Jan 20, 2012
In THE JERK MAGNET, the first installment in Melody Carlson’s Life at Kingston High series, high school student Chelsea Martin goes through a complex transformation when her stepmom gives her a makeover. Though at first Chelsea loves her new look, she soon realizes it’s attracting all the wrong guys --- and repelling potential friends. In this interview, conducted by Teenreads.com’s Michele Howe, Carlson discusses her reasons for writing about society’s obsession with outer beauty. She also offers insight into Chelsea’s character, shares her own opinions about beauty and self-esteem, and gives glimpses into her upcoming books.