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A Visual Ode to RuPaul, Queen of Drag

RuPaul has a new book. Photo: Libby Vanderploeg

The iconic drag queen RuPaul (both real name and stage name) already has a long list of book-worthy achievements — so many, in fact, that it may have caused some of us to wonder: Where is the illustrated anthology of RuPaul quotes and the drag queens she inspired? Your RuPrayers have been answered.

The Essential RuPaul: HERstory, Philosophy & Her Fiercest Queens by John Davis (out this week from Rizzoli) profiles the most iconic characters from RuPaul’s Drag Race, the reality-TV drag contest. The book includes cheeky sketches by Brooklyn-based artist Libby VanderPloeg and illustrated RuPaul quotes. It also features some of the show’s most famous contestants, categorizing them by “type,” from “Filipino Fashionista” Manila Luzon to “First Lady of Lip-Sync” Jujubee.

Click ahead to see “Jersey Showgirl” Carmen Carrera, “Hollywood Club Kid” Pearl, and “Sickening Stoner” Laganja Estranja.

Illustration: Libby Vanderploeg

RuPaul.

Illustration: Libby Vanderploeg

RuPaul.

Illustration: Libby Vanderploeg

RuPaul.

Illustration: Libby Vanderploeg

Carmen Carrera.

Illustration: Libby Vanderploeg

Ginger Minj.

Illustration: Libby Vanderploeg

La Ganja.

Illustration: Libby Vanderploeg

Pearl.

Illustration: Libby Vanderploeg

RuPaul.

Photo: Libby Vanderploeg

Cover of The Essential RuPaul.

Finally There’s an Illustrated Guide to RuPaul