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The Summer I Turned Pretty (Summer #1)

by Jenny Han (Goodreads Author)

4.05 of 5 stars 4.05 · rating details · 31,894 ratings · 3,060 reviews

Belly measures her life in summers. Everything good, everything magical happens between the months of June and August. Winters are simply a time to count the weeks until the next summer, a place away from the beach house, away from Susannah, and most importantly, away from Jeremiah and Conrad. They are the boys that Belly has known since her very first summer--they have be...more

Hardcover, 276 pages

Published May 5th 2009 by Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers

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Jul 27, 2012 Ruth rated it 1 of 5 stars

I nearly melted when Conrad was introduced. That strong, silent, protective guy, why, he was even sexier than Edward Cullen! And although he didn't sparkle, he certainly made up for it by his sorrowful brooding, which my heart soared out to. I mean, who DOESN'T understand when someone who is in pain turns to drinking and picking fights at parties?There is just something so alluring, so captivating, about Conrad, because what he does not say or do in words is immediately engraved in my ever-lovin...more

125 likes · like · see review

Feb 25, 2011 Arlene rated it 2 of 5 stars

Shelves: read-2010, ya-contemporary, young-adult

There was so much about this book that bothered me, and I almost gave up on it several times. I think the thing that bothered me most though was the protagonist. Very often, if I can't connect or feel compassion for the main character, the book has slim to no chance of winning me over. In my opinion, Belly was such an immature, self-focused and petulant child. Her actions and feelings about events and people really were annoying that I wanted to shake some sense into her, I'll provide more speci...more There was so much about this book that bothered me, and I almost gave up on it several times. I think the thing that bothered me most though was the protagonist. Very often, if I can't connect or feel compassion for the main character, the book has slim to no chance of winning me over. In my opinion, Belly was such an immature, self-focused and petulant child. Her actions and feelings about events and people really were annoying that I wanted to shake some sense into her, I'll provide more specifics in a few.

But first, one of the biggest things that irk me, and for those that know my reading style, they will laugh because I've said this often times before, I can't stand when an author doesn't tell you the name of the person narrating the story or who the story is about. Very few, maybe like one or two books (The Gargoyle being one) have been exempt from this number one rule of mine, I want to know who is talking to me or who the story is about right away! "Belly" doesn't cut it , especially when I find belly buttons gross and cringe-worthy. Ewwww! It's not until more than half way through the book that we find out her real name is Isabel, but by then it was too late, I was calling her Bellatrix in my head and couldn't get it out. Sorry, but it just happened naturally.

Overall, it bothered me how selfish Bellatrix… errr… I mean Belly was to those in her life, including family and friends. For example, her father tried so hard with her by buying her books, a piano and fixing up a room in his new apartment in the hopes she'd come to enjoy spending some time with him, but NOOOOO she didn't like the books he chose, the piano was out of tune and she wanted the yellow sheets, not the pink scratchy sheets. Ugh! Also, she has no real heartfelt relationships with ANYONE. She uses her best friend Taylor by inviting her to the beach house for the sole purpose that maybe she'll be able to fit in better with the crowd because of Taylor, but it ends up backfiring so she ends up resenting her BF. Her relationship with her brother is downright mean and shallow, nothing heartfelt or aww-worthy there. Even her friendship with Jeremiah and Conrad left much to be desired. It bothered me when Jeremiah and Belly overheard a convo between their mothers about Suzanne's breast cancer and Belly had no clue how to comfort him, all she could think of saying was "I hope your mom doesn't lose a boob." Really? That's all you got?? Glad you kept that in your little air-filled noggin and didn't say it out loud. How about just give him a hug and ask him if he's okay or wants to talk?? There were so many opportunities for her to show some depth and growth, but she just fell flat IMO.

BUT, the thing that bothered me the most is that she crushes on two brothers. That's just gross!! Pick one and stop with the "I like Jeremiah... no... I like Conrad... oh I shared a Twizzler with Jeremiah now I like him more again... Oh wait I like Conrad's dark and brooding side, I change my mind, I like him better." That gets irritating right quick next to her feeling that life got better for her when she turned pretty. No really, she felt I'm pretty now, life is like sooooo good now! I love being sooooo pretty. I was ugly before and an outsider, but now I'm pretty. Yay for me! Whatevs! *shakes head*

Lastly, the writing was simple and the storyline wasn't very complex at all, except for trying to figure out who this Belly girl really was. The story did switch back from present to past in random ways, but I don't consider that complex, just slightly irksome. The one thing the book did have going for it was the setting. I like seaside, beachfront, boardwalk settings, but that wasn't enough to hook me… I'd much prefer a Dessen book to provide me that fix. All in all, there's better out there IMHO.

