Uglies by Scott Westerfeld is praised for its imaginative world-building and thought-provoking themes about beauty and societal control, captivating young adult readers. Critics appreciate the fast-paced plot and relatable protagonist. However, some note predictable twists and occasional uneven pacing. Overall, it’s a compelling dystopian novel with a strong message.

Fans of dystopian young adult fiction who enjoyed The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins or Divergent by Veronica Roth would relish Uglies by Scott Westerfeld. With its gripping narrative and exploration of societal norms and beauty standards, this novel appeals to readers aged 12 and up who enjoy thought-provoking and action-packed stories.

The young adult science fiction novel Uglies by Scott Westerfeld is set in a futuristic dystopian society where individuals undergo surgery at 16 to become "pretties." The story follows 15-year-old Tally Youngblood, who is divided between her desire to become pretty and her loyalty to her friend, Shay, who rebels against societal norms. Tally's journey leads her to the Smoke, an outsider community, where she discovers alarming secrets about the pretty surgery and ultimately confronts her beliefs and choices. The novel includes extensive discussions of issues related to physical appearance and body image.

Scott Westerfeld

Novel

Uglies

Fiction

Guide

Study Guide

Teaching Guide

Before You Read

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Before You Read Uglies | SuperSummary

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Overview

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Uglies Summary and Study Guide

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Part 1, Chapters 1-13

Uglies Part 1, Chapters 1-13 Summary & Analysis

Part 2: “The Smoke”

Part 1, Chapter 14-Part 2, Chapter 23

Uglies Part 1, Chapter 14-Part 2, Chapter 23 Summary & Analysis

Part 2, Chapters 24-32

Uglies Part 2, Chapters 24-32 Summary & Analysis

Part 3: “Into the Fire”

Part 3, Chapters 33-42

Uglies Part 3, Chapters 33-42 Summary & Analysis

Part 3, Chapters 43-50

Uglies Part 3, Chapters 43-50 Summary & Analysis

character

Character Analysis

Uglies Character Analysis

theme

Themes

Uglies Themes

Symbols & Motifs

Uglies Symbols & Motifs

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Important Quotes

Uglies Important Quotes

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Essay Topics

Uglies Essay Topics

Uglies Teaching Unit

Introduction

Uglies Teacher Introduction

Before Reading

Reading Context

Uglies Reading Context

During Reading

Reading Questions & Paired Texts

Uglies Reading Questions & Paired Texts

Answer Key

Uglies Reading Questions Answer Key

After Reading

Discussion/Analysis Prompt

Uglies Discussion/Analysis Prompt

Activities

Uglies Activities

Essay Questions

Uglies Essay Questions

Exam Questions

Uglies Cumulative Exam Questions

Exam Answer Key

Uglies Exam Answer Key

Uglies

Before You Read

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Who Should Read Uglies?

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