Coal to Diamonds by Beth Ditto

[Narzain]

She's fat, she's queer, and oh that voice! Think that's all you need to know about Gossip lead singer Beth Ditto? Think again. And if you don't know what I mean about her voice, go find out:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5mQVlj... (Heavy Cross)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ck4Cqz... (Dimestore Diamond)

I could summarize and go on about how she has taken all the pain in her life, from the abuse that riddled her extended family to the rare disease that nearly took her sight, hearing and voice, and fused it all into an extraordinary woman. Or I could cite her fat-positive, queer-positive, be-who-you-are attitude that she tries to pass on to others. But it's all there in the book, and it's only 153 pages. Just go read it!

It won't always be an easy read, but her matter-of-fact approach helps the reader accept the pain as just another part of her past. It's well worthwhile.

[Kim, Proud Queen of the Fat and Fabulous!]

I read this as well. I fell in love with the song "Heavy Cross" from the Christian Dior commercial with Bridget Nielsen. (The one with the gold dress and the many necklaces). I then go their C.D. "Music for Men" from the library (I SO want it!). I was impressed. Beth has incredible voice,has been through so much but is able to keep going. She is big, beautiful and talented.