Synopsis: Have you ever wondered how Tyra Banks moved from runway princess to chat show queen or what Lily Cole was doing before she was spotted? 21st Century achievements of these inspirational figures and offers advice about how to become a supermodel.

Review: I can honestly say I have never previously seen a book on this topic, so I was intrigued to find out why this might be a suitable addition to a bookcase. The selection of models is eclectic – both genders and a range of ethnicities are represented. Each “story” is covered by a double page spread which covers the inevitable demographic facts but also draws attention to the lesser-known facts that better fit the inspirational label. For example other aspects of the models’ lives are covered: charity (Gisele and Marcus Schenkenberg), career longevity (Twiggy) and how non-stereotypical supermodel looks can break they mould (Erin and Alex Wek). There is also a thread running through addressing the different perspectives on the “weight” issue. There is coverage of those who are criticised, despite their protestations to be naturally skinny and those who have fought high profile campaigns against size zero pressures. At the end I was certainly more familiar with a variety of supermodels (should I admit that previously I did not know there were males ones?).

I was left wondering how this might relate to the curriculum. Citizenship springs to mind – there are “rights” elements covered and examples of “good citizenship”. The claim about advice on becoming a supermodel was not followed through, so I won’t be giving up my day job just yet, nor suggesting this book for our careers section!

The series which includes other titles such as millionaires; footballers and DJs & MCs, can provide a set of useful studies for issues such as discrimination, stereotyping and pressure groups with the distinct advantage that they are high profile people that many teenagers will be aware of and may relate to better than the more traditional examples in textbooks.

2008-04-04