If you’ve completed “The Summer I Turned Pretty” (TSITP) and are now feeling a bit adrift without Belly, Conrad, Jeremiah, and the emotional whirlwind of Cousins Beach, you’re not alone. Many of us find ourselves replaying the soundtrack, browsing through edits, and silently deliberating Team Conrad versus Team Jeremiah repeatedly.
But fear not, the journey doesn’t end here. There are numerous shows and movies out there that capture the same essence that drew us into TSITP. So, consider this a guide from one fan to another on what to watch next. Each recommendation offers a taste of TSITP, be it the romance, the setting, or the emotional rollercoaster we all secretly crave.
‘My Life with the Walter Boys’
Following a tragic loss, Jackie Howard relocates from New York City to rural Colorado to reside with her new guardians, the Walters, and their bustling household of eleven children, mostly boys. What initially appears as a daunting adjustment swiftly transforms into a whirlwind of sibling dynamics, first loves, and the inevitable romantic entanglement between Alex, the dependable boy-next-door, and Cole, the charming heartbreaker. The appeal of this show to TSITP enthusiasts lies in its blend of heartwarming family moments with heart-fluttering romance. Jackie, akin to Belly, finds herself torn between two divergent paths while grappling with grief and self-discovery. It’s a messy, heartwarming, and captivating series where you’ll take sides and defend them passionately in group discussions. If TSITP has left you yearning for more drama infused with summer vibes, “Walter Boys” serves up that same mix with a twist set in a mountain town.
‘Outer Banks’
While TSITP revolves around sun-soaked coming-of-age love, “Outer Banks” injects a thrilling treasure-hunting element. Based along the North Carolina coast, the series tracks John B and his crew of friends, the working-class Pogues, as they pursue hidden riches while clashing with the affluent Kooks. Romance ignites between John B and Sarah Cameron, a love fraught with class barriers. Fans of TSITP will resonate with the conflicts between loyalty, love, and identity, as well as the vibrant beach-town ambiance that brings summer to life on screen. However, “Outer Banks” raises the stakes with adrenaline-pumping pursuits, perilous secrets, and life-or-death dilemmas. While it ventures into wilder and grittier territory compared to Jenny Han’s creation, it scratches the same itch for heartfelt romance intertwined with complex decisions. Picture TSITP with a treasure map and a healthy dose of danger, and you’ll find the addictive pandemonium of Outer Banks.
‘XO, Kitty’
Straight from Jenny Han herself comes “XO, Kitty,” a spinoff within her “To All the Boys” universe. Though not set on a beach, it retains the charm that made TSITP so endearing: a teenage girl caught between first loves, cultural exploration, and self-realization. Kitty Covey embarks on a journey to Korea to reunite with her long-distance boyfriend, only to find herself entangled in new crushes, unexpected friendships, and plenty of chaos. Similar to Belly, Kitty is lovably flawed and navigating life’s twists and turns, making her highly relatable. The series exudes a lighter and more playful rom-com vibe compared to TSITP but delves into themes of identity and acceptance. Fans of Jenny Han’s talent for crafting heartfelt characters will find this spinoff irresistible. If TSITP was your go-to summer escape, “XO, Kitty” offers an international adventure that will warm your heart.
‘Dawson’s Creek’
Before Belly’s dilemma between Conrad and Jeremiah, there was Joey Potter caught between Dawson Leery and Pacey Witter. “Dawson’s Creek” remains a timeless teen drama set in a tranquil coastal town where friendships evolve, heartaches sting, and the journey to adulthood feels overwhelmingly intricate. Its unflinching portrayal of first love, mirroring Belly’s emotional turmoil between comfort and passion, makes it a must-watch for TSITP enthusiasts. The show’s dialogue remains sharp, reminiscent of the poignant exchanges in teen television. Witnessing Joey rowing her boat across the creek to Dawson’s window evokes the same nostalgia as Belly’s moments at Cousins Beach. For those yearning for a classic, “Dawson’s Creek” offers a slow-burning emotional voyage that laid the foundation for subsequent teen dramas. It’s heartfelt, angsty, and perfect for late-night marathons.
‘Never Have I Ever’
While Belly’s tale revolves around summer love, Devi Vishwakumar’s journey in “Never Have I Ever” delves into the chaos of growing up, and it’s a delightful chaos at that. Mindy Kaling’s teen dramedy seamlessly blends humor
