You Could Be So Pretty by Holly Bourne: A Striking Reflection on Feminism and Choice
From the moment I laid eyes on the two-toned cover of You Could Be So Pretty, I knew I was in for something special. Its vivid pink and red palette caught my eye, but it was the bold playfulness of the title—superimposed over a provocative pair of lips—that truly piqued my curiosity. And once I opened the cover to reveal the shocking blue page declaring, “You should be so angry,” it was impossible to resist diving headfirst into Holly Bourne’s latest exploration of modern feminism.
Bourne introduces us to Belle and Joni—two young women vying for a prestigious scholarship but leading vastly different lives. Belle epitomizes the “Pretty” ideal, following the tenets of the Doctrine with a dedicated application of her Mask, while Joni embraces the label of “Objectionable,” reveling in her unapologetic individuality. Through these contrasting characters, Bourne navigates the often murky waters of the beauty-industrial complex, laying bare the societal pressures that shape—or warp—our identities as women.
The tension between these two girls is palpable and beautifully rendered. I found myself rooting for both of them, caught in a whirlwind of emotions that shifted from admiration to frustration. As Belle’s seemingly perfect life begins to unravel, her interactions with Joni encourage her to question the Doctrine she has adhered to so fervently. The real power of this narrative lies in its exploration of choice—not merely as individual empowerment but as a reflection of deeper societal constructs. For a moment, I wanted to throw the book across the room, overwhelmed by Bourne’s raw critique of what “choice” often masks.
Bourne’s writing is sharp and engaging, effortlessly weaving intricate themes into a compelling storyline. Her use of dystopian elements creates a canvas that, while it may come off as overly simplified to some readers, serves a powerful purpose. For those of us who have navigated the complexities of the feminist movement, this might feel like a primer. However, for younger readers, You Could Be So Pretty holds the potential for awakening a fiery awareness—shining a light on the subtle ways patriarchy infiltrates our lives.
The moments that resonated most with me came from Joni’s character grappling with her mother’s duality in understanding femininity. In a particularly poignant scene, her naïve confusion about her mother’s choice to distribute beauty products at a feminist shelter speaks volumes. The generational conversation about feminism and the nuances of choice is layered and fraught, yet beautifully depicted here, reminding us that revolution is rarely straightforward.
Of course, the book is not without its limitations. As a trans woman, I found myself longing for more representation within its pages. While Bourne does make attempts to address intersectionality, the narrative largely centers on the experiences of white, cisgender women, leaving broader facets of feminism unexplored. This is undeniably a missed opportunity, especially in our current climate where inclusivity is essential.
Despite these critiques, I wholeheartedly believe that You Could Be So Pretty serves as a vital tool for discussion, particularly among younger audiences. It’s relatable, accessible, and most importantly, it’s a call to action. Bourne’s work continues to evolve, and this novel stands as a vibrant testament to her ability to ignite conversations around difficult topics.
If you’re a fan of feminist literature or simply seeking a thought-provoking read, I can’t recommend this book enough. It may not answer every question, but it dares to ask the ones that matter. Ultimately, You Could Be So Pretty challenges readers to reconsider their understanding of beauty standards, autonomy, and anger—and that, in itself, is a journey worth taking.
So grab a copy, gather your thoughts, and prepare to engage in a conversation that’s both essential and uncomfortable. After all, well-behaved women rarely make history.
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