“The Summer I Turned Pretty” isn’t just another teen drama. It’s a reflection of those fleeting moments of youth, where every emotion is heightened, and every summer feels like an eternity.
Based on Jenny Han’s bestselling novels, this series captures the essence of summer love, heartbreak, and the complexities of teenage relationships.
But what if you’ve already binged it and are craving something similar? Well, let’s dive into some recommendations that’ll give you those same butterflies.
Don’t Miss: Where Was “The Summer I Turned Pretty” Filmed? Here’s The Full List!!
Why We Love The Summer I Turned Pretty?
Before we dive into similar movies and shows, let’s take a moment to appreciate the charm of “The Summer I Turned Pretty”.
The series, set against the backdrop of sun-kissed beaches and late-night bonfires, encapsulates the whirlwind of first loves, the pain of first heartbreaks, and the joy of everlasting friendships. It’s a series that reminds us of our own summers, filled with possibilities and adventures.
Table of Contents
1. Outer Banks
A Treasure Hunt with a Twist
Imagine a summer filled with treasure hunts, conspiracies, and, of course, romance. That’s “Outer Banks” for you. Set in a picturesque beachside town, this Netflix drama is more than just teen love; it’s an adventure waiting to be explored.
The series revolves around a group of teenagers who stumble upon a treasure map that unearths a long-hidden secret.
Why It Resonates with Fans of The Summer I Turned Pretty
Both series, while distinct in their plots, capture the essence of summer adventures. They’re about friendships tested by time, love, and circumstances.
The beach setting, the sunsets, and the allure of a summer romance make “Outer Banks” a worthy successor to “The Summer I Turned Pretty”.
2. XO, Kitty
A Spinoff Worth Watching
From the universe of Jenny Han, “XO, Kitty” takes us on a journey with Kitty, Lara Jean’s younger sister, as she embarks on her own love adventures in Seoul. With love triangles, friendships, and a touch of drama, it’s a must-watch for “The Summer I Turned Pretty” fans.
Why It’s A Must-Watch
“XO, Kitty” is not just a spinoff; it’s a fresh take on love, relationships, and growing up. Set against the vibrant backdrop of Seoul, the series offers a blend of romance, comedy, and drama.
It’s a testament to Jenny Han’s ability to craft relatable characters and stories that resonate with audiences worldwide.
3. Dawson’s Creek
The Classic Teen Drama
Before the era of social media and streaming giants, there was “Dawson’s Creek”. Set in the fictional town of Capeside, Massachusetts, this series follows the lives of Dawson Leery and his close-knit group of friends as they navigate the challenges of adolescence.
From first loves to heartbreaks, from dreams to disillusionments, “Dawson’s Creek” captures the essence of teenage life in all its glory and complexity.
Why It’s Timeless
“Dawson’s Creek” isn’t just a show; it’s a cultural phenomenon. With its iconic dialogues, memorable characters, and a soundtrack that defined a generation, it remains etched in the hearts of many.
For fans of “The Summer I Turned Pretty”, “Dawson’s Creek” offers a nostalgic trip down memory lane, reminding us of simpler times when life’s biggest dilemmas were choosing between two crushes or figuring out one’s future.
4. Looking for Alaska
A Deep Dive into Teen Emotions
Based on John Green’s award-winning novel, “Looking for Alaska” is a poignant tale of love, loss, and the quest for meaning. Set in an Alabama boarding school, the story revolves around Miles “Pudge” Halter and his infatuation with the enigmatic Alaska Young.
As the narrative unfolds, it delves deep into the complexities of teenage emotions, friendships, and the inevitable tragedies of growing up.
Why It Resonates
Much like “The Summer I Turned Pretty”, “Looking for Alaska” is not just about teenage romance. It’s about the profound moments that define our youth, the friendships that shape us, and the memories that stay with us forever.
It’s a series that speaks to the soul, making us reflect on our own journeys and the people who’ve left an indelible mark on our lives.
