New York Debut

It's time to announce which lucky models will make their big New York debut next week. The girls all let out an excited cheer... and suddenly DJ felt really concerned. What would happen when Taylor showed up? Or would Taylor even show up? Either scenario seemed packed full of potential problems.

Book: New York Debut by Melody Carlson, 2009

Genre: Modern Realistic Fiction
Target Audience: Girls 15-19
Subjects: Friendships, dating relationships, annorexia
Summary: The Carter House Girls will be modeling in New York for Fashion Week and the house is a buzz. Not only are the Carter House Girls going, but two others are going as well. As they start preparing though, DJ and some of the others realize that Kriti is having serious problems and starting to dabble in annorexia. Then as they start helping some of their friends prepare and work to get chosen, DJ learns that Taylor is planning on coming back from rehab, but is sworn to secrecy about it. Slight problem here. That means only 1 of the 2 girls chosen will actually get to go, because Grandmother will definitely pick Taylor. DJ doesn't know what to do. How can she encourage her friends to work for something she knows they can not acheive? But how can she not encourage them without revealing Taylor's secret?
Notes: I liked a discussion at the end of this book. A character has become a believer, but hasn't told anyone, afraid she won't be able to change enough and will be viewed as a hypocrite. DJ explains that everyone messes up sometimes, but turning to God is what makes you a Christian, not being perfect.
Recommendation Scale: 4
Reviewer: J:-)mi