Short Synopsis
Funny and fearless, Tales from the Back Row is a keenly observed collection of personal essays about what it's really like to be a young woman working in the fashion industry.

Full Synopsis
In Tales from the Back Row, Cosmopolitan.com editor Amy Odell takes listeners behind the stage of New York's hottest fashion shows to meet the world's most influential models, designers, celebrities, editors, and photographers. But first, she has to push her way through the crowds outside, where we see the lengths people go to be noticed by the lurking paparazzi, and weave her way through the packed venue, from the very back row to the front.

As she describes the allure of Alexander Wang's ripped tights and Marchesa's Oscar-worthy dresses, Amy artfully layers in something else: ultimately this book is about how the fashion industry is an exaggerated mirror of human fallibility—reflecting our desperate desire to belong, to make a mark, to be included. For Amy is the first to admit that as much as she is embarrassed by the thrill she gets when she receives an invitation to an exclusive after-party, she can’t help but RSVP "yes."

"Tales From the Back Row takes you from the hottest fashion shows to the coolest after parties, along the decidedly unglamorous roads Amy Odell travels to get there. Don't miss this terrific debut. It's better than landing the most coveted seat at fashion week." ---Lauren Weisberger, author of Revenge Wears Prada

"Tales From the Back Row is a delicious peek behind the curtain of fame and fashion. Amy Odell doesn't pull any punches---not at the industry, the celebrities circling it, or even at herself---and her insider dish will make you laugh out loud." ---The Fug Girls

"A sharply amusing fashion memoir." ---Kirkus

"Hilarious, insightful and smart. A must-read for anyone who wears clothes." ---Chelsea Handler

"Just delicious." ---Book Riot