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Parents' Guide to

The Summer I Turned Pretty, Book 1

By Andrea Beach, Common Sense Media Reviewer

age 13+

Breezy summer romance with close-knit friends and family.

Book Jenny Han Romance 2010
Illustrations of seashells on a green-blue background.

A Lot or a Little?

What you will—and won't—find in this book.

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age 10+

Based on 6 parent reviews

emma A.
emma A. Parent of 7, 8, 10, 12 and 13-year-old
July 20, 2023
age 9+

my kids love it

this book is perfect for ages 10+. it has very good messages, funny characters, and overall just an entertaining plot. there is little swearing, but i personally don’t think a few words should make you miss out on reading this amazing book. i HIGHLY recommend this book to anyone wanting a good, entertaining read.
priyanka K.
priyanka K. Adult
March 28, 2023
age 10+

Great for all ages!

I read this book after my 10-year-old daughter did, and I expected it to be another basic book but was actually blown away by the characters and storyline. I would recommend this to anyone over the age of 10, especially younger girls! There is nothing inappropriate in this novel, however, there are a few scenes that depict drinking and smoking but nothing over-the-top. 4/5 stars!
See all 6 parent reviews

What's the Story?

THE SUMMER I TURNED PRETTY finds 15-year-old Belly arriving at the summer beach home she and her family have shared with another family every summer for Belly's entire life. The house belongs to her mom's best friend, who has two boys a little older than Belly. As the only girl in the house, Belly has struggled with feelings of being left out of the boys' activities, and as the youngest, with being treated like a baby. Belly's just looking forward to this summer being the same as always, especially because it's the only time she gets to spend with the boy she's loved since she was 11. But Belly's changed in the last year. People see her differently now that she's more grown up. She starts to see herself and others differently, too. Is she really starting to fall for someone new?

Is It Any Good?

Our review:
Parents say (6 ):
Kids say (20 ):

This is a breezy, light, but heartfelt summer romance that fans of the genre will enjoy. The Summer I Turned Pretty is especially strong at evoking the pleasures of a summer at the beach, and the value in strong family ties and bonds of lifelong friendship. Jumping around in time through a series of flashbacks keeps the story moving, and it's always easy to follow and understand when events are taking place.

There are some minor inconsistencies, and some readers may get frustrated that Belly turns everything around to herself. But her insecurities make her easy to relate to, and readers will root for her growing sense of independence.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about the book and TV versions of The Summer I Turned Pretty. If you're familiar with both, how are they different? Which do you prefer?

  • Why are romances so popular? What do we love about them? What are some of your favorites?

  • What do you think of Belly? Do you like her? Is she a believable character? Why, or why not?

Book Details

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Research shows a connection between kids' healthy self-esteem and positive portrayals in media. That's why we've added a new "Diverse Representations" section to our reviews that will be rolling out on an ongoing basis. You can help us help kids by suggesting a diversity update.

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