Returning to a childhood favorite, I recently revisited a novel I adored in grades 6/7. After discovering it at a sale, I was thrilled to find multiple copies at my school, paving the way for a reading group!
The story unravels around Tally, a 15-year-old living in a futuristic, post-apocalyptic setting. Here, a milestone awaits everyone at 16 – undergoing “The Surgery” to become “pretty”. This transformative procedure standardizes appearances, erasing individuality to foster harmony and quell the discord that “rusties” (our current societal counterparts) experienced over differences in looks, behaviors, and beliefs.
Yet, as Tally’s pivotal birthday approaches, an unexpected friendship unravels the hidden perils of this seemingly utopian norm.
This book resonated wonderfully with my 7th graders! Apt for a G7 reading level, it requires a nudge to persevere through its slightly unhurried start. Yet, by mid-point, my challenge shifted from ensuring they met reading goals to preventing them from racing ahead. Although its romantic subplot wasn’t everyone’s cup of tea, its intriguing premise kept them engaged.
Final Verdict: A strong 4/5.
A must-read for middle schoolers, it sparks critical dialogues about dystopia, societal beauty standards, and introspective views on our world.