Book Review: The List by Siobhan Vivian
When I first stumbled upon The List by Siobhan Vivian, the title intrigued me instantly. High school is a jungle of social hierarchies, and the idea of an annual list designating the prettiest and ugliest girls sent a wave of nostalgia—and trepidation—through me. I mean, who would want to relive those emotional rollercoasters? But that’s precisely why I couldn’t resist picking it up; I wanted to see how these familiar dynamics would unfold through the eyes of eight distinctly different girls.
The List dives deep into the lives of the girls chosen each year at Mount Washington High. Two for each grade—one deemed “prettiest” and the other “ugliest”—each girl reacts to her new label in a way that reflects her personality, insecurities, and social standing. What struck me the most was how consistently relevant these experiences are, even beyond the high school setting. The story gives voice to the raw emotions of self-worth, identity, and the often-unforgiving judgments cast by peers. I felt invested in every girl’s journey, from Sarah, who tries to maintain a tough facade, to Bridget, who becomes increasingly entangled in her quest for perfection.
Vivian’s writing style is both accessible and poignant. She weaves the perspectives of all eight characters seamlessly, giving each girl a genuine voice. The pacing flows effortlessly, dragging you along with the emotional tides of adolescence—one moment, you’re concerned about popularity, and the next, you’re questioning deeper societal cues about beauty and worth. I absolutely adored how what began as a predictable exploration of teenage cliches morphed into a nuanced reflection on self-acceptance.
One of the standout moments for me was when one character unapologetically writes “UGLY” across her forehead—a powerful statement that encapsulates defiance, vulnerability, and profound self-awareness. That instance encapsulates the heart of The List: it’s not about what others label you, but how you choose to respond to that label and whether you let it define you.
The reviews from others resonate with my thoughts as well; one reader found that the book surprisingly subverted expectations. It shines a light on the dark corners of adolescence, laying bare how our interactions and labels shape our lives. Yet it ultimately delivers a message of empowerment—every character’s struggles lead to some form of self-discovery, offering a sense of hope amid the chaos.
I wholeheartedly recommend The List to anyone who’s ever felt the weight of societal expectations—whether you’re currently navigating high school or reflecting on those times from afar. It’s an important read for young adults and a poignant reminder for those of us beyond those years to be more empathetic and aware of the feelings that teenagers experience daily. This beautifully crafted narrative left me with an echo of introspection long after I turned the last page.
In a world where external validation often overshadows inner worth, The List serves as a rallying cry for self-acceptance and authenticity. Grab a copy, and you might just find a little piece of yourself nestled within these pages.