Tyra Banks is set to bring a fresh perspective to her debut novel, *Modelland*, with the upcoming release of its first audiobook edition. Originally published in 2011, the fantasy-dystopian tale has captivated audiences since its inception. Now, 15 years later, Banks will lend her voice to the more than 50 characters featured in this extensive audio version, which spans a remarkable 19 hours.
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In a recent statement, Banks, who is also the creator of the hit series *America’s Next Top Model*, expressed her surprise at the journey she has undertaken with *Modelland*. “I never in a trillion years imagined when I was writing *Modelland* that one day I’d literally have to become the entire crazy world,” she remarked, reflecting on the challenge of bringing her characters to life in such a unique way.
The story centres around Tookie De La Crème, a “gawky” young girl who unexpectedly receives an invitation to *Modelland*, an enigmatic locale perched high atop a mountain. Here, seven young women are annually selected to become “Intoxibellas.” As Tookie grapples with various trials to demonstrate her worthiness, she begins to unravel the mystery that lies beneath the surface of this seemingly glamorous setting.
Banks has noted a resurgence of interest in *Modelland* over the summer, prompting her to revisit the narrative in a recording studio. The experience has proven to be both taxing and exhilarating for Banks, who described the process as “grueling.” Hours spent in the recording booth led to sore throats and backaches, yet she found the endeavour to be “kind of magical.” For Banks, her characters had long existed in her imagination, and hearing them come to life through her voice was a transformative experience.
While narrating, Banks immerses herself deeply in the world she has created, stating, “When I’m writing it, I’m not sitting at a desk imagining a place. I’m THERE.” This level of engagement allows her to translate the essence of her story directly to her audience. The environments, such as Tookie’s quirky house and the vibrant town square, are not mere figments of her creativity; they feel palpably real to her.
An exclusive clip from the upcoming audiobook was revealed, tantalisingly hinting at the diverse range of characters Banks will embody in the recording. Her ability to shift between voices is set to add an extra layer of depth to the storytelling, making the experience a dynamic one for listeners.
The audiobook edition of *Modelland* is scheduled for release on 3 November 2023, and fans can pre-order it from various retailers. As Banks reflects on the challenges and joys of narrating her own work, she cannot help but chuckle. “But here we are. And it’s bananas!” she exclaimed, encapsulating the spirit of her journey with this project.
In a world where audiobook adaptations are becoming increasingly popular, Banks’s commitment to her characters and narrative is commendable. With her unique insights as both the author and narrator, listeners are poised for an engaging experience as they traverse the whimsical yet poignant landscape of *Modelland*.
As anticipation builds for the audiobook release, it remains evident that Tyra Banks’s foray into the realm of fiction continues to inspire and entertain. Her artistic evolution, rooted in her experiences as a model and television personality, now extends into the literary world, inviting audiences to explore a realm filled with wonder, challenges, and deeper truths.