Former EBONY editor-in-chief Amy DuBois Barnett has released her debut novel, “If I Ruled the World.” The book explores hip-hop’s 1990s golden era through the eyes of Black women in power. Already, the novel has secured a development deal with Hulu, with Lee Daniels attached to pen the adaptation.
The story focuses on the businesswomen navigating the media industry during hip-hop’s cultural zenith. These weren’t video vixens or reality TV stars, but power players making decisions inside the room. Their perspectives have been largely absent from the nostalgic narrative about this transformative era.
Drawing From Real Experience in Magazine Publishing
DuBois Barnett brings unique credibility to this fictional world through her impressive career. She served as editor-in-chief of EBONY, Teen People, and Honey magazines. Additionally, she worked as deputy editor at Harper’s Bazaar, experiencing firsthand the industry’s dynamics.
Her lived experience from the late nineties shapes every page of the novel. “The themes explored in the book feel more urgent than ever,” Barnett shared with EBONY. The story pulls back the curtain on when hip-hop reached its zenith of influence.
Hip-Hop’s Golden Era and Its Global Financial Impact
The 1990s represented hip-hop’s most powerful period of cultural dominance and mainstream acceptance. The genre’s reach extended across fashion, television, and publishing in unprecedented ways. Its influence demonstrated Black culture’s financial contributions on a scale never before witnessed.
“Hip-hop and music shaped culture, and the money surrounding it was felt throughout New York City, this country, and the world,” Barnett explained. This era marked a turning point for Black representation in mainstream media. However, the stories of women wielding power behind the scenes remained untold until now.
Hulu Adaptation Brings Vision to Screen
Barnett described her reaction to the Hulu deal as a mixture of excitement and pride. “The truth is, I’ve always seen this book on screen,” she revealed. Even while writing, she envisioned scenes playing out cinematically.
She always imagined the project as a television series rather than a film. “There are at least two seasons in the book and many more stories in my head from that era,” Barnett noted. The adaptation will allow for deeper exploration of characters and storylines spanning this pivotal period.
Breaking Barriers as Publishing’s First Black Woman Leader
DuBois Barnett became the first Black woman to run a major mainstream magazine. “Whenever you’re a first in any industry, you expect microaggressions and a lack of understanding,” she acknowledged. Nevertheless, she persevered to create opportunities for others.
Her legacy focused on bringing other Black women along with her. “I knew I would have to outperform everyone else,” she explained. Certain moments from her time at Harper’s Bazaar stayed with her, later finding their way into the largely fictional novel.
Confronting Ambition and Identity for Black Women
The protagonist, Nikki Rose, grapples with questions about sacrifice and self-compromise. “Black women are often shamed for ambition,” Barnett observed during the interview. She personally never subscribed to the idea of dimming her light for others’ comfort.
“For Nikki Rose, the journey is about figuring out who she’s willing to become,” Barnett explained. The character makes mistakes and gets messy along the way. However, things only come together when she fully embraces her authentic self.
Fifteen-Year Journey From Conception to Publication
Barnett started writing the book during her tenure as editor-in-chief of Teen People. Limited spare time made progress slow during those demanding years. She eventually put the manuscript down for approximately 15 years before returning to it.
The extended break provided valuable insight that strengthened the story significantly. She layered in themes about the cost of ambition for Black women. The narrative also explores misogyny, racism in publishing, and sexual harassment in workplace environments.
Addressing Timely Issues Through Historical Fiction
The book’s themes resonate powerfully in today’s social and political climate. “The rampant misogyny of that era felt important to explore now, particularly as women—especially Black women—are under attack,” Barnett stated. She wanted to examine how ambition operates when success isn’t encouraged.
The novel also explores how women find empowerment and voice despite challenging circumstances. These historical parallels offer relevant lessons for contemporary struggles. The story serves as both reflection and inspiration for current generations.
Empowering the Next Generation of Black Women
Barnett hopes younger readers will find Nikki Rose relatable and inspiring. “She makes mistakes that aren’t terminal,” the author emphasized. By the novel’s conclusion, the protagonist discovers empowerment through embracing her personal power.
“I hope readers feel inspired to go their own way and understand that mistakes can become insight,” Barnett shared. The character’s journey demonstrates that missteps don’t define one’s ultimate trajectory. Instead, they provide valuable lessons that fuel growth and success.
More Stories From This World Coming Soon
DuBois Barnett has signed a two-book deal with her publisher, though the second won’t be a direct sequel. Nevertheless, she has many more stories from this era waiting to be told. Her Instagram and Facebook series “Magazine Mondays” has generated significant fan engagement and excitement.
The Hulu adaptation opens doors for multiple seasons exploring these rich characters. “I look forward to the possibilities; the sky’s the limit,” Barnett concluded optimistically. Readers can purchase “If I Ruled the World” at online retailers and independent bookstores nationwide.