The first book in Scott Westerfeld's international bestselling Uglies series - over six million copies of the series have been sold worldwide!

In Tally Youngblood's world, looks matter. At sixteen everyone undergoes a transformation from "Ugly" to "Pretty" and is catapulted into a high-tech paradise where the only thing that matters is having a great time and you never have to worry or think for yourself. Tally can't wait.

But then, with just weeks to go to Tally's birthday, her friend Shay runs away and the ugly truth about the world of the Pretties starts to reveal itself. What if the beauty of the Pretties utopia really is just skin deep?

'Fast paced, exciting and thought-provoking.' The Bookseller's Choice 'Superb sci-fi.' Amanda Craig, The Times Supplement 'Westerfeld introduces thought-provoking issues' Publishers Weekly 'The longing for fairy-tale beauty has never looked so sinister' Amanda Craig, The Times 'With a beginning and ending that pack hefty punches, this introduction to a dystopic future promises an exciting series.' Kirkus starred review 'Naughty children, from Max in Maurice Sendak's Where the Wild Things Are, to Tally in Scott Westerfeld's Uglies trilogy, have the imagination and energy to go beyond convention.' The Times 'This exciting story makes you realise how important it is not to judge people by appearances.' Newcastle Upon Tyne Journal 'This book is a real thrill-ride and the world utterly convincing.' Trashionista.com 'Fun, and the many by-the-skin-of-your-teeth escapes and hoverboard chases, plus the non-stop action plotting were enough to catch my attention and have me eagerly wanting more.' The Book Smugglers

Also by Scott Westerfeld: Pretties Specials Extras