Ocean of Tears

Iris Rainer Dart, author of “Beaches,” is hard at work on a sequel novel, and Disney has the movie option. Dart tells us her new book follows singer CC Brown--played by Bette Midler in the film--raising the child she inherited when her best friend died (Barbara Hershey, movie-wise). It’s due late next year from Little, Brown (Dart has split with Bantam Books).

“It’s about this outrageous character raising this essentially straight little girl and all the things that happen seeing those juxtaposed,” Dart said. Nina (Victoria in the movie) will probably age from 8 through her teens, Dart added.

As with the original “Beaches,” she’ll leave the screenwriting to others. “They did make lots of changes (in the film adaptation). (But) I’m delighted in the movie. They captured the essence of my book. I’ve seen it six times and every time I leave the theater, I’m sobbing. So there must be a connection to my material.”