Alex Aster Pens First Barbie Novel, 'Dreamscape'

Alex Aster, known for her young adult romantasy series, has released her tenth published book, "Barbie: Dreamscape," which is also Mattel's first official Barbie novel. Aster reflected on how playing with Barbie as a child fostered her creativity and instilled lessons she still carries at age 31. She aimed to capture that same childlike wonder and fearlessness in her new book.

The creation of "Barbie: Dreamscape" involved drawing inspiration from a wide range of Barbie's history. Aster looked to old computer games, animated movies, and even current Mattel products for ideas. She found that the limitations of writing within an established brand actually fueled her creativity. Mattel's "laissez-faire" approach ensured Aster had full freedom to write the story she envisioned, fostering a successful and collaborative partnership. The novel is designed for readers aged 12 and up, with Aster hoping it delivers a message of happiness and hope. She recalled making Barbie dresses from paper towels as a child, a memory that highlights the uninhibited imagination she wished to convey in her work. "Barbie: Dreamscape" is now available wherever books are sold.