Big Mouth & Ugly Girl by Joyce Carol Oates follows high school juniors Matt Donaghy and Ursula Riggs as they navigate false accusations, ostracism, and developing a resilient friendship. After Matt is wrongly accused of threatening violence, Ursula defends him, leading to a journey of emotional discovery where they both learn to accept themselves and challenge societal judgments. Subjects discussed in this book include bullying, mental health, and trauma.

Reviews of Joyce Carol Oates's Big Mouth & Ugly Girl praise its compelling portrayal of adolescent struggles and the growth of authentic, complex characters, particularly Ursula Riggs and Matt Donaghy. Critics highlight Oates's sharp, engaging prose. However, some note a few plot implausibilities and find the resolution somewhat rushed. Overall, it’s an engaging, thought-provoking read.

Readers who enjoy The Perks of Being a Wallflower by Stephen Chbosky or Speak by Laurie Halse Anderson will find Big Mouth & Ugly Girl by Joyce Carol Oates compelling. The book suits teens and young adults who appreciate themes of identity, high school challenges, and resilience, conveyed through genuine, emotionally complex characters.

Challenging / Emotional / Mysterious / Melancholic / Contemplative

- Big Mouth & Ugly Girl marked Joyce Carol Oates' debut into writing young adult fiction, showcasing her versatility as an author who primarily wrote for adults prior to this.
- The novel was published in 2002 and set against the backdrop of the post-Columbine era, reflecting societal concerns and themes relevant to that period.
- Joyce Carol Oates has mentioned that the collaboration on the cover design of Big Mouth & Ugly Girl reflected an intentional move to engage a younger audience through visually appealing artwork.

**Ursula Riggs**  
Known as Ugly Girl, Ursula is a standout athlete who defies traditional feminine norms. She is known for her principled and courageous actions in confronting challenges and supporting others.

**Matt Donaghy**  
Nicknamed Big Mouth, Matt is a talented and articulate high school junior entangled in controversy due to a misunderstood joke. His experiences drive the narrative's depiction of friendship and resilience.

**Trevor Cassity**  
A senior football player known for his aggressiveness and popularity, Trevor is involved in serious conflicts with other characters. His actions emphasize the novel's exploration of bullying and its effects.

**Muriel and Miriam Brewer**  
These twin sisters are seniors who antagonize fellow students and play a significant role in the unfolding events. Their actions are influenced by their upbringing in a prejudiced environment.

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Chapters 1-5

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Chapters 6-9

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Chapters 10-15

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Chapters 16-24

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Chapters 25-33

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Chapters 34-38

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Chapters 39-43

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Chapters 44-49

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