Uglies by Scott Westerfeld follows the story of Tally Youngblood, a 15-year-old girl living in a futuristic society where everyone undergoes a surgery to become physically perfect on their 16th birthday. Here are some of the key characters in the book:
1. Tally Youngblood - The protagonist of the story, Tally is a rebellious teenager who is eager to turn sixteen in order to become "pretty" like her friends. However, her views on beauty and conformity are challenged throughout the course of the novel.
2. Shay - Tally's best friend, Shay is also waiting to undergo the surgery, but she begins to question the society's standards of beauty and conformity. Shay eventually runs away from the city to join a group of rebels known as the "Smokies."
3. David - A member of the Smokies, David becomes a love interest for Tally as she gets to know him outside of the city's influence. David helps Tally see the flaws in their society and challenges her to think for herself.
4. Dr. Cable - The head of the Special Circumstances department, Dr. Cable is a manipulative and powerful figure within the society. She plays a pivotal role in manipulating Tally and the other characters to serve her own agenda.
5. Peris - Tally's childhood friend and former neighbor, Peris undergoes the surgery and becomes "pretty" before Tally. Their friendship is strained as Tally questions the society's standards and seeks out her own path.
6. Zane - Another member of the Smokies, Zane becomes romantically involved with Tally as she navigates her feelings for David. Zane's character adds complexity to Tally's romantic relationships and personal growth.
Overall, the characters in Uglies each play a unique role in challenging societal norms and exploring themes of identity, beauty, and conformity in a dystopian world.