Perfect Appearances Quotes

How we cite our quotes: (Chapter.Paragraph)

Quote #1

[…] when/did creating a flawless façade/become a more vital goal/than learning to love the person/who/lives inside your skin? (1.4-5)

Hopkins begins the book with Cara's question, which is the same question the other narrators are dealing with. Cara and Andre are closer to finding their authentic selves than Sean and Kendra—at least they have genuine passions (Dani and dance).

Quote #2

When I look at her, I have/to admit her beauty regime/is working. It's as if by sheer/force of will she won't permit/wrinkles to etch her suede/complexion. But I know, deep/down, she is afraid of time. (1.35-36)

Seeing through her mom's fear is another way Cara is more insightful than the other narrators. If nothing else, she knows her parents aren't genuinely happy.

Quote #3

I grew up knowing I was/pretty and believing everything/good/about me had to do with how/I looked. The mirror was my best/friend. Until it started telling/me I wasn't really pretty/enough. (2.3-4)

The more pressure her parents and agents put on her, the more Kendra's mirror starts to lie. It's another judge, another reminder that she doesn't measure up.