The Summer I Turned Pretty (trilogy)
| Company type | Book series |
|---|---|
| Industry | Publishing |
| Founded | 2009 |
| Founder | Jenny Han |
| Products | Young adult romance novels |
| Parent | Simon & Schuster |
The Summer I Turned Pretty is a trilogy of young adult romance novels authored by American writer Jenny Han and released through Simon & Schuster. This collection consists of The Summer I Turned Pretty (2009), It's Not Summer Without You (2010), and We'll Always Have Summer (2011). The narrative centers on Isabel "Belly" Conklin as she spends her summers at Cousins Beach alongside family and friends. The series gained national bestseller recognition, with the concluding volume remaining on The New York Times Best Seller list for over a month.
A TV adaptation debuted on Amazon Prime Video on June 17, 2022.
Books in the series
- The Summer I Turned Pretty (2009)
- It's Not Summer Without You (2010)
- We’ll Always Have Summer (2011)
Characters
- Isabel "Belly" Conklin: Serving as the main character and storyteller, Belly is Laurel’s daughter and Steven’s younger sister. She navigates complicated dynamics with Conrad and Jeremiah Fisher, brothers who play significant roles in her life. After ending a brief romance with Conrad, she begins dating Jeremiah, who later betrays her by cheating. Although engaged to Jeremiah, persistent conflicts and rekindled feelings for Conrad lead to their separation. The epilogue reveals Belly’s reunion and marriage with Conrad.
- Conrad "Con" Fisher: The eldest child of Susannah and Adam Fisher and Jeremiah’s older brother. Initially withdrawn and self-destructive, Conrad gradually develops strong affection for Belly. Despite a rocky relationship and personal challenges—including safeguarding the family beach house—he ultimately admits his love for Belly once more. Their reconciliation culminates in marriage by the series’ conclusion.
- Jeremiah "Jere" Fisher: The younger Fisher brother known for his charm, who transitions from a supportive companion to a troubled fiancé. He pursues Belly despite his brother’s feelings, eventually betraying her trust through infidelity, which leads to their broken engagement. His strained bond with Conrad ends in disownment. Jeremiah makes an appearance at Conrad and Belly’s wedding accompanied by a new partner.
- Susannah "Beck" Fisher: The family matriarch whose passing from cancer profoundly impacts the family’s relationships and decisions throughout the storyline.
- Mr. Fisher: The patriarch who faces difficulties following Susannah’s death, including attempts to sell the family beach house and experiencing tension with his sons. Despite some reservations, he funds Jeremiah and Belly’s wedding.
- Taylor Jewel: Belly’s closest friend whose initially boy-obsessed attitude matures over time. She stands by Belly during difficult moments and confronts Conrad about his behavior toward her.
- Laurel Dunne: Belly’s mother and Susannah’s longtime friend. Frequently at odds with Belly over life choices, she eventually reconciles during pivotal events, including assisting with wedding preparations.
- Steven Conklin: Belly’s protective older brother who provides support and advice throughout her experiences.
- Cam: A summer romance from the first novel who briefly features in Belly’s early romantic encounters.
Television adaptation
In 2013, the rights to transform the trilogy into a television format were secured by Lions Gate Entertainment. On February 8, 2021, Amazon commissioned an eight-episode series developed and executive-produced by Jenny Han and Gabrielle Stanton, with additional executive producers Karen Rosenfelt, Paul Lee, Nne Ebong, and Hope Hartman. The production took place in Wilmington, North Carolina, and the initial seven-episode season was released on June 17, 2022. The second season premiered on July 14, 2023, maintaining the show's strong viewership. The concluding third season was launched on July 16, 2025.