The Summer I Turned Pretty audiobook – Summer, Book 1

On a warm summer afternoon, lounging in my backyard hammock, I immersed myself in the world of The Summer I Turned Pretty audiobook by Jenny Han. The gentle breeze rustling through the trees and the distant sound of children playing added to the nostalgic atmosphere of this coming-of-age tale.

The story revolves around Belly, a girl who measures her life in summers. Each year, from June to August, she experiences moments of magic and growth. Jenny Han’s writing beautifully captures the essence of those carefree days filled with endless possibilities. As a reader in my thirties, I found myself transported back to my own teenage years, reminiscing about first loves and unforgettable summers.

However, while the story itself was captivating, I couldn’t fully enjoy it due to the narration by Lola Tung. Her performance was inconsistent and distracting at times. Weird vocal gestures and awkward laughter took away from the emotional depth of certain scenes. It’s unfortunate because this book deserves a narrator who can truly bring its characters and their journeys to life.

Despite this setback, The Summer I Turned Pretty remains a heartfelt novel that will make you laugh, cry, and feel everything in between. It explores themes of friendship, love, and self-discovery with honesty and authenticity. If you’re looking for a nostalgic trip down memory lane or simply want to experience the joys and challenges of growing up during summertime, this audiobook is worth a listen.