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53 pages 1 hour read

Pretties

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2005

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Book Brief

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Scott Westerfeld

Pretties

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2005
Book Details
Pages

370

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Future Dystopia

Publication Year

2005

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

13-18 years

Lexile Level

860L

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Super Short Summary

Pretties by Scott Westerfeld follows Tally Youngblood navigating life in New Pretty Town after undergoing surgery to become a "pretty." Tally discovers that the surgery alters brain function to enforce compliance. Alongside Zane, Tally uncovers hidden truths, faces ethical dilemmas, and makes efforts to escape the city's control while striving to regain her true self amidst challenging circumstances.

Mysterious

Adventurous

Exciting

Fantastical

Contemplative

Reviews & Readership

4.2

270,680 ratings

65%

Loved it

26%

Mixed feelings

9%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Pretties by Scott Westerfeld is lauded for its gripping world-building and fast-paced narrative. Readers appreciate the deeper exploration of societal themes, although some find the protagonist's character development lacking. The novel's engagement and imaginative concepts outweigh occasional repetitive plot elements. Overall, it captivates young adult audiences with its dystopian allure.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Pretties?

Fans of dystopian fiction like Suzanne Collins' The Hunger Games or Lois Lowry's The Giver will relish Pretties by Scott Westerfeld. Ideal for readers aged 12 and up, it appeals to those captivated by futuristic societies, complex characters, and thrilling, fast-paced narratives exploring themes of conformity and rebellion.

4.2

270,680 ratings

65%

Loved it

26%

Mixed feelings

9%

Not a fan

Character List

Tally Youngblood

Tally is the protagonist whose journey involves grappling with the societal constraints of pretty life while striving for personal freedom and self-awareness.

Zane is Tally's partner who aids in her quest to liberate their group from societal control, characterized by his striking features and leadership among the Crims.

Shay is Tally's friend with distinct copper-colored eyes, whose relationships and choices become complicated by past betrayals and the desire for mental clarity.

Dr. Cable is a menacing figure with wolf-like features, representing authority and control, and presents a philosophical contrast to Tally's ideals.

Andrew is a young man from a reservation whose interactions with Tally challenge her perceptions and encourage her growth and empathy.

David is an external character whose past connection with Tally introduces internal conflict as she reconciles her feelings and involvement with the Smokies.

Book Details
Pages

370

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Future Dystopia

Publication Year

2005

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

13-18 years

Lexile Level

860L

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