Violet On The Runway - Melissa Walker

Violet On The Runway
Melissa Walker
Berkley Jam

Young Adult

Violet Greenfield feels like a freak. When she hit six feet during her junior year of high school, she figured that would be it. But, no; now starting her senior year, she’s gained another inch. And she’s super-skinny, too. But on this first day of school, Violet is keeping a secret, even from her best friends, Roger and Julie. While working her usual shift at the movie theater, Violet was sort of ‘discovered’ by an agent from Tryst Models. The agent, Angela, gave Violet her card, and told her to call anytime to set up a meeting in New York.

When Violet breaks the news to her parents, they’re more supportive than she imagined. And, by the weekend, she’s in New York, having a makeover and shopping for clothes before meeting designers at go-sees for Fashion Week. Her success leads to bigger things, and a move to New York. She’s leaving her lifelong friends for a chance at the glamorous world of modeling. Wallflower Violet is about to take on New York. But, can she take New York?

Violet is great. She’s someone that anyone who’s ever been to high school can relate to and sympathize with, especially those not in the “in” crowd. The author not only knows and understands what it’s like to be a teenager; her work at several magazines gives her a great insight on the fashion world, as well. Some of the things that Violet has to confront are dark, but they’re realistic. This story is complete in itself, but the ending makes it clear that there’s more to come.

Rating: 7
September 2007
ISBN# 978-0-425-21704-7 (paperback)