Heart on My Sleeve: Stories from a Life Well Worn

by Jeanne Beker

Fashion and style icon Jeanne Beker delivers an uplifting and inspiring memoir that walks us through a wardrobe of memory, one article of clothing at a time.Jeanne Beker’s name is synonymous with style and grace in fashion. Recognized by many as the beloved host of Fashion Television and The New Music, Jeanne has spent an entire career interviewing celebrities and uncovering their most private selves. Now, in Heart on My Sleeve, Jeanne reveals who she is in an all-new way. This is not just a memoir but a wardrobe of memory. Jeanne walks us through her recollections of specific pieces of clothing and jewelry, precious items that have made an indelible impact on her. She invites readers to think more deeply about how what we wear—whether it’s a thrift-store find or high-end couture—acts as a touchstone to our most treasured recollections, reminding us of who we once were or of loved ones we hold dear. With Jeanne as our style guide, we get up-close and personal with a star-studded cast, including Paul McCartney, Madonna, Karl Lagerfeld, Kate Moss, Oscar de la Renta, Beyoncé, and Keith Richards. But equally important, Jeanne introduces us to the family members and loved ones who form her closest entourage—including her wise Yiddish mother and her industrious father, both Holocaust survivors; her childhood neighbor Mrs. Jaskolka, a style maven ahead of her time; her two trailblazing daughters; and her many warm and exuberant friends who have seen her through the best and worst of times. Jeanne proves that a life lived with style and substance is always in fashion. Bold, colorful, and authentic, this is Jeanne Beker at her very best and brightest.

Genres: Memoir, Nonfiction, Fashion, Canada, Biography, Audiobook, Biography Memoir

256 pages, Hardcover

First published October 8, 2024

About the author

Jeanne Beker is the host and segment producer of the internationally syndicated FashionTelevision and style columnist for the Globe and Mail. She was editor-in-chief of FQ and SIR magazines, as well as being a celebrated judge for several seasons on Canada’s Next Top Model. In the fall of 2010, Jeanne launched her clothing line EDIT at the Bay across Canada. She is the author of five books, including The Big Night Out and Passion for Fashion. Her most recent book, Strutting It! The Grit Behind the Glamour (Tundra Books) is a behind-the-scenes look at the life of a model. She lives in Toronto.

Reviews

[Wendy · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is why I love memoirs!
Many years ago I became familiar with Jeanne Beker by watching her on Much Music and Fashion Television.
After reading "Heart On My Sleeve" I feel as if I am being reacquainted with an old friend.
Jeanne opens up and tells us about her childhood, family, marriages, children, heartbreak, health issues, new found love and her wonderful career interviewing celebrities tying all of her stories into her love of fashion.
Written in a unique style each chapter includes a different part of her life as well as a favourite item of clothing.
Jeanne Beker is a fashion and style icon and delivers an uplifting and inspiring memoir.
Highly Recommended!

Thank you to NetGalley and Simon & Schuster Canada for an arc of this novel in exchange for my honest review.

[Kelly (The Happiest Little Book Club)]

I really loved her stories. Such a great audiobook!

[Shannon · Rating 3 out of 5]

Legendary fashion reporter/tv host, Jeanne Beker shares some of her favorite memories about her favorite outfits and encounters meeting number of famous celebrities, politicians, musicians and designers. She also talks about her parents, her childhood, touches briefly on some of the ups and downs of her love life, being a single working mother and her battle with cancer and chemo. Fans of this Canadian icon won't want to miss this one that was good on audio read by the author herself.

[❀ Susan · Rating 4 out of 5]

I had decided not to buy a book at the Grimbsy Author Series but after hearing Jeanne Baker speak, I needed a signed copy and it did not disappoint. With honesty and vulnerability, Jeanne shared many life lessons as she reflected on certain fashion items throughout her life. Although I was not all that interested in the fashion, I loved learning about her life, hard work, interviews (Paul McCartney, Keith Richards and many more), challenges (divorce, breast cancer), a bit about her daughters and meeting the love of her life.

