The Summer I Turned Pretty
#1 in Summer Series
on Goodreads (38,194)
What’s inside...
The story focuses on a girl named Belly as she spends her summers at a beach house with her mother's best friend and her sons, Conrad and Jeremiah. Over the years, Belly develops feelings for Conrad and their relationship turns from friendship to something deeper. The novel explores themes of young love, heartbreak, and the complexities of growing up. Belly has always lived for the summertime, because summer means all her favorite things: swimming, the beach, and the Fisher boys, Conrad and Jeremiah. For as long as she can remember, she’s shared her summers with the brothers at Cousins Beach. And for as long as she can remember, she’s been in love with Conrad. Then one summer it seems like he might have feelings for her too—but so does Jeremiah. This Mass market paperback book set includes: The Summer I Turned Pretty, It’s Not Summer Without You, We’ll Always Have Summer.
Character compass
Isabel "Belly" Conklin
Conrad Fisher
Jeremiah Fisher
Cam Cameron
Taylor Jewel
Steven Conklin
Susannah Fisher
Laurel Conklin
Discussion points
How do you think Belly felt about the changes occurring in her life during the summer?
What can we learn from the way Belly handles her relationships with Conrad and Jeremiah?
In what ways do the family dynamics in the story reflect or differ from our own family experiences?
Why is the summer setting important to the story, and how does it affect the characters?
How do the characters' experiences with love and friendship help them grow?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their feelings about Belly’s experiences and relate them to their personal life.
Discuss the importance of relationships and how they help shape who we are, just like in Belly's life.
Help your child understand the significance of family traditions and memories through the lens of the book’s summer setting.
Explore the theme of growing up and how it is portrayed in the book, prompting your child to share their thoughts about growing up.
Ask your child to think about the different characters’ perspectives and what they might learn from each.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Understanding the complexities of relationships
Explanation: The protagonist navigates various interpersonal relationships, providing insight into managing friendships and family dynamics.
Real-World Application: Children can use these insights to enhance their emotional intelligence and relationship management skills.
Example Lesson: The importance of self-discovery
Explanation: Throughout the story, the main character goes through a journey of self-discovery, learning about her personal desires and goals.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to explore their own interests and aspirations, aiding their personal growth and self-esteem.
Example Lesson: Dealing with change
Explanation: As the protagonist experiences changes in her life and relationships, the story illustrates how to adapt and embrace new circumstances.
Real-World Application: This can help children understand that change is a natural part of life and learn to approach it with resilience.