American Idol Finalist Sanjaya Malakar Tells All in New Book

One of the most popular contestants ever to appear on American Idol gives his fans an all-access pass to the wildly successful television show - and opens up about how becoming an Idol star changed his life forever.

New York, NY (PRWEB) January 19, 2009

Best known for his impressive hairstyles and screaming young fans--Fanjayas--, Sanjaya Malakar quickly became a one-name sensation and "the people's idol." His unique style and ingenious song selections made him a media fixture and led to a huge and devoted fanbase that still remains today. Sanjaya takes readers back to where it all began, in his new memoir DANCING TO THE MUSIC IN MY HEAD: Memoirs of the People's Idol (Pocket Books; February 2009; $19.99).

Sanjaya treats readers to a behind-the-scenes look at his unlikely rise to fame on one of the biggest shows on television. Among his revelations:

• a step-by-step recount of his audition process and week-by-week analysis of his time on the show
• pointers and inspiration from musical mentors Diana Ross and Jennifer Lopez
• the ponyhawk: did consecutive ponytails save him from elimination?
• "J" the anti-fan who went on a sixteen day hunger strike to vote Sanjaya off
• Ashley Ferl: why she couldn't stop crying during Sanjaya's performances

To schedule an interview or to request a review copy, please contact Ayelet Gruenspecht at 212-698-7093 or ayelet.gruenspecht @ simonandschuster.com.

ABOUT THE AUTHORS:
Sanjaya Malakar became a household name on American Idol's sixth season as his eager fans voted for the teenager to return to the stage week after week. To keep up with the world of Sanjaya, visit http://www.sanjayamalakar.com.

Alan Goldsher is the author of seven books, including Modest Mouse: A Pretty Good Read, and as a ghostwriter, he has collaborated with numerous celebrities and public figures. He invites readers to visit http://www.alangoldsher.com.

DANCING TO THE MUSIC IN MY HEAD: Memoirs of the People's Idol
By Sanjaya Malakar with Alan Goldsher
Publisher: Pocket Books
Publication Date: January 20, 2009
Price: $19.99
ISBN: 1-4391-3614-9

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