Her family story is heartbreaking, her parents lost their families in the Holocaust yet survived, worked hard and raised a family in Canada and gave a new perspective to what I thought I knew about the woman I saw on TV.

[Autumn Sophia · Rating 3 out of 5]

if you ever wanted anything to do with fashion growing up in Canada, you know who Jeanne Beker is. by taking us through some of her favourite pieces and connecting those tales to the personal stories and antedates those pieces encapsulate, Jeanne lets us in on her philosophies for love, life and fashion.

this kitschy, unique and fully Jeanne approach to a memoir through her most revered and beloved clothing and accessories was a delightful read 📖💕🪡🧵👗

while the book generally keeps to more lighthearted topics and stories in Jeanne’s life, it is 100% worth a read/listen if you (like me) grew up watching Jeanne on Fashion Television Canada.

each bite-sized chapter made this book easy to fly through and it was a joy to do it as an audio book from Jeanne’s own voice. I still remember the TMU fashion show I volunteered at in first year uni and the moment Jeanne walked in and said hi to me with her gorgeous mega-watt smile, radiating kindness. I remember telling the volunteers I *had* to be a greeter and it was for this very purpose - to get the chance just to have a moment of connection with one of my personal fashion heroes growing up, Jeanne (who we had heard was coming). growing up watching her on Fashion Television to that moment was such a surreal moment and now, reading her memoir, I was reminded of the many reasons I admire and deeply respect her.

[Maearle · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a really fun read. Jeanne tells chosen stories from her life in a chronological way. She speaks of her family and childhood, her adventures as a youth, her many phases of her career and family life. She doesn’t go into great detail but enough to understand the incredible luck, in some instances, and greatness that makes her worthy of the Order of Canada. She did much to advance women journalism in the music industry and then Canada in the fashion world.

[Terri Durling · Rating 4 out of 5]

I recently received an advance copy of this book from Simon & Schuster. Since I have been a fan of Jeanne Beker since her days as host of the Canadian television show, “Fashion Television”, I was pleased to get the book and find out more about what has been happening in her life. Having followed her on Instagram, I knew she, like myself, was a breast cancer survivor and I followed her cancer journey with much interest. First of all, the packaging of the book was awesome! It came in a cardboard box that featured a collage of photos of Jeanne with many of the celebrities she interviewed over the years, as well as shots of her wearing the various items she speaks about in each chapter of her book - stories from a life well worn. Being a huge fashion lover, I was taken with the concept of how various articles of clothing, jewellery and accessories have impacted her life. For me, clothes definitely make a difference. Often the first impression we get of a person is based on what they are wearing. Jeanne tells her fashion stories in a witty, sentimental way that truly emphasizes the impact our wardrobe has on our lives. I loved the bookmark that came with the book - a cutout of a Dior dress she received in 1985. The illustrations of the memory item at the beginning of each chapter were done by one of her daughters, I believe, and are a charming start to each story. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and was lucky enough to get Jeanne herself to sign it when she came to Halifax for her book launch at the Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21 recently. This spot has special meaning to Jeanne as her parents were Holocaust survivors and came through Pier 21 after the war. It was a pleasure to meet her in person and I will keep the decorative box and book in my “dressing room” which contains many memories of my own journey in life through fashion.

[Kathleen Freeman · Rating 4 out of 5]

As a kid/teenager growing up in the Toronto area in the 1980’s Jeanne Beker was the face of Fashion Television on CityTV and I think of her and the show every time I hear the shows theme song Animotion's iconic “Obsession”.

When I saw she had a memoir I knew I needed to read this book, I really liked that she did the narration herself and I learned so much. This book is a bit a love letter to her career as a music and fashion reporter and the clothes that hold special memories in her wardrobe each piece has their own special story linked to an interview with fashion and music icons. I had no idea that she was the daughter of holocaust survivors she is an example of women who embraced life, worked hard to make things happen and created cherished friendships along the way.

