Mattel Publishing has revealed a major new literary project, joining forces with million-selling author Alex Aster for a young adult novel starring the iconic Barbie.
A Magical Coming-of-Age Journey
The novel, titled "Barbie: Dreamscape," is scheduled for release on 28 July 2026. This marks the first young adult novel from the Mattel Publishing imprint since its launch three years ago. The story is described as a fantasy coming-of-age tale, completely separate from the blockbuster 2023 Barbie film, with no screen adaptation currently in the works.
In Dreamscape, Barbie's adventure begins at the enchanted Swancrest Academy. During her graduation ceremony, she is shockingly declared "Fateless." To change her destiny, she must embark on a perilous quest across magical and treacherous lands. Her mission is to find the mysterious beings who control the fates of everyone in Heartland and uncover hidden truths that could alter her world forever.
"Because to forge her own path, Barbie must step out of the box ... and into the unknown," the announcement from Mattel stated.
Expanding the Mattel Universe
This project is a key part of Mattel Publishing's strategy to develop its extensive catalogue of family entertainment brands, which also includes franchises like Hot Wheels and Polly Pocket, into new literary ventures. The announcement follows closely on the heels of another diversity-focused initiative from Mattel Inc.: the launch of an autistic Barbie doll as part of its Fashionistas line.
Author Alex Aster's Personal Connection
For author Alex Aster, famed for the Lightlark series and the adult novel Summer in the City, the project is a full-circle moment. Aster, a popular figure on social media, shared that Barbie dolls played a formative role in her own childhood imagination.
"I spent countless hours making up stories starring each of my dolls, and I still remember the excitement of opening a new box, adding another character to my tales, marveling at each accessory," she said in a statement.
This partnership signals Mattel's continued push to evolve the Barbie brand into new narrative realms, targeting an older audience of young adult readers with a standalone, magical fantasy epic.
