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A review by simsbrarian
The Flawless Skin of Ugly People by Doug Crandell
2.0
2.5 stars.
*Spoilers*
I enjoyed reading about the rather deep and varied masks behind which people hide. To a point. However, the characters didn't actually resolve anything or grow any stronger/better throughout the book. Hobbie only ends up heading towards mending his broken past and move on with his life when he opts for new facial procedures for his acne; Kari (who we never actually really "see" in this book aside from the letters and memories shown to us by Hobbie) is ensconced in a weight-loss clinic and refusing all contact, only returning at the very VERY end. If she was Hobbie's Road-Trip-Quest-Goal, he definitely failed as he literally gave up on her and we only potentially see resolution because SHE finds them. But then the story ends. It was rather degrading over all because the message seemed to be that improvement is only possible if you lose weight, clear your skin, find a former love to take you back after you have a stroke...it was all more than a little over-worked and left me feeling as listless as the characters after reading it.
*Spoilers*
I enjoyed reading about the rather deep and varied masks behind which people hide. To a point. However, the characters didn't actually resolve anything or grow any stronger/better throughout the book. Hobbie only ends up heading towards mending his broken past and move on with his life when he opts for new facial procedures for his acne; Kari (who we never actually really "see" in this book aside from the letters and memories shown to us by Hobbie) is ensconced in a weight-loss clinic and refusing all contact, only returning at the very VERY end. If she was Hobbie's Road-Trip-Quest-Goal, he definitely failed as he literally gave up on her and we only potentially see resolution because SHE finds them. But then the story ends. It was rather degrading over all because the message seemed to be that improvement is only possible if you lose weight, clear your skin, find a former love to take you back after you have a stroke...it was all more than a little over-worked and left me feeling as listless as the characters after reading it.