Okay, this review feels sloppy and random... I'll just blame it on the book. DONE! (less)

133 likes · like · see review

Jan 05, 2012 Tanja (Tanychy) St. Delphi rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: we-girls-like-to-read-together, favorites, romance

Amazing...that's only thing i can say! :) I recommend this book to everybody. One of the best books I've ever read :)

EDIT: 19 likes for two sentences? seriously, well thank you! Still this book is probably the best summer book ever.

70 likes · like · see review

Jan 21, 2012 Melannie :) rated it 1 of 5 stars

Shelves: read-2011

I didn't like this book.

The thing that bother me the most was the girl, Belly, she was VERY annoying. I also just couldn't connect with the story, I mean all the book is about how much she loooooves Conrad (one of her mom's best friend's sons) and everything in her lifes revolves around Conrad.

It was bording on obsession actually, she came across as pathetic. And she complained about EVERYTHING, that the boys wouldn't play with her, that the boys weren't paying her attention, that her bestfriend...more

41 likes · like · see review

Jun 04, 2012 Sam rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: realistic-or-contemporary, other-favourites, favourite-boys, romance, love-triangle

Contemporary fiction and I are hardly well acquainted, so it is always a much welcomed surprise when a book in this genre manages to grab my attention. Admittedly, any sort of story with a love triangle at its core is destined to frustrate me to some extent, and that much proved true for The Summer I Turned Pretty, but I was strangely content with the story overall. I have my favourite boy, and I have declared myself Team so-and-so (and things better end up the way I want them to), but trivial p...more Contemporary fiction and I are hardly well acquainted, so it is always a much welcomed surprise when a book in this genre manages to grab my attention. Admittedly, any sort of story with a love triangle at its core is destined to frustrate me to some extent, and that much proved true for The Summer I Turned Pretty, but I was strangely content with the story overall. I have my favourite boy, and I have declared myself Team so-and-so (and things better end up the way I want them to), but trivial points aside, this book proved to be a whole lot more touching and meaningful than I might have expected. I even felt a little teary at times.

The Summer I Turned Pretty is the tale of one girl and two boys, surrounded by the magic of summer. It is the story of Belly Conklin and her feelings for the Fisher brothers, Jeremiah and Conrad. And yet…it is so much more than that. This book does not take place in two bubbles, with Belly and Jeremiah in one, and Conrad and Belly in another. It is bigger than that, with several other characters and several other, and more important, issues coming into play. Instead of being about a love-struck teen who can’t ‘pick’, The Summer I Turned Pretty is a book, essentially, about family.

The characters are so important in a book like this, where there isn’t a complex and riddle-filled plot to distract the reader away. I’m glad to say that Jenny Han managed to create a wonderful handful of core characters that were impossible not to appreciate. From Belly’s brother Steven (who I hope has more of a presence in the next book) to Jeremiah and Conrad’s mother Susannah, I enjoyed reading about them all and felt each one left a little impression on me. I will warn that Belly takes some getting used to (I thought so, anyway) as she isn’t the perfect main character and does have a tendency to come across as immature several times throughout the book. However, I found myself too lost in the story to really be bothered by her irritating traits.

Conrad and Jeremiah are both very different characters and likeable for different reasons. Where Conrad is protective and distant, Jeremiah is more relatable and vocal. Admittedly, Conrad’s dejected attitude steered me towards Jeremiah for most of the book, but once the reasons for his behaviour were revealed, I couldn’t help but feel terrible for him. In the end, I think I preferred Jeremiah overall, but both boys proved to be admirable characters. Their love for their mother, Susannah, was one my favourite things about them.

Jenny Han took me on a roller coaster of an emotional ride with her story. Perhaps it was the fact I wasn’t expecting cancer to play a role in this book (I tend to avoid books about cancer) and it caught me a little off guard. I was rooting for these characters, who in any other book I probably wouldn’t have appreciated so greatly, and I was praying to see a happy ending. I’m still hoping for a happy follow-up in the next book, but I think the worst is inevitable. Regardless, I will prepare myself for what is to come (or what I think is to come) as I am eager to visit these characters again.

(This review also appears on my blog)

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40 likes · like · see review

Mar 11, 2012 Judith (Judith'sChoiceReads) rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: books-i-want-to-own, crazy-phenomenal, crazy-romantic, favorites, good-reads, heroines-with-spunk, hunks-of-the-world, must-haves, series-i-love, unpredictable, read-again

Rating: 4 1/2 stars

Characters: 5 stars

Setting: 5 stars

Plot: 4

Honourable Mention: To Susannah. For being the embodiment of summer, and pretty much perfect.

***OOH, possible spoilers ahead guys, watch out!

Well. So that was...

