Pretties

Reach for this book when your teenager is struggling with the intense pressure to conform to social media beauty standards or feels like they have to act 'shallow' to fit in with their peers. In this sequel to Uglies, Tally has finally received the operation to become a Pretty, but she soon discovers that her new life of parties and perfection comes at the cost of her critical thinking and true personality. It is a powerful exploration of how societal expectations can 'brainwash' young people into losing their sense of self. While it features dystopian action, its heart lies in the struggle for mental autonomy and the courage to stay true to one's values even when it is socially difficult. It is ideal for middle and high schoolers navigating the transition into older adolescence where the desire for popularity often clashes with personal integrity.