Bedtime Stories for Madonna
We’re all used to some Madonna-style “shock-and-awe.” Next week, the controversial and provocative singer turned material mom steps forward as a first-time writer of children’s books.
“The English Roses” – the first title in Madonna’s five-book series published by privately held Callaway Editions – comes out Monday in what is expected to be a headline-grabbing release.
However, publishing industry insiders aren’t waging any bets — yet — on her latest venture, even though they agree its welcome publicity for the children’s book market.
“Anything she does is big, bold and spirited and we’re very excited about the book,” said Emily Glassman, spokeswoman for No. 1 book retailer Amazon.com, which last week gave its customers access to an exclusive audio message about the book recorded by Madonna.
“The pre-order sales indicate it will get a very strong reception,” said Glassman. “It’s already in our Top 50 list of most ordered books.” The retailer is selling the book for $13.97, a 30 percent discount.
What the illustrated storybook series is about is a tightly guarded secret. Even the picture of the book cover on Amazon.com is not the final version.
After all, what’s Madonna without the hype? Remember her smooches last week with pop stars Britney Spears and Christina Aguilera at the MTV Video Music Awards?
Nevertheless, the material girl is poised to make publishing history. “The English Roses” comes out in more than 100 countries, in more than 30 language editions.
Source: CNN/Money