Crowned

By Julie Linker

Book Overview

Smile. Wave. Dominate. Presley loves the pageant world. She knows how to work the crowd and looks gorgeous in an evening gown. But really, she needs the pageant world -- for its scholarships and opportunities. The only thing standing in her way? Her archrival, Megan, who was practically born wearing a crown and sash. Megan may be the nastiest girl on the circuit, but she has one thing that Presley doesn't: connections. And she won't hesitate to use them. What happens when two girls will stop at nothing -- including scandalous Internet pictures, vicious message board rumors, or "accidentally" ruined hair -- to be crowned the winner? Strap on your stilettos and tuck in those shoulder pads...it's going to be a bumpy ride.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 141696052X
• ISBN13: 9781416960522
• Release Date: November 2008
• Publisher: Simon Pulse
• Length: 290 Pages
• Weight: 0.60 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.9" x 5.5" x 8.0"
• Age Range: 14 years and up
• Grade Range: Grade 9 and higher

Customer Reviews

Obviously a chick flick

Crowned provides an entertaining read of the struggles experienced by a pageant princess. Although the characteristics of the protagonist illustrate a rather superficial image, the inner, more in-depth conflict within her family, proves there is more than the glamour on the surface. Though the author attempts a twist in the end, the plot is, in a way, fully predictable and so well-put there leaves no realistic flaw or defeat to the character. The characters themselves, aside from the main, carry vague and stereotypical personalities that remain static though the book such as the rival queen, Megan.

From School Library Journal

"It's good versus evil in the beauty pageant game, with good being represented by Presley Ashbury and evil by her archrival, wealthy Megan Leighton. After years of standing on stage near one another with fake smiles, spray-on tans, and hair extensions, Megan finally crosses the backstabbing line in her quest to be Miss Teen State. But Presley has even more at stake. As the daughter of a below-the-poverty-line single mother, she needs the scholarship money to attend college. And since academics aren't her forte, Presley must rely on her megawatt smile and dancing ability to win. This funny, behind-the-scenes novel will appeal to teens who enjoy reality shows such as Dancing With the Stars and American Idol, or Miss America pageants. Linker has a sure touch with teen dialogue and it's clear that she knows her beauty pageants. This is a quick, enjoyable read for fans of Cecily von Ziegesar's "Gossip Girl" series (Little, Brown), and it has better-developed characters." --Susan Riley, Mount Kisco Public Library, NY

Smart, charming, and witty

Presley Ashbury is passionate about pageants. You know the kind: the swimsuit contest, talent show, evening gowns, and tiaras all around. Presley is quite good at them, and not just because she likes looking pretty in the spotlight (though that is a perk): she needs the scholarship money that goes with winning the crown. But just two weeks before the Miss Teen State pageant, her nemesis and all around evil girl Megan Leighton is already on a mission to ensure Presley's defeat. Presley isn't the kind to take that kind of treatment lying down, but she will have to find a happy medium between getting even and acting like a lady if she has any chance at all of wearing the crown. Crowned is one drama-filled, sparkling, and hilarious read. Presley is a vibrant and energetic character whose realistic and dramatic narration will enrapture the audience and is sure to illicit many giggles. But the book isn't all giggles and glitter: Crowned deals with some tough issues, like underage drinking, and the effect it can have on a person's image, bullying, as well as the dangers of posting pictures on the internet that will hopefully make an impression on readers. At the center of the story is Presley's struggle to deal with her enemy and how difficult it is to get along with Megan. Readers will be happy know that despite whatever thoughts Presley may have about Megan, she doesn't stoop to her level, which leaves a lasting and positive impression. Crowned is a cute and fun read that not only debunks a few misconceived perceptions of beauty pageants, but is a book that reminds readers that life's low points don't last forever, and success comes in many different forms.