Discover the Hidden Connection: Untangling the Shared Universe of 'The Summer I Turned Pretty' and 'To All The Boys'

Summary

The books and movies from "The Summer I Turned Pretty" and "To All The Boys I've Loved Before" may not exist in the same universe due to differences in tone and themes.

The two series share a connection through the inclusion of the book "The Summer I Turned Pretty" in the "To All The Boys" series, serving as an Easter egg. Although a crossover is not currently in the works, future projects could explore the possibility of bringing the characters together, especially considering the potential for them to meet at Stanford University.

Speculation arises about the possibility of The Summer I Turned Pretty and To All The Boys I've Loved Before existing in the same universe due to their popularity and shared author. Jenny Han, the accomplished author, plays a vital role in ensuring a seamless transition of her characters from page to screen in both series. Insight from individuals involved with the franchises further discusses the potential for crossovers and the migration of characters between the completed To All The Boys I've Loved Before movies and Cousins Beach.

The Summer I Turned Pretty & To All The Boys Don't Share A Universe

The idea of The Summer I Turned Pretty and To All The Boys I've Loved Before existing in the same cinematic universe has been discredited. Han explained to W Magazine that for her, Lara Jean's story takes place in a more fantastical world, while Belly's story is rooted in reality. This distinction is logical as Lara Jean experiences a more whimsical reality, whereas Belly is confronted with some of life's toughest moments. It seems that the contrasting tones between the two narratives is the reason why they remain separate.

The Summer I Turned Pretty Easter Egg In To All The Boys Explained

The third and final novel, Always and Forever, Lara Jean, reveals a surprise connection between the To All The Boys I've Loved Before series and The Summer I Turned Pretty. In both the book and movie adaptations, a copy of The Summer I Turned Pretty makes an appearance. Interestingly, this book is actually Jenny Han's personal copy. Han shared that she included it because she believes it reflects Lara Jean's reading preferences. While the two sets of characters may not coexist in the same universe, The Summer I Turned Pretty holds a special place in Lara Jean's world.

What A The Summer I Turned Pretty & To All The Boys Crossover Could Look Like

While there is no established shared universe, there is a possibility for future projects to intertwine. In The Summer I Turned Pretty, Conrad's late mother, Susannah, expressed her belief that he would thrive at Stanford University in California. Following her passing, he decides to apply for a transfer from Brown University and ultimately chooses to attend Stanford in the thrilling season 2 finale of The Summer I Turned Pretty. Similarly, Peter Kavinsky, the love interest of Lara Jean, also ends up at Stanford in the conclusion of To All The Boys: Always and Forever.

Although it would require some revision, this presents an ideal opportunity for the two series to intersect, with the boys coincidentally encountering each other while attending the same school. Given Peter's slight age advantage over Conrad, he could act as a mentor figure, guiding Conrad through his emotions towards Belly and the challenges of transitioning to a new school. Furthermore, this scenario could pave the way for other beloved characters from To All The Boys I've Loved Before to enter the narrative as they visit Peter, getting acquainted with Conrad and gradually connecting with the rest of The Summer I Turned Pretty group.

Sources: W Magazine, Refinery 29