cover image Brunette Ambition

Brunette Ambition

Lea Michele. Crown Archetype, $21 (224p) ISBN 978-0-8041-3907-6

Best known for her role as Rachel Berry on the award-winning Fox series Glee, actress and singer Michele offers a hybrid memoir, cookbook, and fitness and style guide, sprinkled with lists of favorites, Dos & Don’ts, and fan q&as. Bronx-raised Michele discusses her role models (and her first time meeting Barbra Streisand), and her family and childhood, including details about juggling “normal school” life with performing on Broadway (Les Misérables, Ragtime, Fiddler on the Roof, Spring Awakening). The middle of the book presents tips on taking care of one’s body (health, diet, fitness, makeup) and balancing everyday style with red carpet glamour. Readers learn about home spa treatments, a recipe for a DIY hair masque, Michele’s food regimen (with easy-to-follow, illustrated pescatarian recipes), and basic exercises. Michele’s warm, easygoing tone and colorful anecdotes will appeal to her devoted fan base. Full-color photos throughout. Agent: Jennifer Rudolph Walsh, William Morris Endeavor. (May)