By Bianca Schulze, The Children’s Book Review
Published: May 11, 2010
boo·ka·raz·zi: A freelance blogger who pursues celebrities who read books, to create posts that promote children’s literature.
In Tyra Banks’ pursuit to connect with women and teenage girls on issues ranging from relationships to body image, she has created a three-book series titled MODELLAND. The first novel in her debut series will be published by Delacorte Press (an imprint of Random House) in Summer 2011. Based on Tyra’s media presence alone, this series is certain to be an instant bestseller.
…Drawing from an area of expertise she is avidly passionate about, Tyra’s MODELLAND is the story of a teen girl in a make-believe society who finds herself competing for a way of life that’s both hotly desired and woefully out of reach at an academy for Intoxibellas, the most exceptional models known to humankind. As the plot unfolds, readers will uncover lessons that are buried beneath the surface of this magical world. The premise of the 3-part fantasy series is deeply rooted in Tyra’s core mission of expanding the definitions of beauty….
…Executive Editor Wendy Loggia, editor of the bestselling series Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants by Ann Brashares and Fallen by Lauren Kate, will also edit Banks. “When we read the proposal, we immediately loved it,” says Loggia. “That it was from an icon like Tyra Banks made it a publishing opportunity like none other. Readers will be drawn to the books for the very same reasons they love Tyra—her adventuresome spirit, her sincere desire to empower females of all ages, and her unique success in the fashion world are very much present in the story. MODELLAND is hands-down the FIERCEST thing Delacorte will be publishing in 2011.”
“We’re delighted to partner with Tyra,” says Horowitz. “Tyra is passionate about reading and in MODELLAND she combines a powerful and positive message with a fun and surreal story that will resonate with readers of all ages.”…
Random House, Press Release: New York, NY, May 11, 2010