TL;DR
Belly’s life is intertwined with Conrad and Jeremiah Fisher, two brothers she’s known since childhood. As she navigates the complexities of love, loss, and friendship, Belly finds herself caught in a love triangle, grappling with her feelings for both brothers. The idyllic summers at Cousins Beach are overshadowed by Susannah’s declining health, creating a sense of urgency and uncertainty for Belly and the Fisher boys.
Table of contents
Open Table of contents
Author & Writing Background
Jenny Han is a bestselling American author known for her young adult novels. She has a knack for capturing the essence of adolescence and exploring themes of love, friendship, and self-discovery. Her writing style is characterized by its emotional depth, relatable characters, and evocative descriptions. Han’s other notable works include the “To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before” series, which was adapted into a successful Netflix film.
Key Takeaways
Love Triangle
Belly is torn between her feelings for Conrad and Jeremiah, creating a complex and emotionally charged love triangle that drives much of the plot.
Loss and Grief
Susannah’s battle with cancer and her eventual death cast a shadow over the story, forcing the characters to confront grief, loss, and the fragility of life.
Coming-of-Age
Belly experiences significant personal growth throughout the novel as she navigates love, loss, and the challenges of transitioning into adulthood.
Friendship
The bonds of friendship, particularly between Belly and Taylor, provide support and a sense of stability amidst the emotional turmoil.
Family Relationships
The complex dynamics within the Fisher family and Belly’s own family are explored, highlighting the importance of family ties and the challenges they can present.
Summer Nostalgia
The idyllic setting of Cousins Beach evokes a sense of nostalgia and the bittersweet nature of summer memories.
First Love
Belly’s experiences with first love are depicted with honesty and sensitivity, capturing the intensity and confusion of teenage emotions.
Self-Discovery
Through her experiences, Belly gains a deeper understanding of herself, her values, and her desires for the future.
FAQ about Summer I Turned Pretty
Is this book part of a series?
Yes, “It’s Not Summer Without You” is the second book in the “Summer I Turned Pretty” trilogy.
Is this book suitable for younger readers?
The book deals with mature themes such as love, loss, and grief, so it may be more appropriate for older teenagers and young adults.
Summer I Turned Pretty Quotes
- “I must have wished for you so hard and so often that you had no choice but to come true.”
- “Grief was like the ocean; it was deep and dark and bigger than all of us. And it was always there, waiting for us to step into it.”
- “It’s not summer without you,” he says. And then he says, “Please come back.”