was different from what am used to read,and had...more
first I need to say that am not really a fan of Janet or into biographies, i got this book by chance and was flipping through the pages I read first page turned to the 2nd,and before i knw it i found myself actually reading through it,
i liked the sound of the book the way it was narrated was calm a light talk from the heart, about struggle and the way you look at yourself, i cant say i was inspired i just enjoyed it, it was different from what am used to read,and had...more
I read a lot of memoirs. That being said, this book was not a memoir. It's more of a revelation of self loathing and wanting to be thin... so that "others" can accept you (self esteem issues). Janet was so open and brave for the first half of the book. We got a side of vulnerability that I am sure was difficult to share.
Janet's book is actually a "DIET" BOOK IN DISGUISE. It was *this close* to being a knockout. There is an afterword from her nutritionist who talks about getting her in shape and...more
Janet's book is actually a "DIET" BOOK IN DISGUISE. It was *this close* to being a knockout. There is an afterword from her nutritionist who talks about getting her in shape and...more
She says this isn't an autobiography, but it is. True You is Janet's life story, spun as self-help with an emphasis on how she overcame her body image issues and developed the self-esteem to be a superstar. The sentiment is genuine, and she writes sweetly with a real interest in young women feeling better about themselves. I was put off reading this for a long time cause it seemed like chick stuff but as it turns out there's plenty of insights into her life and music that any fan will appreciate...more
In College people told me I remind them of Janet, and after reading her book it seems we have more in common. For this reason the book hit home with me. I gained a lot from it. It's not an autobiography or memoir as some would think. It's actually a very light read covering a little of her struggles, short stories of other people (fans/friends) and a little from her nutritionist.
As well, it's not filled with details of her personal life which I liked. That says a lot about her character. Go rea...more
As well, it's not filled with details of her personal life which I liked. That says a lot about her character. Go rea...more
It was a great book focused on body image and learning to be at peace with the way you look no matter what anyone else is telling you. I appreciated Janet Jackson sharing her deeply personal troubles on such a public level as a way to help others. Anyone expecting a biography will not get it here. It is focused solely on her journey from having an unhealthy self-image to developing a better one. And she admits the journey continues to this day.
Note: She does not discuss any plastic surgery she m...more
Note: She does not discuss any plastic surgery she m...more
Feb 28, 2011
Gertrude
rated it
2 of 5 stars
Shelves:
non-fiction,
memoir,
books-about-women,
own-it,
women-writers,
self-help,
guide,
health,
music
This memoir is so boring. I feel like Janet could have gone more in depth with issues of body image. She talks a lot about her battle with health and body image, but she never really explains WHY she had these issues, she says she internalized her brothers' teasing, but why? I found the memoir very unfulfilling because I see memoirs as the reality TV of literature. This did not cut it. Janet should have (and hopefully will one day in the future) write a weight loss book, even one reads like a no...more
Finally, mysteries of the ages answered!!
Happy birthday to Janet Jackson today, May 16, 2012, who turns fogh-koff!-koff!-years-old :) today!! -- Anyway, I finished reading her book a few months ago. It came out with very little fanfare early last year. The book is autobiographical without actually being an autobiography. The bookstore that I bought it from was so focused on the self-help aspects of the book, they had all six of their copies in the self-help section -- not a one in the music sect...more
Happy birthday to Janet Jackson today, May 16, 2012, who turns fogh-koff!-koff!-years-old :) today!! -- Anyway, I finished reading her book a few months ago. It came out with very little fanfare early last year. The book is autobiographical without actually being an autobiography. The bookstore that I bought it from was so focused on the self-help aspects of the book, they had all six of their copies in the self-help section -- not a one in the music sect...more
Oh, my beloved Janet. I have never been more eager to return a book to the library. Not because I want to share the joy of reading with the next participant, but mainly because I can rid myself of the bedside-book guilt of not enjoying your literary attempt. Now, mind you, I understand you are a private person. And shy, to boot. But, I was under the impression that when I picked up a book about your life, that I would actually read about YOUR life. I pity the fool who believes this. I've learned...more
This book was more of an inspirational one for those who struggle with the image of wanting to look like 'the others' in the media, not so much of an autobiography about her life. Though Janet did talk about her struggles; her weight, her relationships and the choices she made that were not as well received by the majority. The book does not really deal with her life as a whole. Most of the time, Janet provides advice about weight loss and how to eat healthily (with a short “recipe book” at the...more
This isn't as personal as you might want, but it gives a good amount of background on Janet Jackson's family life and her struggles with self confidence. She sticks to her tradition of keeping her private life private, but it's done in a way that makes you want to hear more about her career, her experiences with discrimination, etc. It reads very quickly and has a very positive inspirational tone to it. Overall an enjoyable effort from a legendary entertainer.
