This is the kind of book that instantly transports you into the golden haze of beach days, late-night swims, and the bittersweet magic of growing up. At its heart is Belly, a girl who has always spent her summers at Cousins Beach with her mom, her brother, and the Fisher boys—Conrad and Jeremiah. But this summer feels different. Belly isn’t just the little sister tag-along anymore; she’s finally being noticed, and with that attention comes the whirlwind of first love, shifting friendships, and the ache of change. Han perfectly captures that fragile in-between stage of adolescence where everything feels heightened—every look, every touch, every moment.
What makes the story resonate is how tender and real Belly’s journey feels. Jenny Han writes with an intimacy that makes the smallest moments—an offhand comment, a glance across the pool, a quiet night on the porch—feel loaded with meaning. The love triangle between Belly, Conrad, and Jeremiah isn’t just about romance; it’s about identity, longing, and figuring out who you are when the people around you start to see you differently. Conrad’s brooding distance and Jeremiah’s easy warmth pull Belly in opposite directions, but it’s never just about choosing between them—it’s about navigating her own heart.
Ultimately, The Summer I Turned Pretty is more than a beach read—it’s a nostalgic coming-of-age story that reminds you of your own summers when everything felt like it could change overnight. It’s tender, a little messy, and filled with the kind of yearning that stays with you long after the last page. Han’s writing shines with emotion, making this the perfect start to a series that explores love, family, and the unforgettable summers that shape us.
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