Novel Review for Fantasy, Science Fiction and the Supernatural-Module 5

Novel Review for Fantasy, Science Fiction, and the Supernatural-The Uglies/ Module 5 Bibliographic Citation: Westerfield, S. (2005). The uglies. New York: Scholastic Inc. 425 pages. Summary: The Uglies is the first of a trilogy in which the reader is introduced to Tally, who is on the threshold of having her life change dramatically. At the age of sixteen, each individual in this futuristic society will undergo an operation that will alter his/her appearance, therefore that individual will always be pretty. As she prepares for her procedure, Tally learns the operation will change not only how she looks, but her thoughts, feelings and beliefs as well. Analysis: Each young person in today’s society strives to be considered beautiful, pretty or handsome by the world’s standards. However, these standards are constantly changing daily, or even by the hour. In Westerfield’s novel, we see that the powers in command decide what is considered pretty. This concept would be fascinating for adolescent readers, who may feel that this type of world would be inviting. They could see themselves in a world where once you were a “pretty”, life would have no problems, no sickness, and life is a constant party. However, is life worth giving up what makes you different from others in order to be beautiful. The promise seems fulfilling in theory, however is it worth sacrificing your individuality. As I read through this book, I found myself wishing that I could read the whole trilogy in one sitting. I had so many unanswered questions as the novel ended, and I feel that these will be covered in the second and third book of the trilogy.