Usually, American high schools are portrayed much differently in television shows and books compared to the average American teen experience. This book was told from the perspective of the eight girls on the list and the reader gets to see how each girl views her rank on the list as an ultimatum. The teenage years are hard for everyone and being on the list is a blessing and a curse for these girls. When picking up The List, by Siobhan Vivian, I hadn’t been expecting a very thoughtful read, but as I continued reading, I found it realistic and insightful.

• Synopsis:  It happens every year. A list is posted, and one girl from each grade is chosen as the prettiest, and another is chosen as the ugliest. Nobody knows who makes the list. It almost doesn’t matter. The damage is done the minute it goes up.
• Tone: The writing of this book was so honest. Since we are all in high school, I think many people can relate to the feelings of being compared to others, jealousy, and anxiety. It was hard to read at first since eight girls are hard to keep track of, but the author surprised me. After the first couple of chapters, I was able to keep track of who was who. I did have favorites among them, which character I actually wanted to read, but by the end, everyone’s story had a nice or at least satisfying ending.
• Final Thoughts: Girls want to be considered pretty. It is a vain aspect of self- esteem, but wanting to look a certain way is something anyone can attest to. The List offers a glimpse into how your appearance does not, however, change how you feel. Younger classmen would benefit from learning this moral.