I feel a lot like this:

Because I am sure of two things:

1.) I freaking love this series. And Conrad. I really freaking adore him, more than Jeremiah I am happy to say. Ah, to be young and fictionally in love...

2.) This is my new favourite series.

~~And three, because I'm~~...more

35 likes · like · see review

Jan 05, 2012 Aly (Fantasy4eva) rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition Recommends it for: Those that have always wished for the perfect summer, for that perfect someone.

Shelves: boys-that-make-me-swoon, favourites, oh-how-the-heart-flutters, pleasantly-surprised, hilarious

Rating: 4.5

I'm so glad I bought this with me now. It's one of those books that guarantee's you butterflies and giggles.

Every summer Belly visits cousins Beach with her mother and brother. There they meet up with Susannah (her mothers best friend) and her two boy's, Conrad and Jeremiah. Belly has always loved Conrad. But she has always been able to rely on Jer. He's the safety net, the sweet, uncomplicated best friend type-of-guy. But this summer promises to be different. You see, Belly's all gro...more

17 likes · like · see review

Oct 09, 2012 Demonic Circus Princess rated it 2 of 5 stars

Shelves: atmosphere, chosen-by-my-amazing-intuition, originality, shattered-my-heart, slow-at-first, warm-fuzzy-feelings, will-never-forget, beautiful-cover, hormonal-heroine-central, i-swear-the-heroine-has-pms, one-or-two-redeeming-characters, stupid-decisions, stupid-love-interest

I'm not really sure why I liked this book---whether it was because of the actual story or because of the setting and background. Probably the latter.

Isabel's (I refuse to call her "Belly") summers are spent with her Mom's best friend, Susanna, and her two sons, Jeremiah and Conrad, down the shore. The way their summers are described are so painfully realistic. My friends always talk about going down the shore during the summer, and the one time I went with them, this book reminded me of that tim...more

9 likes · like · see review

Aug 02, 2012 Jude rated it 1 of 5 stars

Shelves: in-my-shelf

I’ve heard a lot of gushing and good reviews about this novel, and that it has a lot of similarities to Sarah Dessen’s stories. Well, let me tell you, I do NOT agree, and I’m a HUGE fan of Sarah Dessen, and to compare it with her works? To be honest I find it insulting, even if Sarah Dessen herself said that this story was great, I just didn’t feel it. And it's not because I had a lot of expectations of the book, I swear I had never heard of it, but it seemed interesting, and it had a 30% off.

Be...more I’ve heard a lot of gushing and good reviews about this novel, and that it has a lot of similarities to Sarah Dessen’s stories. Well, let me tell you, I do NOT agree, and I’m a HUGE fan of Sarah Dessen, and to compare it with her works? To be honest I find it insulting, even if Sarah Dessen herself said that this story was great, I just didn’t feel it. And it's not because I had a lot of expectations of the book, I swear I had never heard of it, but it seemed interesting, and it had a 30% off.

Belly is a great character, she is very easy to relate too, she’s a 16-year old that's trying to find herself and she has always been in love with this one guy, and now she sees a possibility with him. I really did like Belly, but I just didn’t like Conrad- Conrad being the guy she’s in love with, I found him to be a really annoying character, and sometimes he was plain rude to Belly, and to me, he acted childish, even though he was the oldest and most “mature” between him, his brother – Jem – and Belly. And yes, at the end Conrad does look at Belly like more than a friend, but I really think she practically forced him, and I never understood her attraction to him. A lot more goes through Belly’s summer, she develops a few other crushes and suffers a few situations that were very hard.

The story has a lot of flashbacks of old summer memories of Belly, I just find long flashbacks completely annoying and total turnoffs, I set the book aside at least four times, and then picked it up again just to see if it would get any better. It didn't.

And as for the end, I was like, What?! The whole story, the freakishly annoying flashbacks, and her struggles, for THIS! It's not even a real ending and it leaves tons of questions unanswered! That's when I found out that it was a series, but not even the bad ending (for me of course) will be enough to make me read the next one.

Maybe I’m wrong and crazy, and it’s the best book ever. I’ve just seen way too many good reviews, the curious thing is that all the good reviews I’ve read are from older people, I suppose it reminds them of when they were young. I simply didn’t found it great. I’ll leave this book to you guys, you should read it and make your own opinion, I just never found the spark.

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May 20, 2013 Hersheys rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: 2013-reads, contemporary, fantabulous

☼ An awesome summer read ☼

This story was so cute! I loved all the characters because each and every one of them made me grin happily.

Belly

"It was a summer I'd never, ever forget.It was the summer everything began. It was the summer I turned pretty."

