The List, by Siobhan Vivian, follows the eight girls on the list, the four prettiest
and the four ugliest girls at Mount Washington High School. The list is posted
every year on the last Monday of September and although no one knows who makes
the list, its authenticity is certified by a stolen embossing stamp of Mount
Washington. The story follows all eight girls as they experience the
consequences of being on the list. The ugliest girls face humiliation, cruelty,
and pity but what the prettiest face is almost worse. This is because although
it’s horrible to be declared ugly, when you’re declared prettier than everyone
else, everyone else tends to become jealous and angry. All the girls experience
a rollercoaster ride after the list is posted and learn a lesson or two along
the way.
In my
opinion, this was a pretty good book. I enjoyed how it experimented with the
idea of being “pretty” and how society treats people based on appearance. I also
liked that the author showed the effects of the list from all eight sides. I
think it gave the story a much for interesting take because of all of the
conflicting opinions on the list and being “pretty”. However I did think that
the plot was a bit lacking because it took place over only one week, the book
could’ve been much better if the author expanded the plot more and made it a
little more complex and interesting. I think this book would be enjoyed by
anyone looking for a new, interesting take on society and how people are often
judged based on appearance.
Reviewed by Lucy H., Grade 9
Montrose Library
