Banks penning young-adult novel series

NEW YORK, May 11 (UPI) -- Delacorte Press says it has acquired "Modelland," the first novel in a three-book series written by U.S. model and television personality Tyra Banks.

The announcement was made Tuesday by Beverly Horowitz, vice president and publisher of Delacorte Press.

The publishers described the book as being about "a teen girl in a make-believe society who finds herself competing for a way of life that's both hotly desired and woefully out of reach at an academy for Intoxibellas, the most exceptional models known to humankind."

Executive editor Wendy Loggia acquired the three-book series for Delacorte from Andy McNicol of William Morris Endeavor Entertainment.

Loggia, editor of the bestselling series "Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants" by Ann Brashares and "Fallen" by Lauren Kate, will also edit Banks's books.

"When we read the proposal, we immediately loved it," Loggia said in a statement. "That it was from an icon like Tyra Banks made it a publishing opportunity like none other. Readers will be drawn to the books for the very same reasons they love Tyra -- her adventuresome spirit, her sincere desire to empower females of all ages, and her unique success in the fashion world are very much present in the story. 'Modelland' is hands-down the fiercest thing Delacorte will be publishing in 2011."

"We're delighted to partner with Tyra," added Horowitz. "Tyra is passionate about reading and in 'Modelland' she combines a powerful and positive message with a fun and surreal story that will resonate with readers of all ages."