Mattel is moving Barbie into a new category with the release of its first-ever young adult novel, Barbie: Dreamscape, written by New York Times bestselling author Alex Aster.
Published through Mattel Press, the company’s in-house publishing arm, the book is described as a coming-of-age fantasy in which Barbie attends an enchanted school and travels through magical lands in search of her “fate”.
Ryan Ferguson, global head of publishing at Mattel, described the collaboration as a “natural fit” for the brand.
“Alex Aster and Barbie are a natural pairing, and her personal affinity and genuine love for the brand shine through in a story that resonates with today’s young adult readers,” Ferguson said.
“As the brand’s first official novel, it offers fans another way to connect with Barbie through an epic fantasy that explores destiny and self-discovery, while marking a meaningful addition to our publishing slate.”
Aster said writing the book was a personal milestone.
“Playing with Barbie dolls was one of my first forms of storytelling and creative outlets as a kid,” she recalled.
“I spent countless hours making up stories starring each of my dolls, and I still remember the excitement of opening a new box, adding another character to my tales, and marveling at each accessory. I’m honored to write the first YA Barbie book, and can’t wait for readers to go on this journey of self-discovery with Barbie.”
The deal was negotiated by Jodi Reamer of Writers House LLC for Aster and Elana Cohen for Mattel.
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