Ever wonder what a perfect life might look like? Find out in Scott Westerfeld’s second novel in the Uglies series, Pretties. The story once again follows Tally Youngblood, a new addition to Pretty society. Tally, having forgotten everything that happened to her, only wants to fit in. With perfect looks, awesome parties, and great friends, she has anything and everything she could ever ask for. Everything is perfect until Tally’s ugly past catches up with her. She knows she must escape, but instead begins a series of events which will impact Tally and those around her.
Whether or not readers have already read the first book in the series, Pretties is an easy continuation of the plot. Reader who have chosen this novel as their first encounter with the Uglies series will find the storyline easy to jump into. There, however, might be some confusion over the “pretty-making” language of the story. Words like “bogus” or “bubbly” are often used; readers will be able to understand the meaning of the words but might be irritated by their constant use.
Pretties, and the rest of the Uglies series, is a great book for someone who wants to read an edgy science fiction story without the story being too mature or requiring a Young Adult permission slip. Some of the topics discussed in the book are serious, but relevant to teens like fitting in and peer pressure. For some readers, the inclusion of these topics will make for a more interesting read. However, like many other science fiction books, Pretties criticizes our society. If readers are looking for something exciting and new in the science fiction genre, they will instead find a familiar story with a few unique details.
Pretties may be like other stories within the science fiction genre, but what it lacks in newness it makes up for in relatability to teen readers. For this reason, teen readers will find this a great option if looking for a science fiction novel or series to jump into.
Whether or not readers have already read the first book in the series, Pretties is an easy continuation of the plot. Reader who have chosen this novel as their first encounter with the Uglies series will find the storyline easy to jump into. There, however, might be some confusion over the “pretty-making” language of the story. Words like “bogus” or “bubbly” are often used; readers will be able to understand the meaning of the words but might be irritated by their constant use.
Pretties, and the rest of the Uglies series, is a great book for someone who wants to read an edgy science fiction story without the story being too mature or requiring a Young Adult permission slip. Some of the topics discussed in the book are serious, but relevant to teens like fitting in and peer pressure. For some readers, the inclusion of these topics will make for a more interesting read. However, like many other science fiction books, Pretties criticizes our society. If readers are looking for something exciting and new in the science fiction genre, they will instead find a familiar story with a few unique details.
Pretties may be like other stories within the science fiction genre, but what it lacks in newness it makes up for in relatability to teen readers. For this reason, teen readers will find this a great option if looking for a science fiction novel or series to jump into.
Does it have a Young Adult label?: No
Recommended if you like stories with: Science fiction, romance, secrets, friendship, betrayal, revenge, futuristic machines, escape
Favorite Quote: “Everyone in the world was programmed by the place they were born, hemmed in by their beliefs, but you had to at least try to grow your own brain.”
Rating: