The Pretty Committee Strikes Back : Book Review

"The Pretty Committee Strikes Back" by Lisi Harrison is the second book in "The Clique" series, which is a beloved series for young adults. The story revolves around a group of seventh-grade girls known as the "Pretty Committee" who attend an exclusive private school in Westchester, New York.

In this installment, the girls are still dealing with the aftermath of their glamorous Halloween party. The leader of the Pretty Committee, Massie Block, is determined to maintain her position as the alpha of the school. However, things take a turn when a new girl named Claire Lyons poses a threat to her status. Massie must find a way to assert her dominance and maintain her popularity. Throughout the book, readers are taken on a journey through the challenges and triumphs of these middle school girls.

Lisi Harrison does a fantastic job of capturing the authentic voice and concerns of seventh-grade girls, making the book relatable to its target audience. Each character is well-developed and has their own unique personality traits, making them interesting and memorable. The interactions between the girls are filled with drama and gossip, adding an enjoyable layer to the story.

Beyond the entertaining aspects, Harrison also explores deeper themes such as bullying and self-esteem, adding depth to the narrative. The writing style is fast-paced and engaging, making it a quick and enjoyable read. The plot is filled with unexpected twists and turns that keep readers guessing and invested in the story from beginning to end.

Overall, "The Pretty Committee Strikes Back" is a captivating and entertaining read for young adult readers. It immerses readers in the world of the Pretty Committee, with its dynamic characters and relatable themes. Lisi Harrison has crafted a compelling story that will leave readers eager to continue reading the rest of the series.

What are readers saying?

Lisi Harrison's novel "The Pretty Committee Strikes Back" has elicited a range of responses from readers. Overall, the book's continuation of the popular "Clique" series was appreciated by most, as it effectively portrayed the dramatic world of middle school. Many reviewers commended the author for her skill in capturing the intricacies of friendship and the pressures faced by young girls. The characters were widely praised for their believability and development.

However, some readers felt that the story followed a predictable and formulaic pattern, lacking originality compared to previous books in the series. There were concerns over a lack of character growth and the too-easy resolution of conflicts within the plot. Additionally, a number of reviewers expressed disappointment with the writing style of "The Pretty Committee Strikes Back." They found the dialogue unrealistic and overly formal for middle schoolers. The excessive use of brand names and references was also criticized for detracting from the authenticity of the story.

Despite these criticisms, many readers thoroughly enjoyed the book for its entertainment value and lightheartedness. The humor present throughout the narrative made it a fun and easy read for them. For existing fans of the series, "The Pretty Committee Strikes Back" offered a satisfying continuation of the characters' ongoing adventures.

In conclusion, the reception of Lisi Harrison's "The Pretty Committee Strikes Back" has been mixed among readers. While the relatable characters and themes of friendship were appreciated, some found the plot predictable and the writing style lacking. Although it may not fully appeal to new readers, the book appears to have pleased fans looking for an enjoyable continuation of the series.