In Stay true to who you are top artist Vanessa van Cartier shares her dramatic life story. Hundreds of thousands of viewers witnessed her victory on Drag Race Holland at the end of 2021, but few know how long and painful her path to the top actually was. In her book, van Cartier hopes to offer support and encouragement to those in a similar situation, telling fans and other readers: always believe in yourself.


Step by step Vanessa has found her way. In her book she talks about drag, prostitution, her transition, discrimination, depression and suicidal thoughts. In addition she tells readers how she found the love of her life and how she persevered and healed by surrounding herself with positive and exceptional people who encourage and support her.


‘Vanessa's story and heart and words will move you and teach you what true kindness and courage looks like. I’m so happy to have Vanessa in my life and with this book you can as well’ – Sam Smith

The book contains a lot of additional background information on the topics of bullying and sexual orientation, HIV and AIDS, child abuse, cross-dressing and drag, transgender people and depression. Topics that Vanessa herself had to deal with.