Beastly Review

“My dad’s a network news guy. He says people shouldn’t have to look at ugly people.”

I have to confess that Beauty and the Beast is my favourite Disney animation and one that I sheepishly know all the words to. I’ve even seen the stage show on Broadway and so when I found out about Beastly by Alex Flinn, I knew I had to read it. You see, Beastly is a YA version of the classic story Beauty and the Beast.

In Beastly, the main protagonist is Kyle Kingston, a teenager who leads a privileged life in the heart of New York City. He just about has it all – good looks, popularity and a rich father. I say “just about” because he is sadly lacking in the winning personality stakes. Together with his shallow girlfriend Sloane, they rule the school and treat anyone who isn’t beautiful like persona non grata. When a cruel prank backfires, Kyle gets a taste of his own medicine.

Beastly was a fun, quick read that I read in one sitting. I enjoyed the interesting take on the Beauty and the Beast story and I love how Kyle grows and develops throughout the book. In the beginning, he is not a likeable character but he definitely grows on you as the story unfolds. I think because the main protagonist was male, I initially thought that the author was a man until I finished reading and turned to the back of the book and saw the author photo. I realise this was a bit silly of me now but it was a subconscious thought and not one that I had any control over. Sorry Alex!

I really liked the supporting characters and I would have liked to have seen more from Lindy. This could only have been achieved however, by reading from her point of view.

I’m REALLY looking forward to the movie but I can already see why they will have to change a few details. I’m guessing this may be one of those rare times when I will like the film better than the book but I’ll reserve judgement on that for now until the movie comes out in July. If you haven’t seen the trailer yet, here it is in all it's glory (just remember to wipe up your drool after watching.



Alex Flinn is the author of several books but Beastly is the first of her novels to be made into a movie. You can visit her website by clicking here.