When it comes to teen series that genuinely capture the essence of growing up, falling in love, and letting go of innocence, The Summer I Turned Pretty stands out as a contemporary gem. Produced by Amazon Prime Video and based on the beloved books by Jenny Han the author behind the To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before phenomenon this series dives into a summer of transformation, both physical and emotional, for Isabel “Belly” Conklin.
The story follows Belly, who spends every summer at the Fisher family’s beach house in Cousins Beach. But this summer is different. Belly has changed, matured, and suddenly, she’s no longer “the little sister” she’s the one turning heads, especially those of the Fisher brothers: Conrad and Jeremiah. Thus begins a love triangle set against crashing waves, golden sunsets, and teen parties that smell like salt and freedom.
What sets The Summer I Turned Pretty apart from other shows in its genre is its emotional depth. It’s not just about teen romance. The series tackles themes like grief, divorce, illness, female friendship, and self-discovery. Every character carries their own emotional summer. Conrad, the older brother, embodies introspection and inner conflict; Jeremiah, the exuberant need to be seen; and Belly, the girl in the middle of it all, undergoing a quiet but powerful transformation.
Visually, the series is a dream. Warm tones, natural light, breezy dresses, and coastal landscapes create an atmosphere that feels both nostalgic and cinematic. The art direction makes Cousins Beach feel like another character, a silent witness to confessions, heartbreaks, stolen kisses, and life-changing choices.
One of the most talked-about elements is the soundtrack. Featuring artists like Taylor Swift and Phoebe Bridgers, the music mirrors the characters’ emotional highs and lows as if each episode were a personal diary set to song. This isn’t by accident; each track seems handpicked to amplify the emotional resonance of the moment.
Representation is another area where the show shines. With Jenny Han actively involved as a showrunner, the story maintains an authentic perspective on the teenage female experience, racial diversity, and emotional complexity elements often glossed over in similar productions.
Although the spotlight is on the teen drama, the adults are not forgotten. The mothers Laurel (Belly’s mom) and Susannah (the Fisher brothers’ mom) add depth and maturity to the story, reminding us that summers can be life-changing at any age.Ultimately, The Summer I Turned Pretty is a love letter to those unforgettable summers that change us forever. With a gentle yet gripping rhythm, it immerses us in the emotional tides of first love and first heartbreak. If you’ve ever had a summer that split your life in two, this series will feel like home.
