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.

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.

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

- Pretties is the second book in a series by Scott Westerfeld, following Uglies, and continues to explore themes of beauty, identity, and societal norms in a dystopian future.
- The book was first published in 2005 and contributed to the popularization of young adult dystopian fiction, which became a prominent genre in the early 2000s.
- Scott Westerfeld's inspiration for the Uglies series was driven by real-world issues regarding cosmetic surgery and societal pressures on physical appearances.

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

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

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

Scott Westerfeld

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Uglies

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Study Guide

Before You Read

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Before You Read Pretties | SuperSummary

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Overview

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Pretties Summary and Study Guide

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Part 1: “Sleeping Beauty”

Part 1, Chapters 1-5

Pretties Part 1, Chapters 1-5 Summary & Analysis

Part 1, Chapters 6-9

Pretties Part 1, Chapters 6-9 Summary & Analysis

Part 2: “The Cure”

Part 2, Chapters 10-14

Pretties Part 2, Chapters 10-14 Summary & Analysis

Part 2, Chapters 15-18

Pretties Part 2, Chapters 15-18 Summary & Analysis

Part 2, Chapters 19-22

Pretties Part 2, Chapters 19-22 Summary & Analysis

Part 3: “Outside”

Part 3, Chapters 23-29

Pretties Part 3, Chapters 23-29 Summary & Analysis

Part 3, Chapters 30-37

Pretties Part 3, Chapters 30-37 Summary & Analysis

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Character Analysis

Pretties Character Analysis

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Themes

Pretties Themes

Symbols & Motifs

Pretties Symbols & Motifs

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Important Quotes

Pretties Important Quotes

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Essay Topics

Pretties Essay Topics

Pretties

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Who Should Read Pretties?

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