Idol Gossip

Praise

This is a fast-paced, captivating inside look at what lies behind the glitz of the K-pop industry. Alice’s road to fame highlights cultural differences, self-discovery, sisterhood, and empathy. The narrative is laced with blog posts that help move the story forward and give background information. . . . An entertaining read unveiling the people behind K-pop glam.
—Kirkus Reviews

Young aptly conveys Alice’s difficulties as the group’s youngest member, navigating life away from her family and deciphering the implicit rules of the K-pop world. . . . readers interested in the inner workings of idol groups will enjoy this entertaining inside look.
—Publishers Weekly

An entertaining romp through the world of K-pop. . . . K-pop and YA fans alike will find much to enjoy in this deep dive into fan ­culture and the music industry. . . . A fun glimpse into what happens when your dreams of fame come true, great for fans of Maurene Goo, Anna Carey, and Jessica Jung.
—School Library Journal

This compelling and unique story is perfect for K-pop fans or for those who are interested in the music industry and the price of fame. Interspersed between chapters readers get a chance to read the blog of a media influencer named “V” and get a first-hand look at how they use the blog to spread gossip. This title would work well as a literature circle fiction choice to support informational text readings on the price of fame or K-pop culture.
—School Library Connection

I absolutely loved this story about a Chinese American girl taking the K-pop world by storm! Watching Alice break boundaries and chase after her dreams with fun and flair makes for an energetic, thoroughly entertaining read.
—Axie Oh, author of XOXO and the New Visions Award winner Rebel Seoul

A fun, insidery look at the fascinating world of K-pop stardom.
—Leila Sales, author of This Song Will Save Your Life

A smart and sassy K-pop rabbit hole. Once I started reading, I couldn’t stop. Each page thrums with stage fright, scandal, and a healthy dose of sweetness and joy.
—Jad Abumrad, host and producer of WNYC’s Radiolab

In Idol Gossip, Alexandra Leigh Young delivers a thrilling behind-the-scenes journey into the heart of K-pop and a poignant story of self-discovery. It’s a tale of nail-biting auditions, unforgiving instructors, improbable friendships, and, above all, the transcendent power of music.
—Michael Barbaro, host of the New York Times podcast The Daily