"The Summer I Turned Pretty" by Jenny Han is a coming-of-age novel that follows the story of Belly, a teenage girl who spends every summer at the beach with her family and their family friends, the Fischers. The novel explores themes of love, friendship, and growing up as Belly navigates her feelings for the two Fisher brothers, Conrad and Jeremiah.
The plot of the book is centered around Belly's relationships with Conrad and Jeremiah, as well as her relationships with her family and friends. Throughout the novel, Belly grapples with her feelings for both brothers, trying to navigate the complexities of love and friendship. The story is told through a series of flashbacks, alternating between Belly's past summers at the beach and the present summer, where she begins to see the brothers in a new light.
One of the strengths of the novel is its exploration of the nuances of relationships and the complexities of growing up. Han does a great job of capturing the awkwardness and confusion of teenage emotions, as well as the joy and heartbreak that come with first loves. The characters are well-developed and relatable, making it easy for readers to become invested in Belly's journey.
Overall, "The Summer I Turned Pretty" is a heartfelt and engaging read that will resonate with readers of all ages. It is a nostalgic and bittersweet story that captures the essence of summer love and the bittersweetness of growing up. Fans of contemporary YA fiction will enjoy this book for its relatable characters, emotional depth, and poignant exploration of love and friendship.