Smile and Look Pretty by Amanda Pellegrino
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC of Smile and Look Pretty in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
The Gist
Smile and Look Pretty by Amanda Pellegrino is a contemporary fiction novel that follows the lives of four young women—Cate, Lauren, Max, and Olivia—who work as assistants in the cutthroat world of media and entertainment. Frustrated by the demeaning treatment and lack of recognition, they create an anonymous blog, “The Assistants,” to voice their grievances and expose the harsh realities of their work environments. As the blog gains popularity and their stories resonate with a wider audience, the women must navigate the consequences of their newfound empowerment and the risks that come with speaking out.
The Details
Pellegrino offers sharp observations about the challenges faced by women in male-dominated industries. The anonymous blog serves as a powerful platform for discussing important issues and sparking change.
While the main characters are likable, they sometimes lack depth and complexity. Their individual arcs could benefit from more development and nuance, making them feel more three-dimensional.
Also, certain plot developments and resolutions are foreseeable, which can lessen the overall impact of the story. Experienced readers of contemporary fiction might anticipate key events and twists.
The Details
Overall, Smile and Look Pretty by Amanda Pellegrino is a timely and relevant novel that explores the struggles of young women in the workplace. The themes of workplace inequality and the strength of female friendships are well-handled and resonate strongly. However, the novel falls short in terms of character depth and plot predictability. Despite these shortcomings, it remains an engaging read with insightful social commentary. Fans of contemporary fiction and readers interested in stories of empowerment and solidarity will find value in Pellegrino’s portrayal of the challenges and triumphs of modern working women.