5. Never Have I Ever
A Cultural Coming-of-Age
Co-created by Mindy Kaling, “Never Have I Ever” offers a fresh perspective on the classic coming-of-age narrative. Through the eyes of Devi Vishwakumar, a first-generation Indian-American teenager, the series explores themes of identity, culture, and the universal challenges of adolescence.
From dealing with the loss of a parent to navigating high school hierarchies, Devi’s journey is both relatable and uniquely her own.
Why It’s A Must-Watch
“Never Have I Ever” is a celebration of diversity, a testament to the myriad experiences that define the teenage years. For fans of “The Summer I Turned Pretty”, this series offers a blend of humor, heart, and cultural insights, making it a delightful watch.
6. Ginny & Georgia
A Tale of Two Generations
At the heart of “Ginny & Georgia” is the intricate relationship between a mother and daughter. While Ginny navigates the treacherous waters of high school, her young mother, Georgia, grapples with secrets from her past.
Set in a quaint New England town, this series is a blend of humor, drama, and mystery, offering a fresh take on the coming-of-age narrative.
Why It’s Worth the Watch
For fans of “The Summer I Turned Pretty”, “Ginny & Georgia” offers a dual perspective – the teenage angst of Ginny juxtaposed with Georgia’s struggles as a young mother. It’s a series that delves deep into family dynamics, relationships, and the lengths one would go to protect loved ones.
7. Love, Victor
Embracing One’s Truth
Set in the world of the 2018 film “Love, Simon”, “Love, Victor” follows Victor Salazar, a new student at Creekwood High, as he embarks on his own journey of self-discovery. As Victor grapples with his sexuality, he finds solace in Simon, who offers guidance and support through their online correspondence.
Why It Strikes a Chord
“Love, Victor” is more than just a teen drama; it’s a heartfelt exploration of identity, acceptance, and love. For those who cherished “The Summer I Turned Pretty”, this series offers a poignant look at the challenges and triumphs of coming out, reminding us of the power of authenticity and self-acceptance.
8. Dickinson
A Historical Yet Modern Tale
“Dickinson” is a unique blend of historical drama and modern sensibilities. Set in the 19th century, the series offers a fictionalized account of the life of American poet Emily Dickinson. With its anachronistic elements, contemporary music, and witty dialogues, “Dickinson” is a delightful reimagining of the past.
Why It’s A Breath of Fresh Air
While “The Summer I Turned Pretty” captures the essence of contemporary youth, “Dickinson” transports us to a different era, yet with themes that resonate today. It’s about ambition, love, and the quest for recognition, making it a must-watch for those who appreciate a touch of history with their drama.
| Show/Movie | Brief Description | Platform |
|---|---|---|
| Outer Banks | A treasure hunt intertwined with romance and conspiracies | Netflix |
| XO, Kitty | Kitty’s love adventures in Seoul, set in the universe of Jenny Han | Netflix |
| Dawson’s Creek | A classic portrayal of first loves, friendships, and growing up | Hulu |
| Looking for Alaska | A poignant exploration of teenage emotions, friendships, and tragedies | Hulu |
| Never Have I Ever | A cultural coming-of-age story of an Indian-American teenager | Netflix |
| Ginny & Georgia | A tale of a mother-daughter duo navigating life’s challenges | Netflix |
| Love, Victor | A journey of self-discovery and acceptance in the world of “Love, Simon” | Hulu |
| Dickinson | A modern reimagining of the life of poet Emily Dickinson | Apple TV+ |
Whether set against sun-kissed beaches or historical backdrops, teen dramas have an undeniable allure. They capture the essence of youth – a time of exploration, self-discovery, and intense emotions.
From “The Summer I Turned Pretty” to “Dickinson”, these shows offer a window into the joys and challenges of growing up, reminding us of our own journeys and the stories that shaped us.
So, as the credits roll and the screen fades, we’re left with a sense of nostalgia, a yearning for days gone by, and a heartfelt appreciation for the tales that resonate across generations.
