PERHAPS A GIFT VOUCHER FOR MUM?: MOTHER'S DAY
Alexandra Leigh Young currently produces the New York Times podcast The Daily. She produced tours for pop bands for three years before moving to South Korea as a freelance journalist. An assignment on K-pop for NPR's Radiolab became the basis for Idol Gossip, her first novel for young adults. She lives in New York City.
This is a fast-paced, captivating inside look at what lies behind the glitz of the K-pop industry. Alice's road to fame highlights cultural differences, self-discovery, sisterhood, and empathy. The narrative is laced with blog posts that help move the story forward and give background information. . . . An entertaining read unveiling the people behind K-pop glam. -Kirkus Reviews Young aptly conveys Alice's difficulties as the group's youngest member, navigating life away from her family and deciphering the implicit rules of the K-pop world. . . . readers interested in the inner workings of idol groups will enjoy this entertaining inside look. -Publishers Weekly This compelling and unique story is perfect for K-pop fans or for those who are interested in the music industry and the price of fame. Interspersed between chapters readers get a chance to read the blog of a media influencer named V and get a first-hand look at how they use the blog to spread gossip. This title would work well as a literature circle fiction choice to support informational text readings on the price of fame or K-pop culture. -School Library Connection I absolutely loved this story about a Chinese American girl taking the K-pop world by storm! Watching Alice break boundaries and chase after her dreams with fun and flair makes for an energetic, thoroughly entertaining read. -Axie Oh, author of XOXO and the New Visions Award winner Rebel Seoul A fun, insidery look at the fascinating world of K-pop stardom. -Leila Sales, author of This Song Will Save Your Life A smart and sassy K-pop rabbit hole. Once I started reading, I couldn't stop. Each page thrums with stage fright, scandal, and a healthy dose of sweetness and joy. -Jad Abumrad, host and producer of WNYC's Radiolab In Idol Gossip, Alexandra Leigh Young delivers a thrilling behind-the-scenes journey into the heart of K-pop and a poignant story of self-discovery. It's a tale of nail-biting auditions, unforgiving instructors, improbable friendships, and, above all, the transcendent power of music. -Michael Barbaro, host of the New York Times podcast The Daily
