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The Summer I Turned Pretty

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2009

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Book Brief

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Jenny Han

The Summer I Turned Pretty

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2009
Book Details
Pages

276

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Cousins Beach • Contemporary

Publication Year

2009

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

12-18 years

Lexile Level

HL600L

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Super Short Summary

In The Summer I Turned Pretty by Jenny Han, Isabel “Belly” Conklin spends her summers at Cousins Beach with her family and the Fisher family, navigating her feelings for brothers Conrad and Jeremiah. Belly notices this summer is different as both boys start seeing her in a new light, leading to a complex triangle of emotions and maturation as she grapples with her evolving relationships and the inevitability of change.

Romantic

Nostalgic

Bittersweet

Emotional

Heartwarming

Reviews & Readership

4.1

916,159 ratings

62%

Loved it

27%

Mixed feelings

10%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

The Summer I Turned Pretty by Jenny Han is praised for its heartfelt and relatable portrayal of teenage emotions and summer romance. Readers appreciate the vivid depiction of seaside settings and the emotional depth of the protagonist's journey. However, some criticize the predictability of the plot and the lack of character complexity. Overall, it's a nostalgic and engaging summer read.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Summer I Turned Pretty?

Fans of The Summer I Turned Pretty by Jenny Han typically enjoy coming-of-age romances filled with teenage love triangles, beach settings, and emotional growth. Readers who favored Sarah Dessen's Along for the Ride or Stephanie Perkins' Anna and the French Kiss will find similar charm and relatability in Han's storytelling.

4.1

916,159 ratings

62%

Loved it

27%

Mixed feelings

10%

Not a fan

Character List

ISABEL “BELLY” CONKLIN

A 15-year-old girl on the cusp of adulthood, spending her summers at a beach house with her family friends. Her evolving relationships and internal struggles shape much of the story's emotional landscape.

The older of the Fisher brothers, characterized by his brooding nature and complexity. His relationship with Belly is central to the narrative's development.

The outgoing and athletic younger Fisher brother known for his easygoing friendship with Belly. His dynamics with Belly add layers to the summer experience.

Belly's mother, known for her calm demeanor and sometimes distant relationship with her daughter. She plays a stabilizing role in Belly's life despite underlying tensions.

The vibrant and intuitive mother of Conrad and Jeremiah, and a close family friend to Belly. Her warmth and supportive presence are pivotal in the family's summer gatherings.

Book Details
Pages

276

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Cousins Beach • Contemporary

Publication Year

2009

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

12-18 years

Lexile Level

HL600L

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