Belly's whole life was measured in summers. According to her, winter didn't count. It was summer that mattered. Why? Because she gets to meet her two favorite boys, Conrad and Jeremiah.
I found Belly very amusing and fun to read about. She was such...more

15 likes · like · see review

Sep 03, 2012 cEe beE rated it 2 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: hard-to-finish

I found "The Summer I Turned Pretty" really difficult to get through. Thank god, I'm finally done.

15 yr old Belly's languid memories of summers past with the Fishers at their beach house went on too long and often meandered. Chapters go back and forth in timeline from when she was 11 and 12 and back to almost turning 16. I couldn't tell the difference in age because her voice remained petulant, and whiny throughout the book.
She talks about her long time crush on the older of two brothers, the b...more

5 likes · like · see review

May 31, 2012 Amy (Turn the Page) rated it 1 of 5 stars · review of another edition

The Summer I Turned Pretty is the first book in a YA series that by all accounts, seems to be well-loved and incredibly popular.

It’s your typical teenage love-triangle set against a pretty backdrop of sea, sun and sand, and not a whole lot else. With these types of books, when we all know what’s going to happen, it’s the characters and dialogue that really make the story.

It’s a pity then, that I so intensely disliked Isabel.

She was, to put it bluntly, a brat. (Other words I came to associate wit...more The Summer I Turned Pretty is the first book in a YA series that by all accounts, seems to be well-loved and incredibly popular.

It’s your typical teenage love-triangle set against a pretty backdrop of sea, sun and sand, and not a whole lot else. With these types of books, when we all know what’s going to happen, it’s the characters and dialogue that really make the story.

It’s a pity then, that I so intensely disliked Isabel.

She was, to put it bluntly, a brat. (Other words I came to associate with her included, but were not limited to: dull, spoilt, petulant, willfully ignorant, entitled little… madam.)

The moment Conrad, the elder boy-next-door is described, it’s so very obvious where this is all going, but it will still take three books to get there. And that’s great… if you enjoy the books. Sadly, I really, really didn’t. Conrad is the brother Isabel (sorry, but I simply refuse to call her Belly) has been ~~obsessed~~ in love with since she was ten. The dark-haired, soulful, guitar-playing one. Great at everything without even trying and who, interestingly, shows no apparent interest in Isabel for most of the book. His younger brother, Jeremiah doesn’t stand a chance really. Needless to say, I actually liked him better, although it’s a shame his character is never really developed beyond the designated lighthearted best friend. Perhaps it’s for the best, Jeremiah, when all’s said and done. I sense some painful times ahead for you.

I can totally see why this series is such a hit – what teenage girl doesn’t dream of suddenly morphing into a natural beauty, not to mention having all these hot guys fighting over you? But as an older reader, hearing over and over and over again how Isabel has ‘blossomed’ overnight quickly started to grate. It annoyed me that all anyone has to say about Isabel is related to her good looks. It irritated me that Isabel doesn’t have any hobbies, friends, aspirations, or life outside of the two months she spends at Cousin Beach. I disliked her attitude and her mooning over Conrad. And I absolutely hated how she played one brother of the other.

Thankfully and rather refreshingly, Han doesn’t feel the need to give one brother the typical bad-boy persona in this love-triangle. The natural choice would be Conrad, but in reality, he and Isabel barely interact, we just constantly hear about him courtesy of you-know-who. It’s almost painful to read really. Isabel acts as though they are in a romantic relationship when really it’s all in her head. She’s like a possessive, slightly crazy, ex-girlfriend. At one point, Conrad tells her, quite rightly, that there is no way that she, a 15-year-old kid, is leaving a party alone in the car of some strange guy that none of them even know. Isabel, in response, promptly throws a tantrum and literally screams insults at him and the girl he is talking to at the time. Conrad doesn’t treat Isabel badly, he treats her like she is: a whiney kid. Because, sadly, that’s all this girl does. Obsess and sulk.

Isabel is, I suppose, a stereotypical portrayal of a teenager. Incredibly young, naive, hormonal and completely self-absorbed. I imagine some readers will feel sorry for her, perhaps relate to how she is feeling, that first major crush, the pains of growing up etc. I couldn’t. I just didn’t like her. Isabel may well grow up a lot in the next two books, but I don’t have the patience or the inclination to watch this girl manipulate these two guys any further, going back and forth between them and probably forever damaging their relationship as brothers in the process. (There was also a third guy, Cam, who was far too nice and intelligent to deserve to be treated the way he was.)

The highlight of the book, for me, was the friendship between Susannah and Isabel’s mother. I loved how close they were, the way they confided their hardships and marriage problems in one another, how they would get away from life for a little while every summer to connect with themselves and each other, no men allowed. It was interesting seeing their relationship through Isabel’s eyes and I felt Han captured their bond very well. I just wish the story had focused on this aspect instead of being all about teenage angst.

