The summer I turned pretty, also referred to as TSITP, is a popular TV show that is based on the book series written by Jenny Han. In the first season, we are introduced to the main character, Belly, who is sixteen years old and spending her summer with her mom, older brother, and Belly’s mom’s best friend, Susannah and her two sons, Conrad and Jeremiah at Cousins Beach.
Every year she goes to Cousins’ beach, but this year Belly notices things feel different. We are also introduced to a love triangle as Belly navigates the crush she’s always had on Conrad, and the unexpected feelings that arise for Jeremiah. The season is centered around the debutante ball that Belly is participating in, where she will be surrounded by new and unfamiliar experiences. Susannah’s cancer diagnosis begins to become a conflict that family and friends will have to work through. The season concludes with Belly and Conrad coming together, while Susannah agrees to undergo treatment.
Conrad and Belly
In season 2 (Spoiler alert) released in July 2023, it begins without Susannah, who loses her battle with cancer. Conrad grieves heavily over the loss of his mother, Jeremiah struggles to support his brother, and Belly is dealing with much heartbreak over a breakup with Conrad and losing Susannah. The family beach house has now become filled with conflict when Susannah’s sister tries to sell it. Belly, Jeremiah, and Conrad all fight to keep the house. Belly finds herself having more intense feelings for Jeremiah through all of this, and by the end of the season she chooses Jeremiah.
Released in July 2025, the third and most recent season faces more mature problems as Belly and Jeremiah are both in college and dating. Jeremiah proposes to Belly, and as they plan their wedding Conrad reenters her life as he confesses his love for her never left. Throughout the season Belly is torn between Jeremiah and Conrad. The final episode that will be aired on September 17th, 2025 and will bring her to a decision that defines not just her love life, but also who she will grow to be as an adult.
Why are teens so drawn to TSITP? Is it the universal story of a love triangle, the somewhat dreamy idea of a summer get away where fun and romance abound or is it the idea that all of us hope for that magic moment when we feel good about ourselves? Whatever its draw, the show is a teen pleaser on Amazon Prime. The series includes romance, conflict, and dreamy fun all at once. If you haven’t tuned in maybe you should give it a try since our summer vacation is over. Want to plan a trip to Cousins beach anyone?
