YA Sci-Fi • Dystopian • Adventure
Summary
Pretties is the second installment in Scott Westerfeld’s Uglies series, and it builds beautifully on the foundation laid in the first book. The story continues with Tally Youngblood, who has now undergone the mandatory cosmetic surgery that transforms her into a “Pretty.” At sixteen, she is polished, symmetrical, and flawless, but her transformation goes far beyond her appearance.
The procedure has altered her mind, leaving her in a constant cognitive fog and stripping away the memories of her time in The Smoke, the rebel settlement where she first began to question the system. Her friendships, her loyalties, and even her sense of self have been blurred. Yet, despite the haze, fragments of her past resurface, pulling her toward the truth she once uncovered.
Tally finds herself drawn to Zane, a fellow Pretty whose charm and determination spark something deeper within her. Together, they begin to question the world they inhabit, pushing against the restrictions imposed on them. With Shay and others from The Smoke working to break her free, Tally becomes determined to find The New Smoke, a place where freedom and individuality may still prevail.
Final Thoughts
Tally’s struggle is physical and psychological, and her relationship with Zane adds a new layer of complexity. Their bond is a tender glimmer of sunshine amidst a dangerous and conforming world. In rebellion and for the sake of survival, they band together with their friends to break free of their governed restrictions.
This book expands further on social commentary, including themes on beauty, conformity, hierarchy, and control. It’s fast-paced and suspenseful, introspective, and emotional.
I loved this continuation of the series even more than Uglies, if that’s possible. Pretties is thrilling, thought-provoking, and emotionally charged, offering a perfect blend of adventure and reflection. Tally’s journey is one of resilience and rediscovery, and it left me eager to dive straight into Specials, the third book in the saga.
If you’re looking for a dystopian series that challenges societal norms while delivering romance, danger, and unforgettable characters, Pretties is a must-read.
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