I am glad I read this book it was definitely inspirational.

[DB · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book breezes by quickly and Jeanne Beker has many interesting anecdotes and stories. It’s not a terrible book by any means but it’s also not terribly well-written. I think if you look at it as a conversation rather than literature, it’s enjoyable. There was an opportunity to explore some deeper themes about the way famous people behave, attitudes towards women, physical appearance and re-inventing oneself that was missed. Jeanne Beker has had a privileged life and it shows throughout her writing. This is not a bad thing but just another missed opportunity for reflection, especially in an age where millions of people are struggling. I get the feeling the worst thing a women can be in her eyes is fat.

[Michelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jeanne Beker’s "Heart on My Sleeve" is a heartfelt memoir that resonates deeply, especially for my 80s self, who spent Sunday nights during the 80s and 90s glued to FT on CITY-TV Toronto, captivated by Jeanne and the fabric of her fashionable world. I can still remember the feeling every Sunday when the show's theme song "Obsession" would start playing, and we would glimpse a short preview of the episode—pure joy. As a fellow Ontarian, Beker’s rise to fame felt personal and inspiring, making this book a nostalgic and meaningful read.

Beker’s memoir weaves together her experiences in the fashion industry with her personal life, offering a candid look at her journey. She shares behind-the-scenes stories from Fashion Television, encounters with fashion icons, and the evolution of her career. Her writing is engaging, making you feel as if you’re right there with her, experiencing the highs and lows of the fashion world.

What makes "Heart on My Sleeve" particularly special is Beker’s authenticity. She doesn’t just chronicle her successes; she opens up about her challenges, vulnerabilities, and the resilience required to thrive in a competitive industry. Her reflections are deeply moving and relatable.

For someone who continues to admire the effortlessly cool Jeanne Beker, this memoir is an absolute treasure. "Heart on My Sleeve" is not just a recounting of a glamorous career but a testament to the power of passion and perseverance. It’s a compelling and inspirational read that captures the essence of a true Canadian icon.

Many thanks to Edelweiss, Simon & Schuster, and the incomparable Jeanne Beker for the opportunity to read and review "Heart on My Sleeve" prior to its publication date.

[Marilyn Wilson · Rating 5 out of 5]

When I heard about Heart on My Sleeve, I couldn't wait to get a copy. Why? Two reasons. Many years ago I heard Beker being interviewed about her life onstage at a local event. I sat enthralled. Over the course of the evening she shared just the kind of personal stories I loved to hear when I was interviewing. All through the night I was kicking myself for not bringing my recorder. What a joy to find many of those same stories shared in this book. It took me back to that moment in time - the first time I heard her speak.

Second, I love the stories the clothing in my closet tell too, and share them often when I wear a special piece. In 2022 I even started a blog submission series called Stories from my Closet. So the author's decision to share about her life through treasures from her closet hit the perfect mark for me. I couldn’t put the book down.

Heart on my Sleeve looks back on Beker's journey from childhood to today (including her parents backstory of escaping Germany). She is a wonderful story teller and speaks of her life with both great joy and simple honesty. What becomes quickly clear is how much she enjoyed her work and the people she was privileged to meet. So many she interviewed quickly became long-time friends. I think this is because she has an intuitive knack for feeling what those she interviewed would like share.

A great read. In fact I will probably read it a second time highlighting favorite passages.

[Swiftruner · Rating 2 out of 5]

I grew up with seeing flashes of Fashion Television on a Saturday or Sunday afternoon and was so intrigued when Jeanne Beker was coming out with a memoir of sorts.

I was surprised how few photos were in it and how the book was broken up - interesting to use clothing as chapter prompts and as much as I wanted to be here in the book for the clothes and the fashion stories I wanted to hear Jeanne’s stories. It was the stories that fell flat for me. Too quick, too flattering, too rushed and I didn’t feel wonder or connection or awe or sadness or joy to the extent a memoir often can invoke.

It’s not a bad read at all, just felt like reading 20-30 articles for a magazine rather than a book and maybe at the end of the day, I should y have expected a book as Jeanne was at a forefront of tv. Soundbite media and she is doing what she excels at - telling a story, showcasing the guest, all under the spell of fashion.

[Wendy · Rating 3 out of 5]

If you lived through the early days of (Canada's) Much Music as well as all of the Fashion Television days, Jeanne Beker is well known to you. She definitely had lots of screen time on my tv, both as a cutting edge "VJ," and then travelling the haute couture world in search of a scoop.
I thoroughly enjoyed this straightforward, clearly written, and heartfelt memoir. Beker cleverly wraps significant life chapters around a piece of clothing, extracting the moment's impact on her.
On screen, she always seemed a positive person, full of hope and not a little chutzpah. These qualities radiate from her anecdotes. She has had her fair share of challenges, but somehow (at least, in these pages), retains a positive, active woman.
If you were a fan of her or her programs (or both), this is a quick, fun read.

[Teena in Toronto · Rating 3 out of 5]

I'm not much of a fashionista but I like reading books about and by Canadians and I remember Bekker from The New Music. While I'm not into fashion, I did enjoy her stories and getting the scoop on the celebrities she got to meet, interview and befriend. She has had many adventures in her life because of her occupation and it sounds like she took joy from them.

I enjoyed the writing style. These were short stories on specific topics or people on a high level. It would have been nice to have seen pictures, though. I found at times I was Googling to see what she was referring to and not being able to find the picture.

Blog review post: http://www.teenaintoronto.com/2024/09...

[Bree · Rating 4 out of 5]

You have to have this on Audio! Jeanne is telling it all.
I loved this, but I love Jeanne so much. She could read some old articles from Bop or a flyer at shoppers and I’d still love it.

Listening to her battle cancer TWICE made me cry.
All her special wardrobe pieces tangled into life’s big moments is the real gem of her story.

FT opened my eyes when I was in second grade. I snuck out of my bedroom when I was suppose to be sleeping and tip toed down the stairs to see my mum watching Fashion Television. I would watch from the stairs and be into awe and watch Jeanne interview the coolest designers and to let us know what was on trend.

Jeanne you are a bad ass and one hell of an awesome gal. Thank you for your life in fashion! xo

[Marie Gallagher · Rating 5 out of 5]

I attended an event where Jeanne was speaking and had to get the book, autographed of course. It was an easy and enjoyable read. Each chapter highlighted a story behind an article of clothing from days gone by, most of which are still in Jeanne's closet! It's fascinating to read how many fashion moguls Jeanne met over the years, many of whom became friends. Karl Lagerfeld, Oscar de la Renta, Issac Mizrahi and Kate Moss to name a few. Her friend Linda Evangelista wrote the opening page. The chapters are quick little individual reads, each autonomous from the other. Definitely worth the read.

[Sophia Sadoughi · Rating 3 out of 5]

Decided to give the audiobook a try because its read by Jeanne herself. With memoirs especially I love it when an audiobook is read by the author themself, but Jeanne is a bit too animated for me to the point where it kind of distracted me from the content itself. This isn’t necessarily a bad thing (and translates well into television and real life!) but I’m someone who strongly prefers a calmer, more soothing voice (think Riley Keough reading ‘From Here to the Great Unknown’ or Priscilla Presley’s ‘Elvis and Me’) especially since I tend to do audiobooks before bed when my eyes are too sleepy to read an actual book.

[Andrea · Rating 4 out of 5]

After seeing the famous host of “Fashion Television” in an airport one time, I have wondered about Jeanne Beker’s life. This memoir reveals her history through chapters identified by fashion items that have been important to her, such as gifts from famous designers, jewelry, and thrift store finds. Her tales of meeting celebrities like Stevie Wonder, Madonna, Oscar de la Renta, Kate Moss, and Keith Richards are interesting. It was also fascinating to learn that she started as an actress before training s a mime. While being a fairly light read, this book helped me to realize how much she influenced my interest in fashion while I was growing up in a small town in the Gulf Islands.