I read this book in 3 hours, it is a very quick read and a pretty interesting snapshot of her life. More specifics would have made it better but I think the purpose behind the book was not to tell her life story but to show everyone she has a lot of demons and how she has attempted to overcome those, kind of like a self help book. The last chapter was written by her nutritionist which was very interesting.
This book is geared for the younger audience. In my opinion its pretty vague and therefore is a high level overview of any type of life issues or insecurities everyone goes through, not much meat. I did enjoy the recipes at the end :) I do think for a young pre-teen or teenage girl this book could be great to let them see that they aren't alone, other people feel as insecure and confused - even famous and successful women.
I was truly disappointed by this book. I mean, I love Janet and all, but I'm not really looking for self-help advice from her. There were a lot of anecdotes, but I don't feel like they were as fully developed as they could have been. Also, only about half of the book is Janet giving advice. The other half happens to be her nutritionist and a list of recipes. Again, appreciate it, but not looking for self-help advice from Janet...
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I really enjoyed this book, not only because I love Janet Jackson, but because you can feel her pain in her darkest times, which alot of us women can relate. I think for any women who can come out and really speak out of all the insecurities must of us women have is great, it makes you realize that celebrity or not we are all humans & face daily struggles! Janet is a strong woman & a great inspiration!
Not your typical rock and roll biography. Although you get a snapshot of what was going on in Janet's life acting, performing and making music, the real story was her personal struggle with eating, body image and acceptance. I found this book to be inspiring and empowering. It was an amazing journey to find the true you and your core person, emotionally, physically and spiritually. A great read.
Wanted more Janet and less others. The main story of the book was her weight issues, briefly discusses relationships with J DeBarge, Dupree, her dad & Michael. The book gives one false hope for in-depth story since 70 pages of recipes, nearly 25 pages of photos, 15 pages from her nutritionist and almost 20 pages of letters or stories from friends and/or fans. The message is clear, always be true to you.
absolute drivel.
you can tell that janet is a shell of a person from this book. in fact, it's not even really a book. it's more like stringing along quotes from fans of hers and then giving props to her trainer and cook by putting his recipes in the back of it.
i wanted to read about her caffeine enemas!
maybe one day she'll grow up. wait she's a jackson. she never will.
you can tell that janet is a shell of a person from this book. in fact, it's not even really a book. it's more like stringing along quotes from fans of hers and then giving props to her trainer and cook by putting his recipes in the back of it.
i wanted to read about her caffeine enemas!
maybe one day she'll grow up. wait she's a jackson. she never will.
It was pretty good. Encouraging. She lets you into her life just a little bit. But I think this book is more just letting those who read it know that, no, she isnt perfect, she has struggles like everyone else. And she talked about a few of the rumors that were out there about her...i.e....whether she actually had a rib removed or not [lets just say, dont believe everything you hear..from anyone..media, friends, associates, etc}
I really enjoyed reading this book. I honestly thought it was awesome for Janet to let her fans & readers know that she too has battled with the whole loosing weight ordeal. I couldn't put this book down I wanted to keep on knowing more about how she handled the obstacles that were presented to her on this journey in loosing weight. Its made me appreciate myself & love my curves which define me as who I am..
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Janet Damita Jo Jackson is an American singer-songwriter, record producer, dancer, and actress. Born and raised in Gary, Indiana, she is the youngest member of the Jackson family, which has produced several musicians.
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“To cut off the confusion and accept an answer just because it's too scary not to have an answer is a good way to get the wrong answer.”
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“To be given permission to be confused -- and remain confused -- for as long as it takes would have been a huge gift.”
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