‘Uglies’ Review: Beauty Is a Beast

The latest novel by Scott Westerfeld is a thrilling and thought-provoking exploration of beauty, conformity, and self-acceptance.

Set in a dystopian future where everyone is required to undergo cosmetic surgery at the age of 16 in order to become "pretty," ‘Uglies’ follows Tally Youngblood as she struggles to reconcile her desire to fit in with her growing sense of individuality.

Westerfeld's writing is sharp and witty, and he creates a vivid and believable world that is both familiar and strange. The characters are well-developed and relatable, and the story is full of twists and turns that will keep readers on the edge of their seats.

‘Uglies’ is a must-read for fans of dystopian fiction and anyone who has ever struggled with issues of self-acceptance. It is a powerful and thought-provoking novel that will stay with readers long after they finish reading it.

The Characters

Tally Youngblood is a complex and relatable protagonist. She is initially eager to undergo the surgery that will make her pretty, but she gradually comes to question the society that values beauty above all else.

Zane is a mysterious and enigmatic figure who helps Tally to see the world in a new way. He is a rebel who has rejected the norms of society and is willing to fight for what he believes in.

David is Tally's best friend. He is a kind and compassionate person who is always there for her. He is also the one who helps her to realize that there is more to life than just being pretty.

The Themes

Beauty is a central theme in ‘Uglies.’ Westerfeld explores the different ways that beauty is defined and valued in society. He argues that beauty is not something that is fixed and immutable, but rather something that is subjective and constantly changing.

Conformity is another important theme in the novel. Westerfeld shows how pressure to conform can lead people to give up their individuality and their own sense of self. He argues that it is important to be true to oneself, even if it means standing out from the crowd.

Self-acceptance is a third major theme in ‘Uglies.’ Westerfeld shows how difficult it can be to accept oneself in a society that values beauty above all else. He argues that self-acceptance is essential for happiness and well-being.

The Conclusion

‘Uglies’ is a powerful and thought-provoking novel that explores important themes of beauty, conformity, and self-acceptance. It is a must-read for fans of dystopian fiction and anyone who has ever struggled with issues of self-acceptance.