Miranda Levi

While nearing 20 years old, the Uglies series by Scott Westerfeld is a groundbreaking and thought-provoking journey through a dystopian world where beauty is everything and conformity is key. Each book in this series captivates with its intense plot, relatable characters, and deep social commentary. And the reread came just in time for the new show to drop on Netflix in September!

Uglies introduces us to a world where everyone undergoes an operation at sixteen to become stunningly beautiful and perfectly conformist. Tally Youngblood, our protagonist, can’t wait to turn sixteen and become a “Pretty.” However, when her friend Shay runs away to avoid the operation, Tally is thrust into a conflict that makes her question everything she knows. The world-building is exceptional, creating a vivid and chilling vision of the future. Tally’s journey from eager conformity to rebellion is gripping and thought-provoking, making this book a must-read.

In Pretties, Tally has undergone the transformation and is living the life she always dreamed of, but something is not quite right. The book delves deeper into the consequences of the operation, exploring themes of control, identity, and resistance. Tally’s struggle to hold onto her true self amid the superficiality and manipulation of her new life is compelling. Westerfeld’s exploration of the dark side of beauty and the quest for individuality is both engaging and profound.

Specials takes the series to a new level of intensity. Tally has now become a Special, an elite enforcer with enhanced abilities, tasked with maintaining order and suppressing rebellion. The transformation has made her more powerful but also more detached and ruthless. The book’s exploration of power, loyalty, and the cost of maintaining control is riveting. Tally’s internal conflict and her journey towards redemption are handled with finesse, making this installment an emotional rollercoaster.

Extras shifts the focus to a new protagonist, Aya Fuse, in a world where reputation is everything and everyone is vying for attention. This book offers a fresh perspective on the themes of fame, social media, and the desire to be seen. Aya’s quest to uncover a dangerous secret and the subsequent adventure is thrilling and relevant. The shift in perspective reinvigorates the series, providing new insights and expanding the world Westerfeld has created.

IThe Uglies series is a captivating blend of dystopian adventure, social critique, and character development. Scott Westerfeld has crafted a world that is both fantastical and eerily plausible, with characters that evolve in meaningful ways. Each book builds on the last, delivering a story that is both entertaining and thought-provoking. The series tackles important themes such as beauty, conformity, identity, and the power of rebellion, making it a timeless and impactful read. If you’re looking for a series that will challenge your perceptions and keep you hooked from start to finish, look no further. Five stars all the way!

Happy reading, and may your journey through Tally’s world be as eye-opening and exciting as hers!