Models Don't Eat Chocolate Cookies: Erin Dionne

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Reading level: Ages 9-12
Paperback: 256 pages
Publisher: Dial (February 5, 2009)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0803732961
ASIN: B004NSVEUK
Product Dimensions: 7.7 x 5.1 x 0.9 inches
Shipping Weight: 8 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)

When Celeste’s meddling aunt enters her in the Miss Husky Peach Pageant for “larger sized girls,” the eighth-grader quails at the thought of the teasing that’s sure to follow, though the idea of modeling has its appeal. Reasoning that if she loses enough weight, she’ll be ineligible for the contest, Celeste finds the motivation to skip snacks and even to exercise. Along the way, she begins to express her individuality through the unlikely vehicle of a beauty contest. Successes, flops, humiliations, and recoveries are all part of the pageant process, and even girls who don’t see themselves as potential models will enjoy Celeste’s account of her experiences. The wry first-person narrative also provides convincing views of middle-school friendships, family dynamics, and incremental personal growth. The ending may be a bit too rosy for absolute realism, but readers rooting for Celeste won’t complain. A light, well-paced first novel. Grades 6-8. --Carolyn Phelan Review It's a clever premise...engaging [scenes]...readers will warm to Celeste. --Kirkus ReviewsThe wry, funny tone makes this book a pleasurable read, and teens of all body types will enjoy Celeste's original voice. --School Library Journal Models Don't Eat Chocolate Cookies: Erin Dionne