Review of The Summer I Turned Pretty by Jenny Han
I must admit, The Summer I Turned Pretty piqued my interest not only because of its charming cover but also due to its heartfelt premise, woven by the talented Jenny Han. As a lover of coming-of-age stories, I was instantly drawn to the central theme of youth, identity, and the bittersweet nature of first love. When I heard that this beloved series is now a hit show on Prime Video, I knew I had to dive into the pages of the book that started it all.
At its core, the novel introduces us to Isabel “Belly” Conklin, a girl who measures her life in summers. Each year, she eagerly anticipates the months spent at her family’s summer house in Cousins, alongside her best friends, the Fisher brothers—Conrad and Jeremiah. This summer, however, turns into something extraordinary as Belly evolves from a young girl into a blossoming woman, igniting a love triangle that whimsically captures the turbulence of growing up.
Jenny Han crafts a narrative that feels like a warm embrace. Her writing style combines poetic nuance with relatable dialogue, allowing readers to feel the pulse of Belly’s emotions as she navigates the complexities of her relationships. The pacing is leisurely, reminiscent of lazy summer days, which may not appeal to everyone, but it serves to build the tension and atmosphere effectively. I found myself savoring the moments—each fleeting glance and hushed conversation seemed monumental in a way only first loves can be.
What struck me the most were the characters, particularly Belly. She is both relatable and multifaceted, wrestling with insecurities while discovering her identity. I loved her innocence and naivety, mirrored in her interactions with Conrad, her unrequited crush, and Jeremiah, her ever-supportive best friend. Their dynamic is at once enchanting and chaotic, and it captures the essence of young love in all its glory. One particularly poignant line reads, “Sometimes I wish I didn’t have to take my heart out to show it,” which resonated deeply with me as it encapsulates the vulnerability we all feel in love.
Furthermore, I appreciated how Han intricately weaves the theme of familial relationships throughout the book. Belly’s relationships with her mother and the unraveling of Susannah (the boys’ mother) add layers of depth to the story, reminding readers that growing up is not solely about romance but also about understanding the complexities of family, loss, and friendship.
I believe The Summer I Turned Pretty will resonate most with readers looking for an honest portrayal of young love and self-discovery. It’s a book that encourages reflection on those formative summers that shape who we become—echoing the feelings of nostalgia and yearning that many of us can relate to. Whether you’re a teenager navigating your first crush or an adult reminiscing about those carefree days of youth, this novel offers a poignant reminder of the magic found in summer and the bittersweetness of growing up.
In conclusion, if you’re yearning for a book that is as enchanting as a sun-soaked beach day, The Summer I Turned Pretty is your perfect companion. Han’s narrative feels like a gentle nudge to relive your own summer memories, infused with laughter, heartbreak, and joy. Trust me, you’ll want to join Belly on her journey—you may just find a piece of yourself in her story. So grab your sunglasses, a cozy blanket, and prepare for a reading experience that’ll keep you engaged until the last page.
You can find The Summer I Turned Pretty here >>