Pretty Amy by Lisa Burstein

GoodReads

324 pages, YA Contemporary

Synopsis

Amy is fine living in the shadows of beautiful Lila and uber-cool Cassie, because at least she’s somewhat beautiful and uber-cool by association. But when the girls get stood up for prom and take matters into their own hands—earning them a night in jail outfitted in satin, stilettos, and Spanx — Amy discovers even a prom spent in handcuffs might be better than the humiliating “rehabilitation techniques” now filling up her summer. Even worse, with Lila and Cassie parentally banned, Amy feels like she has nothing — like she is nothing.

Navigating unlikely alliances with her new coworker, two very different boys, and possibly even her parents, Amy struggles to decide if it’s worth being a best friend when it makes you a public enemy. Bringing readers along on an often hilarious and heartwarming journey, Amy finds that maybe getting a life only happens once you think your life is over.

My 2 cents

Overall I thought this was a good read.  The title Pretty Amy comes from Amy's bird, A.J., whom she loves more than anything.  When she was a freshmen and feeling lost and ignored, she taught the bird to say things that would make her feel better.  "Pretty Amy" is one of those phrases.  

I myself was really able to relate to Amy, as far as how she felt in the beginning of high school.  I think most of us felt that way, like we had to pretend to belong where the student body had decided to stick us.  Most of this book I felt really bad for her, especially with her crazy mom!  I had a similar experience with mine--anytime I would even be considered remotely cool, she would ruin it!  But I wasn't as stupid as Amy was, getting in trouble just so she could look like a "bad girl", therefore keeping a rep intact.  I had a lot of trouble relating to her in some of those situations.  

The thing that was sooo frustrating was how she never ever stuck up for herself.  Everyone (and I do mean EVERYONE) in her life is always assuming the worst of her, when it usually a misunderstanding.  Amy doesn't have enough self esteem to even try to defend herself.  That was the biggest lesson of the story.  I think every parent who has a troubled teen girl might learn something from reading this book!  

My favorite parts of the story were when she and her dad spent time together, which wasn't often enough, but he made me think of my dad and how he tried to relate to me.  Dads are usually clueless with teen girls this age, but at least you can tell they are trying!

The ending I though was good.  Not too much of a happy ever after, but enough to have a little feel good warmth!  I give this book 4 stars!