For the teen navigating complex feelings about societal beauty standards and the intense pressure to conform, this book explores self-acceptance and finding your own path.
A parent might reach for this book when they see their teen struggling with body image, social media pressure, and the intense desire to fit in. It powerfully tackles the modern pressures of beauty standards in a world where a cosmetic procedure called 'Pretty' is mandatory for girls at eighteen. The story follows two teens on opposite sides of the issue: one who embraces the system and one who fights it. This book is a fantastic conversation starter about feminism, conformity, self-acceptance, and critical thinking. For ages 13 and up, it provides a safe, engaging way to explore complex feelings about appearance and the courage it takes to define beauty for yourself.
Depictions of underage drinking at social parties.
Romantic ContentMild
A romantic subplot is present but is not the main focus of the story.
Sensitive Topics
The book directly confronts misogyny, eating disorders (referred to as being 'Beauty Sick'), body dysmorphia, and the intense psychological pressure of societal beauty standards. The approach is secular and firmly rooted in a feminist perspective. The resolution is hopeful, emphasizing the power of collective action and authentic selfhood, but it's also realistic, acknowledging that changing an entire system is a long and difficult fight.
Ideal Reader
A teen, 14 or older, who is actively questioning the world around them. They might be interested in social justice, frustrated by social media's impact, or feeling overwhelmed by the pressure to look a certain way. This is for the reader who enjoys sharp social commentary and strong, complicated female friendships.
Parent Prep
The book contains discussions of eating disorders, online harassment, and underage drinking at parties. Parents should be ready to have conversations about these topics. The UK setting includes some slang, but it is easily understood through context. It can be read cold, but the themes are rich for discussion. A parent hears their teen say, "I feel ugly," or notices they are becoming obsessed with their appearance, comparing themselves to influencers online, or expressing intense anxiety about fitting in with their peers.
Age Experience
A younger teen (13-14) will likely connect most with the friendship drama, the school setting, and the core dilemma of choosing to fit in or stand out. An older teen (15-18) will more deeply appreciate the sharp, satirical critique of consumerism, influencer culture, and patriarchal systems.
What Makes It Special
Unlike classic dystopian novels, this book's speculative element is just a slight exaggeration of our current reality, making it feel immediate and chillingly plausible. Its greatest strength is the dual-narrative structure, which gives equal weight to two opposing viewpoints, forcing the reader to grapple with the complexity of choice and conformity rather than being handed a simple answer.
Read plot summary
In a near-future society, all girls are expected to undergo the 'Pretty' treatment at eighteen, a cosmetic overhaul to achieve a uniform standard of beauty. The story is told from the dual perspectives of Belle, a popular influencer who can't wait for her treatment, and Joni, a cynical musician who is part of the resistance. When a reality show forces them to become friends to show that 'Pretties' and 'uglies' can get along, both girls begin to question their deepest beliefs about beauty, freedom, and power.
This overview was generated by AI based on the book's content and reviews, and may not capture every nuance.
Discussion Prompts
1
Joni believes being 'Pretty' is a form of oppression, while Belle sees it as an empowering choice. Who did you agree with more at the start of the book, and did your opinion change by the end?
2
The book uses the term 'Beauty Sick' to describe how the obsession with appearance harms girls. Can you think of examples of this in our own world or on social media?
3
Belle and Joni's friendship is complicated and forced at first. What do you think was the turning point that made their friendship feel real and genuine?
4
If the 'Pretty' treatment existed in our world today, do you think most people would choose to get it? Would you?
5
The government and media in the book play a large role in promoting the Pretty standard. How does this compare to how media and brands influence our ideas of beauty today?
