Such A Pretty Girl

Reader reviewed by Kaycee Joy

Meredith's father was given a 9 year sentence in prison, but only served 3. He's back and she wants him gone more than anything. Not only does her mother remain married to the monster, but she invites him back into the home. Despite the parole violations and the groping, Meredith knows it won't be enough to send him away long enough for her to turn eighteen. She must depend on neighbors and other victims of her fathers' to stay strong enough to deal with this unimaginable struggle.
Anyone who enjoys hearing a powerful but heartbreaking stuggle of abuse and recovery would enjoy Meredith's story. I enjoyed the book very much, it was also very easy and short read.

Reader reviewed by Lilibeth

What is it that makes this book unique? Seperate from others? Is it the MC's security, safety that she finds in numbers? Is it the MC's paralysis when it comes to the subject, the predator? Or was it just because she was assualted intimately, and mentally unprepared for the situation before her very eyes?
Or was it simply just that the MC was raped, at an age that she didn't even know what her parents do in the bedroom that makes so much noise.
Whatever it is, be it being in the beginning, middle, or end of the story--because that's what it is, a story--its definitely something that stands out from the rest.
Meredith was trudging along those three years of liberty. But even she admits to herself that they were the best years after what happened. Four being her safety number, eight being her double strength. If you don't understand the metaphor, just look down at your clenched fists, you'll get it. For me to just get through the words that the MC's mother exploits was just, so frustrasting, so infuriating, I'm surprised... First, that the book didn't burn into flames from the fire of my own rage. Second, at the fact that anybody in their right mind would say things like that.
Anyway, before I spoil to much... To say this story was informative is just ludicrous. To say this story was inspirational, perceptive, intuitive, still won't do it justice. I don't think any specific word really can, but that doesn't mean I'll stop looking for one.
Check this one girl's story out here, and for the life of me, read what it has to say and the author's answers in the back of the book. You will not regret it, I promise you that.

Reader reviewed by Jessica

After Meredith's father is released from prison after being arrested for abusing her and other boys and girls in her community, he is brought back to her house with the rule that he is not allowed to be left alone with her. Her mother turns a blind eye to Meredith and her anxiety because of her "love" towards Meredith's father. Blinded by this, she cannot see the stress and fear that Meredith carries now that her father is back home with them.

Through an intense novel of terrifying moments and shockingly open abuse, Laura Wiess tells the story of Meredith and offers an inside look into the life of an abused teen who no one seems to worry about. This is an amazing novel, written in passionate words and strong language which all should read.

Reader reviewed by Megannx3

Meredith is the main character in this book. The author takes you through Meredith's crazy life. I'm 15 and this is definitely age relatable. Meredith was sexually abused by her father. Her father also had his way with other kids. I enjoyed reading this book. Like most books. This book kept me turning the pages and i didn't find it too cliche' at all. I like the way the author used forshadowing as well. I also enjoyed reading about the odd relationship Meredith had with her "boyfriend" Andy. I suggest you to go out and buy this book PRONTO!

Reader reviewed by Writer's Block Reviews

When Meredith testified to have her dad sent to jail, he was supposed to serve 9 years. This meant Meredith had 9 years of safety and could move away when she turned 18. She never thought that her dad would get out in only 3 years for "good behavior". So Meredith is stuck at home with a mother that doesn't believe her and a father who is about to get out of prison. She has two friends in which she can confide; the wheelchair-ridden, Andy, who is her best friend and the guy she is in love with and there is also a retired cop in the same apartment complex, Nigel, who wants Meredith's dad put back in jail. Each friend is trying to help her in the only way that they know how. There is also her grandmother, Leah Louisa, who is the mayor and wants Meredith to live with her. But, if Meredith lives with her, will she be able to save others that is at her father's grasp?

This book is a gripping and powerful novel. All of the characters are so realistic that it is scary at times. There are also flashbacks in the book that are just as enthralling and telling of the story and how it got to where it is. Even though this book is honest, it's not too graphic. You understand why Meredith tries to run away. Then, when she comes back to help save others, you appreciate her. She's just a scared 15 year-old trying to take on more of the world than anyone should, much less someone her age. Laura is an amazing writer and is treading in water that is rarely touched. She did a wonderful job making you believe these characters. This is an earnest book that should be picked up!

Reader reviewed by paloma

If you want an easy simple read, Such a Pretty Girl is a good book for you. That is why I picked up this book but I have to say I was disappointed. This book is about Meredith, a fifteen year old girl whos father has just been let out of prison. Her father was a sex offender. She hates him very much and feels unsafe around him, especially because he was let out of prison early. With the help of her friends and grandmother, she tries to prove that her father is a real criminal, so that she can move away from him and her mother.

The plot of the book really excited me at first, but when I started reading it, I was disappointed with the slow-paced flow of it. I expected the book to be more exciting. I do not think the author did a very good job of building tension and anticipation, although I would credit the author on making the book very real and believable. You can also really feel the hate that Meredith has for her dad and the desperation she has to leave her parents. However, I do not believe that the slow actions in the book match the characters intense feelings.

This book has been described as one that you can finish in one sitting. I agree that it is an easy book to read, but I also think that it may become too boring at times to read all at once. Overall, if you are looking for a book to read with the topic of a girl and some sort of sex offender I think there are plenty of other more interesting books to read than this one.