The Best UGLIES Books

Scott Westerfeld’s Uglies series captivates readers with a dystopian society obsessed with physical beauty, blending action, adventure, and thought-provoking commentary on societal norms.

If you’re new to the series or a fan looking to revisit, we break down the best books in the Uglies series that should not be missed.

What Is the Uglies Series?

The Uglies series by Scott Westerfeld is set in a futuristic world where every person undergoes surgery at age 16 to become a “Pretty”—physically flawless and perfectly uniform.

The story follows Tally Youngblood, who rebels against the system and unravels dark secrets about this supposedly perfect society.

The series is made up of four main books and two spin-offs, each delving deeper into the moral, ethical, and emotional dilemmas of living in a world obsessed with perfection.

Core Uglies Books

Let’s start with the core of the series—the original four books that introduced us to Tally’s world:

1. Uglies: Where It All Begins

The first book, Uglies, sets the stage for Westerfeld’s thrilling dystopia. The story kicks off with Tally Youngblood eagerly awaiting her 16th birthday, excited for the surgery that will transform her from an “Ugly” into a “Pretty.”

However, when Tally’s friend, Shay, runs away to avoid the operation, Tally is thrown into a conflict that questions everything she thought she knew.

• Why it’s great: The themes of self-identity, peer pressure, and conformity resonate with many readers, young and old. Tally’s journey from blind follower to critical thinker is gripping.
• Most memorable part: Tally’s encounter with the Smoke, a hidden community of rebels who reject the surgery.

2. Pretties: When Beauty Comes at a Cost

In Pretties, Tally has undergone the surgery and is now part of the “Pretty” elite. However, the transformation isn’t just skin-deep.

With her mind altered to suppress rebellious thoughts, Tally finds herself struggling to remember her past and reconnect with her true self.

• Why it’s great: Pretties explores the darker side of beauty and mind control, showing how deeply appearance-based societies can manipulate individuals.
• Most memorable part: Tally’s internal battle as she fights against her own artificially induced complacency, while facing romantic dilemmas and risking everything for freedom.

3. Specials: The Elite Enforcers

In Specials, Tally is part of the Specials, an elite group tasked with maintaining order and suppressing rebellion.

The Specials are fast, strong, and ruthlessly efficient—but they are also heavily controlled by the system.

As Tally rises in the ranks, she questions her role in the larger picture.

• Why it’s great: This book takes a deeper dive into the structures of power and control, making readers think about authoritarian regimes and the lengths people go to maintain power.
• Most memorable part: The transformation of Tally from a reluctant rebel into a hardened enforcer, and her ultimate decision about whether to destroy the system or maintain it.

4. Extras: A New Perspective

The final core book in the series, Extras, shifts away from Tally as the main protagonist and introduces a new character, Aya Fuse.

This book focuses on a society where popularity and influence, measured through social ranking, have replaced physical beauty as the ultimate currency.

• Why it’s great: It’s a fresh take on the Uglies universe, highlighting the dangers of social media and fame obsession—a timely topic for today’s world.
• Most memorable part: Aya’s journey to uncover a massive conspiracy in her society, reminding readers that even in new systems, there will always be those who exploit power.

Spin-offs and Companion Books

Scott Westerfeld didn’t stop with just the core series. Fans of the Uglies world will enjoy these spin-offs that expand the story.

1. Impostors: Return to the Uglies World

The Impostors series, set years after the events of the original books, follows Frey, who lives in the shadow of her twin sister, Rafi.

The world has changed, but the same themes of power, beauty, and identity remain central.

• Why it’s great: Frey’s struggle for her own identity in a world that values her sister more resonates deeply with readers.
• Most memorable part: Frey’s dangerous mission to infiltrate hostile territories and prove herself as more than just a shadow.

2. Shatter City: Frey’s Next Chapter

In Shatter City, the stakes rise as Frey’s story continues, pulling readers further into a world of political intrigue and rebellion.

• Why it’s great: It maintains the fast-paced action that fans of the original series love, while introducing new layers of political manipulation.
• Most memorable part: Frey’s continued battle to distinguish herself from her sister and take control of her destiny.

Why These Books Stand Out

Timeless Themes

The Uglies series tackles issues that are more relevant today than ever—society’s obsession with beauty, the dangers of social media, and the cost of conformity.

These books encourage readers to think critically about the pressures placed on individuals, especially teenagers, to fit in with societal standards.

Compelling Characters

Tally Youngblood’s evolution is one of the most compelling arcs in YA literature.

She starts as a passive participant in her world but grows into a fierce fighter for truth and individuality.

Frey’s journey in the spin-off series similarly explores the complexities of identity and self-worth.

Action-Packed Storytelling

Westerfeld knows how to keep readers on the edge of their seats.

Whether it’s a daring escape from an authoritarian regime or a high-stakes conspiracy, these books are packed with tension and excitement.

A Must-Read for Dystopian Fans

The Uglies series remains one of the best dystopian book collections out there, with strong characters, a thought-provoking narrative, and themes that resonate with modern readers. Whether you’re new to the series or revisiting it, these books have something timeless to offer.