Hey, My fellow Book Worm and Book Lover! Guess what? I just read Pretties by Scott Westerfield, the second book in the Uglies series, and boy, oh boy, was it a wild ride! Tally, or should I say Talwy, is now a “pretty,” and let me tell you, she’s the epitome of a perfect influencer, but still, she’s unhappy. I mean, who wouldn’t be, right? Imagine losing all your memories and aspirations just to become “pretty”? Yikes! Anyway, she meets Zane, and things become interesting. Personally, I wasn’t a fan of Tally in the first book, but in Pretties, she transformed into a much better character. Along with the rebellious Shay and Tally’s former best friend Peris, Tally tries to reconnect with her past and rediscover her sense of individuality.
The world-building in this book is out of this world! I mean, it’s literally a dystopian society, but with mind-boggling technology and weird social norms. The descriptions of the Pretty world and its inhabitants are simply captivating. But it’s not all sunshine and rainbows. Tally’s encounter with another outside tribe is a narrative that pushes the boundaries of tolerance, equality, and discrimination. It’s interesting to see how Westerfeld uses the setting and the situations the characters find themselves in to explore society’s dark aspects.
There are a couple of flaws in the novel that I couldn’t ignore, though. The overuse of Pretty language by Tally and her friends was just too much. I mean, “bubbly,” “bogus,” and “pretty-making”? Come on! Also, Zane’s character development was unimpressive. He lacked David’s commanding personality, and it appeared as if Tally was the one protecting him. Seriously, dude, step up your game!
Overall, the characters in Pretties are more developed, and several impressed me, especially Peris and Shay, who undergo some significant character changes. The ending is a real tragedy, but it was predictable. I mean, it’s called Pretties, so what do you expect? Tally has undergone so many changes that it’s like a different character dies each time she transforms.
In conclusion, if you’re looking for a book that will make you laugh, cringe, and question your life choices, then Pretties is the book for you! With plot twists, heart-wrenching moments, and a pulse-pumping journey, you won’t be able to put this book down. Just be prepared for some Pretty language and a not-so-impressive love interest.