I didn’t hate The Summer I Turned Pretty, but I’d be lying if I said I thought it was good storytelling. It wasn’t until I had finished reading, that it occurred to me just how little there is to this book, and just how much I disliked the main character. Do I recommend it? No. Though I suppose it’s a reasonable enough choice for a summer beach read, if you’re not the kind to be put off by a lack of real plot (which the constant backwards and forwards timeline couldn’t disguise), underdeveloped or underused characters or a worn-out, cliché, set up. But really, why bother, when there are so much more engaging and fun, summer-romance books out there to be read?(less)

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Jul 21, 2011 Hannah rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: completey-awesome, cry-worthy, favorites, funny, hot-male-leads, life, loved-every-moment, realistic, romance, sad, sweet, teen-romance, teens, ya, another-love-triangle, covers-i-adore, authors-i-love, love-love-love, own

WOW.... I am speechless to how AMAZING this book is!

So at one am this morning I decided I couldn't sleep and decided to read a book to make me tired! I chose this one.... I didn't get to sleep until 5am, I refused to put it down!
It is pretty easy to say that I LOVE this book, well because I do :P The characters are amazing and Belly as the main protaganist is a likeable character. She is easy ro relate to as she is your somewhat typical teenaged girl:
-Has a crush on a guy that's "unattainabl...more

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Jun 29, 2010 Thomas rated it 4 of 5 stars

Every year, Belly craves for summer to come sooner. Summer is the time of year that brings her happiness and fulfillment. She looks forward to the beach house, the pool, the boardwalk - but more importantly, the people awaiting her. Her almost aunt Susannah, and the boys who are everything to her: Jeremiah and Conrad. This summer Jeremiah remains his usual self - cheerful, and Belly's bright best friend. Conrad, who Belly has crushed on ever since she was little, quit the football team and myste...more

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Apr 17, 2010 ~Tina~ rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: young-adult, read-2010, lib, contemporary

I don't usually read chick-lit, but I wanted to read something light.
To my surprise I didn't think I'd like this book as much as I did, but books are funny like that;)

Belly and her family always go to the beach to vacation since they were little, but this summer is different in all the ways it does when one grows up. Jealousy flares, hearts break and maybe when it's all over you'll find the right one for you.

The Summer I Turned Pretty was an enjoyable book about young love and all the confusio...more

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Mar 25, 2011 Tammara added it · review of another edition

Title and cover say Summer Beach Read -- but this novel delves so much deeper and unfolds into true coming-of-age genius. I fell in love with Belly, despite her nickname! The conflicting feelings she has for the brothers she sees every summer, and the love she develops for each of them -- oh, man. So well-done. I bought every word of it.

6 likes · like · see review

Dec 28, 2012 Brenda rated it 3 of 5 stars

“The Summer I Turned Pretty” is a very romantic and emotional book. It takes place during the summer, on Cousins Beach. Isabel, better known as Belly, has spent every summer at Cousins beach since she was born. She, her mother, and her brother Stephen go there to visit Susannah (her mother’s best friend), and her two sons: Conrad and Jeremiah. Stephen, Belly, Conrad, and Jeremiah have grown very close through the years. Conrad and Jeremiah treat Belly like a younger sister, even though Belly ha...more “The Summer I Turned Pretty” is a very romantic and emotional book. It takes place during the summer, on Cousins Beach. Isabel, better known as Belly, has spent every summer at Cousins beach since she was born. She, her mother, and her brother Stephen go there to visit Susannah (her mother’s best friend), and her two sons: Conrad and Jeremiah. Stephen, Belly, Conrad, and Jeremiah have grown very close through the years. Conrad and Jeremiah treat Belly like a younger sister, even though Belly has loved Conrad since she was ten years old. Conrad, Susannah’s eldest son, tends to keep all his emotions and feelings inside, rarely expressing them. He tends to drink quite a bit to “get away” from his problems. Jeremiah, on the other hand, is very playful and supportive, also being more expressive of his feelings.
When Belly and her family come to Cousins beach, she notices that Conrad and Jeremiah don’t treat her as a little girl like they used to; they notice she’s become a young woman. Belly still loves Conrad, but when he doesn’t seem to pay any attention to her, she meets a very studious boy named Cam. She goes on a few dates with him, trying to convince herself to get over Conrad. However, she knows that the real reason behind this is to make Conrad jealous and regret his decision. In the middle of that sticky situation, Jeremiah confesses his love for her, but Betty gently lets him know that she doesn’t think of him that way, that she still loves Conrad.
As the summer starts drawing to a close Belly looks forward to her 16th birthday. She decides not to tell Cam, wanting it to be just a family event. Susannah gives her a beautiful pearl necklace, and Jeremiah gives her a tiny silver key chain. Belly is deeply disappointed when Conrad forgets to get her a present, and becomes suspicious of the way he’s been acting lately.
A few days later, Conrad and Jeremiah get into a huge fight. Belly’s mom stops them, and immediately Belly knows there was some secret they kept from her. Belly’s mom takes her to her room and tells her the whole story. Belly was aware that Susannah was fighting breast cancer, but she always thought it went away and everything would be ok. However, her mom confirms the fact that it spread to her liver, and she probably won’t live much longer. The secret was kept from her because Susannah wanted this summer to be perfect. Belly is heartbroken, since Susannah is like a second mother to her. She regrets using Cam to try to make Conrad jealous. She finally understands why Conrad was acting so strange this summer.
She immediately ends the relationship with Cam and tries her very best to comfort the family. She cries with Jeremiah and Conrad, letting them know she’s there to support them. The summer finally ends, and Belly returns to Boston. However, for the first time, Conrad travels all night to visit her in the winter. Maybe there still could be something between them . . .
I enjoyed this book, but didn’t love it. I really liked the romance, but thought there were too many relationships going on at the same time. I hated how Belly would break multiple boys’ hearts. Why can’t she just make up her mind?! I was deeply moved when I found out about Susannah’s cancer. I loved those moments when Belly cried with Jeremiah or Conrad, trying to comfort each other.
I would only recommend this book to people who love romance stories. You would have to be prepared for drama and major disappointments at some sections of the book. Overall, it was a fairly good read, but I probably won’t read this book again.
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Dec 28, 2012 Annie rated it 5 of 5 stars

