Rachel Renée Russell’s middle-grade Dork Diaries novels are bestsellers both in the U.S. and abroad, but can the series become a chart-topper in the music world, too? On September 20, Russell will release Dork Diaries The Music: Pop Star, a music album that retails for $2.97 and will be available through retailers including Amazon and iTunes.
The album features three songs performed by Russell’s 14-year-old niece, Shania, who covers Amy Grant’s “Baby, Baby,” Jason Mraz’s “I’m Yours,” and Michael Jackson’s “Ben.” The songs are favorites of the author, and also tie in thematically to the books. Depending on fan reception to Pop Star, Russell may release subsequent albums.
The third book in the series, Dork Diaries 3: Tales From a NOT-So-Talented Pop Star (S&S/Aladdin) was published in June, and has protagonist Nikki Maxwell entering a school talent competition. There are currently more than 3.5 million copies of the Dork Diaries books in print in North America.
