Common Sense Media Review
By Andrea Beach
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Breezy summer romance has close friends, some substance use.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 13+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Read
Parent and Kid Reviews
Based on 25 parent reviews
Parents say the book is generally well-received for its relatable characters and beautiful exploration of relationships, though some reviews note that it contains inappropriate language, references to alcohol and drugs, making it more suitable for older tweens or teens. Many agree that while it may be entertaining for younger readers, parental discretion is advised due to mature themes and some emotional content.
- fun characters
- mature themes
- emotional depth
- suitable for teens
- parental discretion
Summarized with AI
Summarized with AI
Based on 82 kid reviews
Kids say the book is a fun and relatable summer read that captures the essence of adolescent romance, appealing especially to preteens and teens. However, it also faces criticism for its portrayal of superficial characters and themes of underage drinking, smoking, and some crude language, making it more suitable for mature young readers.
- summer romance
- young adult
- mature content
- superficial characters
- mixed reviews
Summarized with AI
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 is 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 has 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?
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?
Which characters demonstrate compassion, communication, and empathy? Why are these important character strengths?
Book Details
- Author :
- Genre : Romance
- Topics : Family Stories ( Siblings ) , Friendship
- Character Strengths : Communication , Compassion , Empathy
- Book type : Fiction
- Publisher : Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers
- Publication date : April 6, 2010
- Publisher's recommended age(s) : 12 - 17
- Number of pages : 304
- Available on : Paperback, Audiobook (unabridged), Hardback, Apple Books, Kindle
- Last updated : December 11, 2025
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