I love this book and this series. Belly is a great central character because she is easy to relate to, yet she has her own personality. She is strong and independent, yet weak at the knees when it comes to boys. Her relationships with Conrad and Jeremiah are really interesting. Conrad is that one boy she has always been in love with and Jeremiah is the good-spirited best friend that has always been there for her. I love the character Suzannah. While Belly's mom is a good character, Suzannah is a...more

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Nov 01, 2011 Noelle Antonio rated it 4 of 5 stars

Sarah Dessen was not kidding when she said that, “This book has what every girl wants in a summer.” Who seriously would not want to spend a glorious summer living in a house by the beach? That is what Belly has done every summer ever since she was 10 years old. She would spend every summer in the beach house in Cousin with her mom and her brother, Steven, her mother’s best friend and her two boys, Conrad and Jeremiah. This book goes out to all the teenage girls who have had or still has that hug...more

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Dec 13, 2012 ♥ Spring 22 rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: 2012, summer

The Summer I Turned Pretty (god, that is a long title. I'm just gonna call it SummerPretty from now on, kay? Kay.) is the perfect book to read while tanning on the edge of a pool in mid-June. I read it in January, but whatever. It made me feel like I was lying on the edge of a pool.

Belly (I do feel sorry for her being called Belly) is kind of immature but that's totally okay because she is young. And I can kind of relate to her, if only for the fact that we both measure our lives in summers. (W...more

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Jun 21, 2012 Kaede rated it 2 of 5 stars

Shelves: expected-more, whiny-unlikable-heroines, never-will-read-again, contemporary, could-have-been-better, series-gone-wrong, no-no-no-just-no, girl-is-too-in-love-to-do-shit, annoying-characters, made-my-eyes-bleed, pointless-crap, thanks-for-nothing

NO! NO! NO! NO! Jenny Han needs to recreate Belly and this time, she should be a little more like this:

The news hit me like a bullet to my heart. I couldn't believe it. When I finally dared to look up, in a very quiet voice I managed to say, "I hope your mom stays strong."

Rather than:

"I hope your mom doesn't lose a boob."

See the difference in maturity? Belly, I'm sorry to break it to you darling, but if you continue to act like you do, you will never be treated like an adult. Your whiny attitude...more

3 likes · like · see review

Jan 30, 2012 Maggie Mae rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Recommended to Maggie Mae by: Inês

Shelves: read-in-2012

Há muito tempo que não lia um livro tão adorável. Acho que somos um pouco enganados pela capa adorável e pela premissa que nos faz pensar na típica história de rapaz conhece rapariga, este livro é muito mais profundo que isso. Aborda sentimentos reprimidos, com os quais ninguém sabe o que fazer.
Não é difícil gostarmos da MC, ela é uma rapariga de 15 anos determinada, que está a tentar ultrapassar todos os obstáculos que aquela idade implica. Gostei da personalidade da Belly, houveram alturas em...more

3 likes · like · see review

May 06, 2012 Arushi rated it 1 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: wtf-is-this, young-adult, le-eyes-are-burning, translate-espanol-no-way-jose

This book made me want to cry tears of blood.

