Peyton Marcus has it all. The anchor at a top morning news show, she has an adoring husband and a talented daughter. She has the best nutritionists, fitness gurus and surgeons on speed dial. She’s eyeing prime time, and with her ratings, it won’t be long before she gets there.

With her success, Peyton has been able to give her daughter, Max, every advantage there is. Max has gone to a prestigious private school, traveled the world to do service work, and has had access to every resource imaginable. She wants to pursue a career in film and skip the whole college process. However, Peyton and her husband, Isaac, push Max to apply early to Princeton, where she gets accepted, much to their delight.

"WHERE THE GRASS IS GREEN AND THE GIRLS ARE PRETTY is a striking commentary on the toxicity of college admissions, elite prep schools and the influence of the rich."

There’s no denying that Peyton’s sister, Skye, is also that girl. After a full scholarship to Amherst, she worked in Uganda, increasing access to education for impoverished communities. Now, alongside her adoring husband Gabe, she raises her daughter Aurora in one of the best schools in New York. A helicopter parent to rival them all, Skye can tell you the best sports, snacks and social activities to set up a child for success. But she longs for something more than her current role as a stay-at-home mom.

From the outside, these sisters rule the world. But only they know that their lives are precariously balanced on a bed of lies. Only when the curtain gets drawn and secrets are brought to light will it be revealed that their lives are not as picture-perfect as they may seem. In fact, they are much messier.

The author of THE DEVIL WEARS PRADA brings us another captivating tale about womanhood and the endless struggle between career, family and health. One of Weisberger’s many strengths is her ability to write compelling characters. Peyton and Skye have such complementing personalities, and we see how their history has helped shape who they are now. We are able to empathize with them, understanding their desires, problems and behavior. I especially adored Max, who is strong, passionate and talented. Overall, Weisberger’s exploration of these family dynamics and friendships is quite engaging.

I also appreciate that Weisberger incorporated the Varsity Blues scandal into the story. The details about Princeton are entertaining, as they are accurate little Easter eggs for anyone familiar with the university and its traditions.

WHERE THE GRASS IS GREEN AND THE GIRLS ARE PRETTY is a striking commentary on the toxicity of college admissions, elite prep schools and the influence of the rich.