[Ruby D · Rating 5 out of 5]

I grew up watching fashion television, and Jeanne always felt like a second mother guiding me through the world of style. Reading her book now, as an adult living in a city that isn’t exactly known for its fashion, felt like coming home. It was a pure joy! It is a reminder of why personal style matters and how it shapes who we are. Jeanne’s voice is as inspiring and comforting on the page as it was on screen. This book rekindled my love for self-expression and reminded me that style is not about where you live, but how you choose to show up in the world. A beautiful, nostalgic, and empowering read.

[Kat]

This is a collection of stories, rather than one book. She jumps around in time a lot so you could read any chapter in almost any order. Some of her stories are interesting and she seems like a great person, someone I would like in person so it was nice to hear a few stories from her life.

The most interesting parts for me were the chapter about her family’s history during the holocaust and the chapter where she and her left wing daughter stayed at Steven Harper’s house. Again though, the stories are only 2-3 pages each so they’re not very in-depth.

[Mike Broderick · Rating 3 out of 5]

I did not care much about her connections to wardrobe. However, she has enough awesome relationships to keep a reader interested. Paul McCartney, The Stones, Madonna, Toller Cranston. She has lived a good life. That gave her the opportunity to write about some pretty cool experiences. The Audiobook has many annoying parts (her voice is very annoying when using it as the voice for others) and it is not particularly well read. However, a short book, enough cool experiences that some may like it.

[Enid Wray]

I am definitely not the reader for this title. Not sure what I was expecting, but this isn’t it. I will admit also that I never ever watched Much Music or Fashion TV or any of the like growing up.

Thanks to the publisher and Edelweiss for granting me access to an early digital copy. Apologies for the delay in getting this post up.

DNF

[Tania Dosenberger · Rating 4 out of 5]

From someone who grew up watching Jeanne on Fashion Television, I adored the stories of the fashion, the stars and how Jeanne interacted with them. Each small story tells about a particular piece of clothing, or an accessory or some other interesting part of her colourful life. Thanks for sharing this.

[Kim · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a great read. I loved reading about Jeanne's greatest stories that captured her heart and left her with touching memories.

Her cancer journey was inspiring she handled it with such grace and kindness towards her caregivers.

This book was a journey through a life well lived by a woman who has so much more living left to do. I, for one, can't wait to see what she does next.

[Patti Lauzon · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book. It was the perfect combination of heartfelt memories mixed with insights into the fashion and entertainment world of the 1980's to present. Fashion Television and the New Music were two staples in my television watching schedule. I looked up to Jeanne and always envied her confidence and style. It was a pleasure to read her personal stories.

[Cindy.Sherban · Rating 3 out of 5]

I had heard snippets of many of the vignettes in this book. Jeanne writes in a positive vein. I enjoyed hearing her in a different setting than fashion when she was on Canada Reads. I was also interested to see that Nita Prose had a hand in this book. If you have enjoyed Jeanne Beker you will enjoy this selection of stories she shares.

[Nola · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was a sweet little book that brought the nostalgia if you were a kid watching Fashion Television in the 80s! I enjoyed that each chapter was an item of clothing that marked an important time in her life and the book overall really showed how important those small items can be to your overall self confidence and what you project to the world.

[Tgandco2 · Rating 3 out of 5]

Good not great. I feel like there was so much more in Becker’s career than what is in this book. Having said that she is a Canadian icon and it was interesting to hear her experiences related to her wardrobe. Worth reading

[LKool · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jeanne's voice is so calming and reminds me of my youth, growing up watching fashion television.
What an amazing career and life! Loved how this book took a different take on a story telling Jeanne's life and life lessons - each piece was meaningful and told a story!

[Dianne Gow · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jeanne what an amazing book! What an amazing life the good and the bad. Keep being a warrior!!!