Belly, if someone is hurting and tells you to stop talking, you don’t just kiss them. Also, if you and your friend overhear about his mother’s breast cancer, you don’t think thoughts like ‘oh, I hope she doesn’t loose a boob’

No. Just, no.

My husband does not approve of you.

Low Points in this book:
Belly. Girl, this is for being whiny and obnoxious. Also, for being a bitch to your mother and thinking that she would never ever do anything for you and for...more

15 likes · like · see review

Jun 21, 2012 Maura rated it 2 of 5 stars

Shelves: read-in-2012

Let's start with the good.

GOOD: The writing style. Cousins Beach really came alive with the vivid descriptions; that was excellent. The only part of the writing style I didn't love was the flashbacks, and I'll touch on that more in the bad section.

For the most part, character-wise, I liked Jeremiah, Cam, and Belly. I'm not very much like Belly but I could understand what she was going through. Susannah I absolutely loved last time reading this book and this time around, I just felt so-so about h...more

4 likes · like · see review

May 15, 2011 Petra (Safari Poet) added it

Belly's happiest times are her summers at the beach house with her mother, brother, Conrad, Jeremiah and their mother, Susannah. The difference between previous summers and now is that (hint: the title) more than one boy is starting to take notice of her.

When you see the title or read the synopsis, it doesn't really hint that there is more to the story than a summer vacation involving an unrequited love. There is a lot going on in the background that's only revealed in the last few chapters. Tho...more

2 likes · like · see review

Apr 06, 2013 Lindsay Paige added it · review of another edition

Shelves: favorites, reviewed, own, re-read

Title Thoughts: I like it.

Cover Thoughts: I like it. Shows how she is in the middle of the brothers.

WARNINGS: Cussing every now and then. A few kisses here and there.

I opened this book because my best friend, who isn't a book addict like me, said, "Lindsay, you have to read this book. I've read it four times!" That is a lot for someone who likes a good read here and there. I opened this book expected a fantastic, addictive read and that is exactly what I got.

This book made me want to go to the b...more

1 like · like · see review

Dec 31, 2011 Carolina rated it 2 of 5 stars

So… I liked the plot, the idea and all that. You want to know the problem? Belly.

Yep, I didn’t like her. She was selfish, she knew she should sometimes say something different, be nice, and she would be a complete bitch.

And her friendship with Taylor? There was no friendship at all. Belly was too focused in being jealous or in being happy because Conrad didn’t give that much attention to Taylor. God, what kind of friend was her? I mean, Taylor wasn’t perfect either, but come on! If Belly was re...more

9 likes · like · see review

Apr 04, 2011 Victoria rated it 5 of 5 stars

Ah I’m still gushing about this book! I can’t believe I never picked it up before. The Summer I Turned Pretty is one of those books that after you’re done reading it you want to pick it up and re-read it because you’re not quite done being there in the story. If you haven’t read them and are planning to do so make sure you have the first and second book right away, third if it’s out by then! I don’t know if I could have survived without having the second one right away, which I’m currently gobbl...more Ah I’m still gushing about this book! I can’t believe I never picked it up before. The Summer I Turned Pretty is one of those books that after you’re done reading it you want to pick it up and re-read it because you’re not quite done being there in the story. If you haven’t read them and are planning to do so make sure you have the first and second book right away, third if it’s out by then! I don’t know if I could have survived without having the second one right away, which I’m currently gobbling up!

The Summer I Turned Pretty is about a young girl, Belly, who realizes that her summers will never be the same. Belly waits anxiously every year for summer to come knowing that she will spend it on Cousins Beach like she has her entire life. She doesn’t really live until she’s there, at the beach house, her home. Each summer of her childhood has been spent at Cousins beach with her mother and brother, Steven, and her mother’s friend Susannah and her boys, Jeremiah and Conrad. This summer is different than the others. Jeremiah and Conrad finally notice her. She’s no longer the little tattle-tale Belly she was but a pretty young woman, and the boys start eyeing her.

Throughout the book Belly takes us back to the beach house from years past. Each snippet containing something memorable and without it I feel the story would never be complete. I liked this aspect a lot because it should how her feelings for Jeremiah and Conrad started. It showed us how she felt left out, her first kiss, her first heartbreak, every little detail that completes the story.

There is a lot going on in each family. Belly’s parents recently got a divorce, which she doesn’t really understand because her father seemed so in love with her mother. Because of this Belly finds herself distancing from her parents. Jeremiah and Conrad also have issues to deal with, the fact that their mother is sick. Each one deals with it in their own way. Jeremiah seems the same, a little sadder maybe, and Conrad is distant and grumpy. And the lingering feeling that this summer is different is ever present because of these slight changes.

