Ugly : Book Review

"Ugly" by Donna Jo Napoli is a captivating and thought-provoking retelling of the classic fairy tale "The Ugly Duckling." It tells the story of Eglantine, a young girl with a disfigurement that causes others to perceive her as ugly. Napoli beautifully portrays Eglantine's journey of self-discovery and acceptance in a world filled with judgment and cruelty.

Napoli's writing shines throughout the novel, skillfully capturing the complex emotions and struggles that Eglantine experiences. The author delves deep into the psychological impact of feeling different and explores themes such as beauty, self-worth, and resilience. Eglantine's character is intricately developed, allowing readers to connect with her and empathize with the challenges she faces.

One of the strengths of Napoli's storytelling is her ability to evoke a wide range of emotions in readers. From the heart-wrenching sense of rejection and isolation Eglantine endures to her eventual transformation into a confident young woman, the story elicits both tears and smiles. Napoli's use of vivid imagery and descriptive language brings Eglantine's world to life, immersing readers in her experiences.

Additionally, Napoli skillfully incorporates elements of the original fairy tale while adding her own unique twist. The parallels between Eglantine's story and "The Ugly Duckling" are cleverly interwoven, offering a fresh and compelling take on a familiar tale. The novel also conveys subtle messages about the importance of inner beauty and the destructive nature of prejudice, leaving a powerful impact on readers.

Overall, "Ugly" is a beautifully written and poignant novel that explores themes of identity and societal expectations. It serves as a reminder that true beauty comes from within and that everyone deserves love and acceptance. Napoli's expert storytelling and compelling characters make this book a must-read for fans of fairy tale retellings and those seeking a powerful exploration of self-acceptance.

What are readers saying?

Donna Jo Napoli's novel, "Ugly," has garnered mixed reviews from readers. The story revolves around Zeigana, a young woman born with a facial deformity who faces discrimination from society. Some readers praised Napoli's skill in tackling sensitive topics and creating empathetic characters. However, others found the plot lacking and the pacing slow.

Many reviewers appreciated the author's exploration of beauty standards and its impact on individuals with physical differences. Napoli's portrayal of Zeigana's struggles with self-acceptance and societal pressures was thought-provoking and heartfelt. Readers felt a strong emotional connection to the protagonist and were moved by her journey towards self-love and empowerment.

On the other hand, some readers felt that the book did not meet their expectations. They found the pacing too slow, lacking enough exciting moments to sustain their interest. Several reviewers also mentioned that the descriptive writing style slowed down the narrative even further. These criticisms led to a disconnection with the story and a lack of engagement.

While many reviewers appreciated Napoli's exploration of important themes, some felt that the execution fell short. They found the plot predictable and desired more complexity and depth. Some readers also mentioned that certain plot points were conveniently resolved, diminishing the impact of the protagonist's struggles.

Despite the mixed feedback, "Ugly" had its strengths, particularly in its portrayal of characters. Several reviewers praised Napoli's ability to create fully realized and authentic individuals, showcasing their vulnerabilities, strengths, and growth throughout the narrative. The relationships and interactions between characters were also highlighted as powerful and realistic.

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