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Appearances Quotes in Mortal Engines

How we cite our quotes: (Chapter.Paragraph)

Quote #1

Tom gazed at [Katherine] in wonder. He had seen pictures of Valentine's daughter, but he had never realized how beautiful she was. (2.22)

Don't worry if you missed this line; you'll be reminded about how beautiful Katherine is on pretty much every page for the next three or four chapters.

Quote #2

[Tom] wondered if [the assassin] was pretty: a beautiful assassin from the Anti-Traction League. (3.4)

If the assassin were a dude, do you think Tom would give two hoots what he looked like? Why does the assassin's appearance even matter to Tom?

Quote #3

She was no older than Tom, and she was hideous. (3.7)

The first thought that runs through Tom's head isn't: "I caught the assassin!" It's: "This girl is uglier than a tarantula sandwich." Why does he place such value on physical appearance, even in a life-or-death situation?