In Julie Garwood's book "The Prize," the author presents the idea that a woman's physical appearance is largely beyond her control, as it is determined by traits she is born with. The notion of beauty is subjective, and one is either perceived as attractive or not. This perspective highlights the inevitability of how society views physical beauty.

Contrastingly, Garwood emphasizes that a woman's character is within her control and significantly impacts her worth. Unlike looks, which are fixed, a person's character can be developed through actions, choices, and integrity. This distinction suggests that while a woman may not influence her looks, she has the power to shape who she is and how she is perceived based on her character.