So begins the much awaited finale to the Uglies trilogy. I had mixed feelings about beginning this book. To be honest, I was kinda let down by Pretties, the second book in the series. I approached Specials with a little bit of trepidation, but I figured that since I was already "committed" to the series I might as well finish it off. Pretties left me with a lot of unanswered questions: Will Zane and Tally be reunited? Will Tally step up and do the right thing? Tally becomes a Special?
The bad: Annoyed by Tally's flakiness in the first two installements of the trilogy? Hoping that she'll grow up and mature a bit? Well, don't hold your breath. Tally is back in all her flighty glory! Starting out in Uglies, I had a lot of respect for Tally. She was strong and determined. As the series went on, I found her becoming a little bit annoying. Throughout the series, you can see how she goes from being a free-thinker and possibly someone that could lead in a revolution against the "pretties" society, but as it progresses I feel like she lost some of her strength. I was especially disappointed when I picked up Specials in the bookstore and realized by reading the back that Tally ends up becoming a Special. I thought this was kinda strange... seeing as in the first two books she fears and despises Specials. When she finally joins their ranks, I find it unbelievable that she would switch her perspective that easily. See- that's why I think she's flighty.
The good: Everything gets tied up in a pretty little bow for you at the end of Specials. I can respect a book that gives you some semblance of closure. I also have a peeve for books that keep dragging on and on, all for the sake of pumping out another installment in a series. Three seems to max it out for me - after that point you're just trying to get some more book sales (ala Twilight) if you ask me. Westerfield has another book (Extras) that pertains to the world of the Uglies/Pretties, but it centers around a newly introduced character and has a different storyline. Another good thing: action, action, and more action. Westerfield's books rarely leaving you craving some action. They are descriptive, colorful, and would make for an exciting movie. I kept imagining what those hoverboard chases would look like on the big screen.
The verdict: You have to admit- the idea of stunningly gorgeous, fast-as-the-wind, super-humans is kinda fun. Westerfield's Uglies trilogy is definitely catchy and interesting. As far as YA literature goes, I'd recommend it. If you're looking for something with loads action and a little bit of suspense- you won't be disappointed.
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