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This Year’s Model

Carol Alt
Avon (2008)
ISBN 9780061366246
Reviewed by Kam Aures for RebeccasReads (5/08)

While waiting tables in Morristown, New Jersey, Melody Ann Croft is discovered by a photographer who tells her that she is perfect model material, and jots down some numbers of the top agencies, telling her to pursue it further.  Planning on attending college, not sure on a scholarship coming through, and also recently separated from her boyfriend, Melody Ann decides to go for it and books an interview with Delicious Models. 

Francesca DeLongue at Delicious takes one glance at her and immediately snatches her up as one of the agency’s models.  Melody Ann is sent the very next day on a go-see to Teen Vogue as they are in need of a brunette immediately for a photo shoot.  Even though the photographer at the shoot is not too thrilled with her, deeming her too heavy, the shoot goes on and is the start of Melody Ann’s career as a model.  At the shoot Melody Ann meets a fellow model named Jade Bishop, who will soon become her friend.  She also picks up the nickname “Mac” which will stick with her in the modeling world and replace her given name.

Carol Alt definitely writes this book from experience as, among other notable accomplishments, she has been a cover model on over seven-hundred magazines.  At the end of the book there is a section that includes advice from Carol, including tips on how to prepare for a meeting with a modeling agent, and a question and answer section.  Carol also is a big proponent of the raw food diet and has even authored books on the subject.  In fact this influence is even present in this novel, as there are references to the importance of proper nutrition inserted into the story here and there.

I found “This Year’s Model” to be a very enjoyable, fast-paced book.  I always find it interesting when a celebrity decides to author a book, because I like to see whether or not his or her talent carries over into print.  In this case, the talent is definitely there!  The book is very well-written and will hold your attention from start to finish.  Anyone who is a fan of the current modeling reality shows, a fan of Carol Alt, or just someone who enjoys an engaging, fast read, will enjoy this book!

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