Model Student

It's 1988, and 17-year-old Emily Woods is on the threshold of becoming both a student at Columbia University and a "run-of-the-mill six-figure"–earning model. So begins Yale grad and former model Hazelwood's debut, a revealing romp that has its share of catwalks, catfights and cocaine. Milwaukee-born Emily awkwardly climbs the modeling ranks after a photo shoot with a famous Chicago fashion photographer, discovering quickly the differences between catalogue, advertising and editorial (magazine) modeling; why eye makeup should be applied before foundation; and how to survive on Metamucil and Diet Coke. The dialogue is bright and authentic, and the pace is as breathless as Emily's ascent (or descent) into the modeling world. Despite the support her zany college friends offer, Emily slips further into modeling's dark side, dabbling with drugs, purging and the possibility of breast enhancement. An experienced model gives her the secret of success: "Become a bitch." Good advice, Emily knows, but can she follow it? This appealing character will have readers rooting for her all the way. (July)