The Epic Transformations: Unveiling the Unparalleled Differences Between ‘The Summer I Turned Pretty’ TV Show and Book Series

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Making its debut on Prime Video, The Summer I Turned Pretty created waves. However, how does the TV adaptation measure up to the original book series?

Premiering in July 2022, the TV show takes inspiration from Jenny Han's book series of the same title. The Summer I Turned Pretty delves into the complex relationships of Belly Conklin (played by Lola Tung) with her childhood friends Conrad Fisher (Christopher Briney) and Jeremiah Fisher (Gavin Casalegno). As she delves into her emotions for each of them, the dynamics of their bond undergo a transformation.

Han, the creator and showrunner of The Summer I Turned Pretty series, surprised fans by suggesting that her original vision for the story might undergo changes on screen.

In an interview with Variety in June 2022, Han explained, "I had to carefully consider the fans' expectations and strike a balance with the show's creative direction. My priority has always been to ensure that fans of the book feel fulfilled by the story we're presenting, while acknowledging that this adaptation in a new medium won't be an exact replica. These thoughts constantly occupy my mind. I don't want to reveal too much, but with the books being out for a while, anything could happen with the show. I approached it with an open mind and considered various possibilities."

Casalegno expressed his endorsement for a reimagining of the central love triangle's resolution. In an exclusive interview with We in June 2023, the actor shared his belief that there is a strong likelihood of diverging from the original events as depicted in the books. He acknowledged that he is aware of his character Jeremiah's ultimate fate but emphasized that he doesn't dwell on it. Instead, he trusts in Jenny's skillful writing to naturally guide the storyline without any need for artificial direction.

Scroll on to see the main differences which had taken place on the show compared to the books so far:

Credit: Erika Doss/Prime Video

Breaking Down the Biggest Differences Between ‘The Summer I Turned Pretty’ TV Show and Book Series

How does the TV adaptation of The Summer I Turned Pretty compare to the original book series? Premiering on Prime Video in July 2022, the TV show, based on Jenny Han's book series, delves into Belly Conklin's (Lola Tung) relationships with her childhood friends Conrad Fisher (Christopher Briney) and Jeremiah Fisher (Gavin Casalegno), exploring how their bond evolves as she navigates her feelings for both of them.

Han, the creator and showrunner of The Summer I Turned Pretty series, surprised fans with the revelation that her initial vision for the story might undergo changes in its on-screen adaptation. In an interview with Variety in June 2022, she expressed the importance of striking a balance between meeting fan expectations and pursuing creative development. Han emphasized her desire to satisfy book fans with the narrative while acknowledging the inevitable differences that arise when transitioning to a new medium. She maintained a mindset open to various possibilities and carefully weighed different outcomes without revealing too much, considering that the books have been available for some time.

Casalegno expressed his endorsement for a revision of the central love triangle's resolution. "I believe there is a significant likelihood of that happening," the actor revealed exclusively to We in June 2023 regarding the possibility of the beloved series deviating from the original plot in the books. "Although I am aware of where [my character Jeremiah] ultimately ends up and what unfolds, I don't fixate on that. Jenny's writing is so adept that I can naturally arrive at the outcome without feeling compelled to steer it in a specific direction."

Scroll on to see the main differences which had taken place on the show compared to the books so far:

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The Debutante Ball

During season 1, Rachel Blanchard's character, Susannah, persuades Belly to participate in the debutante ball held at Cousins Beach's country club. This elegant affair not only serves as the backdrop for the season finale but also acts as a catalyst for Belly and Conrad's deepening connection, a result of their gradual bonding over several months. Interestingly, the book series does not feature any mention of the prestigious ball.

Credit: Erika Doss/Prime Video

Taking a Trip Down Memory Lane

The Prime Video series doesn't utilize flashbacks as often as The Summer I Turned Pretty book would when it came to Belly's childhood.  

Credit: Erika Doss/Prime Video

Jeremiah's Sexuality

The youngest Fisher brother exclusively expressed interest in girls throughout the three books. However, on screen, Jeremiah has openly discussed his fluid sexuality and has engaged in flirting with different guys during the first season.

"I find it fascinating that Jenny acknowledges and embraces these topics. She truly makes an effort to bring the contemporary world into the series," Casalegno stated exclusively to Us in June 2023. "This is heartwarming because I believe more individuals can identify with the character."

Credit: Erika Doss/Prime Video

The Iconic Infinity Necklace

In the initial season of the series, The Summer I Turned Pretty, there is a deliberate emphasis on the significance of Conrad's present to Belly on her 16th birthday. At first, he denies getting her anything, but subsequently, she discovers the necklace — an item that will maintain its pivotal importance in the upcoming seasons.

The books, however, didn't mention the jewelry until the sequel, It's Not Summer Without You.

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Incorporating Taylor More in the Series

Originally, in the first book, Belly's best friend Taylor (Rain Spencer) is only mentioned through flashbacks. However, in the series adaptation, there is more exploration of Belly and Taylor's friendship, as Taylor visits Cousins Beach. Although there is a brief falling out between the two when Taylor kisses Belly's brother Steven (Sean Kaufman), they manage to resolve their differences before the end of season 1. It is important to note that Taylor and Steven's connection is another addition made exclusively for the onscreen adaptation and was not present in the original books.

Credit: Erika Doss/Prime Video

Steven's Role Within the Series

Belly's brother played a relatively minor role in the book series, but his significance increased significantly in the adaptation for Prime Video. Steven becomes central to the plot in season 1 as he embarks on a romantic pursuit of Shayla (Minnie Mills), despite the stark difference in their financial backgrounds.

In the first book, Steven doesn't stay at Cousins for the whole summer because he is busy looking at potential colleges. 

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Susannah's Cancer

In The Summer I Turned Pretty, the narrative revolves around the connection between the Conklins and the Fishers. While Susannah's cancer is not a hidden secret amongst the families in the book series, the TV show takes a different approach. Initially, only Laurel (played by Jackie Chung) is aware of her best friend's health struggle, until Conrad accidentally stumbles upon the information and keeps it to himself.

During season 1, Susannah is ultimately compelled to reveal her condition to everyone after Jeremiah uncovers emails regarding possible treatments.

Credit: Erika Doss/Prime Video

Belly's Season 1 Choice

Following Susannah's disclosure about her battle with cancer, Belly and Conrad appear to enter into a romantic relationship as season 1 draws to a close. In a pivotal moment, Conrad opens up to Belly about his true emotions, paving the way for the resolution of the intricate love triangle.

The outcome of the events in the books leaves the Belly and Conrad versus Belly and Jeremiah debate uncertain. While Belly shares a kiss with her crush by the end of the first novel, it is ambiguous if they will end up together due to Conrad interfering with a potential romance between them.