CHAPPELL ROAN: A Vibrant Journey Through the Career and Influence of the Indie-Pop Superstar, heartening to know she's so popular

CHAPPELL ROAN: A Vibrant Journey Through the Career and Influence of the Indie-Pop Superstar
HARBERT DAY
Epic Ink (non-affiliate Bookshop.org link)
$19.99 all editions, available now

Rating: 5* of five

The Publisher Says: Explore the “femininomenon” and cultural impact of the Midwest pop princess, Chappell Roan, in this richly illustrated biography.

Chappell Roan is a 2025 Grammy Award winner for Best New Artist. The queer queen’s meteoric rise from small-town girl to pop icon is a story of self-discovery, resilience, and triumph. With a back-and-forth journey that resulted in your favorite artists’ favorite artist and a TikTok sensation hit after hit, there is much to discuss about how this Midwesterner paved her own path and made her voice loud in Hollywood. Featuring over 40 vibrant photographs, Chappell Roan captures the star’s personal and professional journey, celebrating her talent, fierce creativity, and commitment to self-expression and LGBTQ+ representation. Find glimpses into her songwriting process as this book unveils how Roan stays true to her individuality in an industry often demanding conformity.

Learn about the life and career of the “HOT TO GO!” star, including:

Small-town roots: Hailing from Willard, Missouri, learn how Chappell credits her hometown for her unique perspective on life.

Self-taught visual artist: Discover how Chappell has used her self-taught painting and designing skills to create a deeply immersive musical experience.

Queer icon in the making: A representative in mainstream pop, Chappell identifies as queer and a drag queen, and has advocated for the LGBTQ+ community.

DIY ethos: After parting ways with Atlantic Records, Chappell is now an independent artist with more creative freedom in her music and image.

Theatrical live performances: Her live shows are famous for their high-energy, elaborate costumes, and cabaret-style approach.

From overcoming challenges as an emerging artist to crafting a distinct image and voice, Chappell Roan’s story of self-acceptance and resilience has inspired her fans to embrace their own identities without compromise. Filled with emotional depth, candid stories, and stunning visuals, this book is a celebration of how one artist is reshaping the pop world, and perfect for fans of Chappell Roan and music lovers alike.

The Fierce and Fearless series immerses fans and music lovers in the lives and careers of today’s most dazzling pop stars. Explore the fascinating stories behind their chart-topping songs, showstopping fashion moments, and outstanding achievements. In thought-provoking biographies that capture both the triumphs and challenges, discover what it takes to become a powerhouse in the music world. With stunning photos and inspiring quotes, these books offer an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the best singers and songwriters of our time.

I RECEIVED A DRC FROM THE PUBLISHER VIA EDELWEISS+. THANK YOU.

My Review: This performer is the definition of luck meeting hard, focused work. They have made a career in spite of being too much, of being too different, for the normies.

quite a resume for one so young

In this beautifully designed illustrated biography, there are lots of details a casual observer won't know, lots of images to please a true fan, and a message that really is the heart of the entire carefully designed persona and career:

Her fanbase seems to me to be underserved...so if you have one on your gifting list, now's the time to get this marvelous gift for them. The point being to entertain, I think the book does that well; the point being to inspire, I think the book does that well, too:

Pop princess and drag-queen-in-a-woman's-body never reached closer to the huge success Chappell Roan has. I am impressed and delighted by her, by the work ethic she models, and the fearless, fierce expression of self that powers the entire show. Brava to Chappell Roan, and long may her fans have her to kvell over.