The book focuses on Crystal Brown, a 16-year-old African American girl who is destined for stardom when she lands a contract with a modeling agency.

She lives with her mother, Mrs. Brown, who is also beautiful, and her loving, but strict father.

Her friendship with her best friend, Pat, is suffering, her grades are slipping, and on top of all of that, Crystal feels her self-respect is at risk.

Her agent, Loretta, however, insists Crystal star in a movie that will ultimately boost her fame.

He says: "...Edward Abruzzi, Photographer...I think you could get into modeling...” National Book Award Finalist