Illustrated book cover showing two stylish South Asian girls posing confidently against a bright floral background. One wears bangles and raises her henna-decorated hand; the other wears sunglasses and a pink top. The title “Starlet Rivals” appears in large pink script, with a “Bollywood Academy 1” badge at the top.

Starlet Rivals

Bollywood Academy Book One

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Illustrated by

Translated by

About this story

Bela has always dreamed about becoming a famous Bollywood star. Can she win the Dance Starz competition to bag a place at the Bollywood Academy and move one step closer to her dreams of stardom?

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Book Details

12-year-old Bela has always dreamed about becoming a famous Bollywood star, and now the opportunity might finally be within her grasp. When a reality TV show gives her the chance to dance in front of the nation, she knows that she is performing for a place at the most prestigious stage school in Mumbai.

Can Bela win the Dance Starz competition to bag a place at the Bollywood Academy and move one step closer to her dreams of stardom? And will child star Monica, the most "in" girl at school, see her as a friend or a rival?

“A deliciously readable addition to the stage-school story canon for song-and-dance fans of 7+.”
— The Guardian, July 2022 Book of the Month

“This is everything readers could want – dream come true film opportunities, stays in the most glamorous locations, new friendships and the tiniest hint of romance. Young readers who love Ballet Shoes or The Swish of the Curtain, or who dream of stage stardom, or those who just love stories with great characters in exciting situations, they’ll all devour this new series. Applause all round!”
— LoveReading4Kids July 2022 Debut of the Month

“Not only is the book bursting with glamour and excitement, it also has thoughtful messages about the perils of the limelight and the importance of doing the right thing. A delightful page-turner.”
— BookTrust