They’re encouraged to call each other ugly until then, using nicknames like “Fat nose” and “Squinty.” After the pretty-making surge (à la Uglies slang), the newly transformed pretties pack up to live in Prettyland, where everyone lives a luxurious life that consists of feasting, drinking, and playing, separated from the uglies. Uglies live in dorms, impatiently waiting for their sixteenth birthday, exploring and doing daring tricks to pass the time. Pre-surgery children are called uglies, and post-surgery, they’re called pretties. Scott Westerfeld introduces us to a strangely seductive dystopia: Everyone in this world is subject to a complete and utter cosmetic surgery makeover when they turn sixteen. Uglies is actually the first of a series, which includes Uglies, Pretties, Specials, and Extras.

(And I was thrilled to work on a reprint for it this past year!) This novel was among a string of dystopian novels I read in middle school, but it was so unique and memorable for its flawed heroine, hip slang, and premise. I wanted to be a part of that world-a world where words are that strong. Uglies challenged my views and supported me through my insecurities, and it was amazing to me that a book was able to do that. After reading it almost ten years ago, I realized that you could find a friend in books. It was the first book that I felt personally connected to. Uglies by Scott Westerfeld is the book that ignited my desire to work in the publishing industry. It’s a bit embarrassing for me to declare my love for a YA novel, but I am utterly proud of loving this book.

Pretties uglies and specials