“The Summer I Turned Pretty,” a popular show based on the book series by author Jenny Han, has sparked interest across the world, and in our school community. Its relatable coming-of-age story, emotional depth, and romantic drama has us all talking. It is based on a teenage girl named Belly, who spends every summer at a beach house with two brothers in which a love triangle forms between them.
The series explores themes of identity, first love, and growing up. This season has gained curiosity from new fans because it is the final season to wrap up the show. Season 3 has even more popularity, as according to Deadline, “25 million global viewers have watched it within its first seven days of availability.” The show has appeared to create a resurgence of “Team Jacob” or “Team Edward” from the movie series “Twilight,” and instead replacing it with “Team Jeremiah” or “Team Conrad.” The way the show portrays the lifelong, wild ride of romance that most people dream of seems to attract viewers.
A student at Mark Keppel High School, Junior Yaretzi Encizo, was asked what she dislikes about the characters in the show. Encizo shared, “The characters don’t handle anything well the first time! Even the parents are immature.” After having a conversation with Encizo, she made clear she is “Team Conrad,” because he loves Belly and doesn’t mistreat her. She said she does not recommend this show because it upsets her.
The final episode was recently released and now has fans impatiently waiting for more. To viewers’ delight, “The Summer I Turned Pretty” movie was announced, gaining even more traction on social media. Many have connected with the characters through relatable experiences such as complicated relationships and finding your identity throughout youth.
Samantha Bustamante, a freshman at Mark Keppel High School, first knew about the books before the show, and enjoys the book series even more. Bustamante feels that the show promotes good treatment towards women and allows young women to recognize unfair treatment. She states the show is “great for those who like romance,” and it seems to appeal to a wide range of ages. As emotion from supporters build, “The Summer I Turned Pretty” continues to influence conversations throughout our school community. Bustamante and plenty of students loved the new season and are looking forward to “The Summer I Turned Pretty” movie.