I really loved Belly’s character. I felt like I knew her, like she was some how a part of me. Maybe it’s because I had those tattle-tale days and grew up playing with my mom’s friend’s boys and always felt left out too. I really liked that she had a sarcastic, snappy attitude as well. And the boys, oh the boys! I absolutely ADORE Jeremiah and Conrad. They’re so different but so drool worthy. Jeremiah is sweet and funny and is always cracking jokes. Conrad is dark and mysterious, quiet and reserved. Each gorgeous and each caring for Belly deeply!

I LOVE LOVE LOVE this book and I know that will be the same for the next two in the trilogy! Jenny Han is Brilliant and I look forward to her future works. The Summer I Turned Pretty is beautifully written and undeniably addicting. Warning: if you pick up this book you will never be able to put it down. Also it will put you in the mood for summer, which I know need desperately! (less)

11 likes · like · see review

Aug 09, 2011 Monica rated it 4 of 5 stars

I have to say this book is definitely a solid four. It was really very good and I definitely want to get the next one in the series.

The characters I found very likable. Belly was pleasant and tried to be independent rather than just let the boys dictate what she did. Jeremiah and Conrad, while extremely different, both were great characters and you couldn't help but love them both, Belly sure did! (Especially Jeremiah!) Susannah has a hidden secret and because of this I find her to be a very str...more

2 likes · like · see review

Apr 12, 2011 Erin rated it 5 of 5 stars

Some books are read as an escape; moving readers into a fantastical world filled with mind boggling possibilities that exist outside the ordinary.

Some books are read for the mystery and intrigue; to work the case that no one else was brave enough to lead and to solve the whodunit in a way that stumps even the most skeptic critic.

Some books are read for love; to vicariously feel the unconditional and epic love that readers daydream of.

And then there are books that actually take you back in time,...more Some books are read as an escape; moving readers into a fantastical world filled with mind boggling possibilities that exist outside the ordinary.

Some books are read for the mystery and intrigue; to work the case that no one else was brave enough to lead and to solve the whodunit in a way that stumps even the most skeptic critic.

Some books are read for love; to vicariously feel the unconditional and epic love that readers daydream of.

And then there are books that actually take you back in time, back to a more innocent age where you never had to worry about bills, kids, or what to make for dinner.

The Summer I Turned Pretty held the last type for me... It transformed me back to a teenager, when my biggest problem was getting the boy of my dreams to notice me - which, trust me, meant the world to me some days... :o)

The book was voiced by 16 year old Belly. She's the baby and sole girl out of the four kids who vacation at a beach house each summer. The kids come from two family's whose mothers have been best friends since childhood. The four kids are split into two sets of siblings: Belly and Steven and Conrad and Jeremiah. Steven and Conrad, being so close in age, have always been close just as Belly and Jeremiah have.

Belly has loved Conrad since she was 10 (almost 1/2 her life!), but has never a) told him or b) gained his attention. But this summer? This summer is different... The four kids, who started out at the same point at the beginning of the summer (at the beach house) are starting to breakaway. Belly is growing up, starting to drive, and capturing the attention of boys, something she never thought possible. Steven is off scouting colleges with his dad. Conrad, who is 2 years older than Belly, will be going off to college come fall and has been so distant and grumpy that he's managed to isolate himself. Jeremiah is working as a lifeguard and trying hard to stay neutral around Belly's growing popularity with other boys and keep his feelings for her in check and secret.

One night changes everything... Events force secrets to be revealed and feelings to be exposed. When revelations start flying, where will they land and how will they impact all those around?

The language and even thoughts throughout the book was so inline with how I thought as a teenager (as selfish as can seem at times). Her infatuation with Conrad was palpable, and her relationship with her brother reminded me of my relationship with my brother around that same age. Was Belly bratty? Sure, she could be... As a little sister it was her duty! (We have a bad reputation for being spoiled, pouting, tattling brats, after all)

I loved the flashbacks and the sneak peeks into summers past. The flashbacks really added support to the current relationships and interactions.

Overall, I thought this book was outstanding - I loved the nostalgic feelings it gave me and I loved the tears it made me shed.(less)

9 likes · like · see review

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The (Not-So) Aust...: Summer I Turned Pretty - March Read Discussion	7	12	May 12, 2013 11:57pm
The Page Turners: Team Conrad or Team Jeremiah or Team Cameron	7	31	May 12, 2013 07:22am
The (Not-So) Aust...: The Summer I Turned Pretty	3	24	May 06, 2013 06:25pm
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What are some books similar to this? (Besides the other ones in the trilogy)	9	106	Apr 17, 2013 03:39pm

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