Who Are The Main Characters In The Prettiest?

Man, 'The Prettiest' hit me hard because it’s so real. Eve’s the heart of the story—this girl who’s smart and kind but constantly feels invisible because she doesn’t fit the narrow beauty standards. Nessa’s my favorite, though; she’s got this fiery energy and doesn’t take crap from anyone, but even she has moments of doubt. Sophie’s the one who surprised me—she’s not just the 'pretty girl' trope; her chapters show how suffocating it is to be put on a pedestal. The way their stories collide makes you think about how messed up it is to reduce people to rankings.

The Prettiest' is a novel by Brigit Young, and it revolves around three middle school girls whose lives intertwine after a controversial list ranking the 'prettiest' girls in their grade goes viral. eve Hoffman is the protagonist—a thoughtful, plus-sized girl who's grappling with self-image and societal expectations. Her best friend, Nessa Flores-Brady, is fierce, confident, and unapologetically herself, though she struggles with her own insecurities. Then there's Sophie Kane, the girl who tops the list—outwardly perfect but dealing with immense pressure to maintain that image. Their dynamic shifts as they confront the toxic culture of ranking and judgment.

The story digs into how each girl navigates the fallout of the list. Eve’s journey is especially poignant as she learns to reclaim her self-worth beyond appearances. Nessa’s sharp wit and loyalty make her a standout, while Sophie’s arc reveals the loneliness behind being labeled 'the prettiest.' The book’s strength lies in how it humanizes these characters, showing their flaws and growth. It’s a relatable exploration of adolescence, friendship, and the damaging effects of superficial judgments.

Eve, Nessa, and Sophie—three girls stuck in a mess because of some stupid list. Eve’s the underdog you root for, Nessa’s the friend everyone wishes they had, and Sophie’s more than her looks. The book’s strength is how it lets each girl tell her side, showing how labels hurt everyone. It’s a solid read for anyone who’s ever felt judged.

I’ve talked about this book with my younger cousin, and we both loved how layered the characters are. Eve isn’t just the 'unconfident fat girl'—she’s funny, creative, and learns to stand up for herself. Nessa’s biracial identity is handled with nuance, and her struggles with feeling 'not enough' of either race resonated deeply. Sophie’s storyline is a gut punch; her mom’s obsession with her looks adds this heartbreaking layer. The book doesn’t villainize any of them, which is rare for stories about bullying or popularity. It’s messy, honest, and so needed.