Some Girls

January 21, 2010
This book's press release dubs it "more than a sexy read set in an exotic locale," as if Lauren had merely gone on a sun-drenched beach vacation and ended up finding a lover and finally, herself. Not even close. What readers really get is a deeply disturbing story of a good Jewish girl turned stripper/hooker, who, at 18, willingly heads to Brunei to join the harem of the Sultan's younger brother, Prince Jefri Bolkiah. It's The Bachelor: Brunei, with an extra helping of manipulation. It's hard to know what to make of all this, especially as Lauren is also a gifted writer and oddly sympathetic character. Compelling in a way you can't help but feel squeamish about enjoying. [Lauren is married to Scott Shriner, the bass player of Weezer.-Ed.]-Tania Barnes, Brooklyn, NY

Copyright 2010 Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

March 15, 2010
At the age of 19, Lauren was trying to get a fledgling acting career off the ground while working as a stripper and call girl. When the opportunity arises for several girls to travel to the island of Borneo to be a part of the harem of the Sultan of Bruneis youngest brother, Prince Jefri, for a few weeks, Lauren jumps at the opportunity. Telling her family shes headed overseas for an acting job, she travels to Brunei for what she thinks will be a diverting and exciting two weeks. Once she arrives at the expansive estate, Lauren finds her only duty is to attend lavish parties each night and hope that she will be the one chosen to steal away from the party with the prince. Two weeks turns into a year, and Lauren finds herself increasingly involved in the vicious competition for the princes attention. While the surprising and exotic subject matter is sure to pique interest, Laurens graceful, introspective prose lifts her unusual memoir far above the level of mere titillation.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2010, American Library Association.)