Model: A Memoir

I know some of the people and agencies (even the ones where she has changed the name to protect the guilty) in this book - and she nailed it. Cheryl's description of her agency is very accurate, and even though models with other agencies will have somewhat different experiences (not all fashion agencies are also partly scams), her discussion of what a model is likely to encounter as she enters the world of New York fashion modeling will be recognized by anyone who has tried it. Throughout the book she maintains a humorous detachment from all this, and the book is entertaining to read, as well as educational.

If you like America's Next Top Model, you'll love Cheryl Diamond's autobiography. Although classified as a teen book, possibly because the author was only sixteen during the episodes detailed in the book, I would consider this suitable for readers of any age who want a behind-the-scenes look at the world of New York modelling. Cheryl at sixteen is exceptionally level-headed and focused on her career. Cheryl's experience shows that you needn't use drugs, develop an eating disorder, or sleep your way to the top to become a successful model. It also shows aspiring models that they will probably start out poor, possibly even homeless and penniless, before getting their big break. As a young model, Cheryl is on top of the world one day and at the bottom of the heap the next, all at the whim of a particular agent or designer. In a word: fascinating!

I'm still amazed by this book. You never think of the whole model industry as being something that us ordinary folks can relate to, but then along comes this book, which tells about the ups and downs of the business in a voice that is convincing, fresh, and relatable. And all models are supposed to be little mindless bubble people, right? Well, think again, because Cheryl Diamond proves that not only is she stunningly beautiful, she is intelligent and talented too. Kind of makes me feel insufficient. Ha. But I think she deserves all the attention and credit she can get because she went through more struggles in the first 20 years of her life than what the rest of us experience in our entire lifetime. And that's really not an exaggeration. But the reality of the story isn't even the greatest thing about the book. The great thing is the writing. How a person who has never tried to write much can sit down and write a book like this one is beyond comprehension. Because not only is the writing smooth and captivating, it's blunt and doesn't leave out any of the hairy details that other books about modeling might. In Model, you really get to see the gruesome underside of an industry that is known for glamor and drama and that in itself is refreshing and interesting. I don't think I'll ever in a million years get wrapped up in anything related to modeling, so this book was probably the closest I'll ever get, and really, I'm fine with that because it was an amazing book. I highly suggest that if you haven't read it yet, you go out and do so ASAP. It'll be worth your every penny.

When she was just fourteen years old, Cheryl Diamond ventured to New York City to become a model. She experienced rejection after rejection until she finally found an agency that would offer her a contract. But then came September 11, and her agency went out of business before she could even land a job. At sixteen, Cheryl returned to New York, hoping for a second chance. She got it. Now she is faced with the task of building her portfolio and making a name for herself--no small job when the head booker is always giving her a rough time and the manager of her agency is seeking revenge on her for standing up to him and refusing to let him yank her around. But Cheryl is tough and sensible, and if anyone can make it in this ugly modeling business, she can. And she's making it...until one man lies to her, destroying her image and bringing her career to a screeching halt. Desolate, she's sent home. But she's determined to do what's unheard of in the modeling biz...make her comeback. Model: A Memoir will leave you shell shocked. Cheryl Diamond is an extraordinary young woman who is role model material for girls everywhere. Without succumbing to the many temptations models are exposed to on a daily basis (eating disorders, drinking, drugs, excessive partying) and without losing a grasp on her values (like refusing to change clothes in front of a roomful of people just to land a job), she has built her career without allowing herself to be bullied. Her novel is a whirlwind of shoots, castings, runway shows, and showdowns with her boss that besides being completely enthralling, are all true. Her writing style has the fast pace that is present in biographies and memoirs, but is as detailed and gripping as any work of fiction. Teens especially will delight in this resilient, strong, and intelligent heroine who is beautiful inside and out, and will eagerly anticipate more from this talented model and writer.

Cheryl Diamond's memoir, MODEL, offers readers a rare glimpse inside the modeling industry. In her teens, Diamond got a contract with an agency and moved out on her own to pursue a career in modeling. With her striking looks and natural blonde hair, she caught the attention of top designers and talent seekers, getting hired for photoshoots and runway shows most beginning models only dream of. As glamorous as that sounds, Diamond isn't afraid to reveal the less appealing side of modeling. From the two days she spent without a home while waiting for her first payment, to the bullying agency managers and clients and the illicit activities her fellow models get caught up in, she makes it clear there's a lot more to modeling than standing in front of the camera. But Diamond was able to stay true to herself despite fears and temptations, and ultimately the story is one of survival and hope. Anyone even a little curious about the modeling industry will find MODEL hard to put down. With Diamond's wry and humorous tone and her many exploits, it's as entertaining as it is informative. There's also much to admire in the fact that she managed to avoid the drug use, health issues, and nasty relationships that many of her co-workers fell victim to. A great voice, a great story, and a great message -- it all adds up to a great book. Reviewed by: Lynn Crow