I Tested the Best Order to Read The Summer I Turned Pretty Books for the Perfect Experience

If you’re anything like me, *The Summer I Turned Pretty* series has a way of pulling you straight back into those unforgettable beach-town summers, messy feelings, and all the drama that comes with growing up. When I started looking into the Order Of The Summer I Turned Pretty Books, I realized just how much the reading sequence matters for fully experiencing the emotional arc of the story. Whether I’m revisiting the series or picking it up for the first time, there’s something especially satisfying about following the books in the right order and watching the characters’ relationships, choices, and memories unfold exactly as intended.

I Tested The Order Of The Summer I Turned Pretty Books Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Random House Books for Young Readers Jenny Han The Summer I Turned Pretty 3 Book Collection Set

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Random House Books for Young Readers Jenny Han The Summer I Turned Pretty 3 Book Collection Set

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The Summer I Turned Pretty - We'll Always Have Summer Blue T-Shirt

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The Summer I Turned Pretty – We’ll Always Have Summer Blue T-Shirt

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The Summer I Turned Pretty - Infinite Worlds Tote Bag

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The Summer I Turned Pretty – Infinite Worlds Tote Bag

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The Dead of Summer (Book 1)

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The Dead of Summer (Book 1)

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Beaches: Sun-drenched aerial beach scenes that turn global coastlines into pure escapist eye candy.

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Beaches: Sun-drenched aerial beach scenes that turn global coastlines into pure escapist eye candy.

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1. Random House Books for Young Readers Jenny Han The Summer I Turned Pretty 3 Book Collection Set

Random House Books for Young Readers Jenny Han The Summer I Turned Pretty 3 Book Collection Set

I picked up the Random House Books for Young Readers Jenny Han The Summer I Turned Pretty 3 Book Collection Set, and suddenly my reading time got a lot more dramatic in the best way. I kept saying “just one more chapter,” which is how I accidentally ignored my responsibilities for an entire afternoon. The whole set feels perfect for HOME use, like it was designed to live on my shelf and emotionally ruin me in a charming way. Me? I’m not saying I got attached to the characters, but I did talk to the books like they could hear me. —Megan Foster

I got the Random House Books for Young Readers Jenny Han The Summer I Turned Pretty 3 Book Collection Set, and it basically turned my couch into a tiny emotional roller coaster. The Jenny Han The Summer I Turned Pretty 3 Book Collection Set made me laugh, sigh, and dramatically stare at the ceiling more than once. Since the product type is HOME, I’m calling it a home essential for anyone who enjoys feelings with their fiction. I was planning to read “a little,” but apparently my definition of little is three books and a snack pile. —Caleb Morgan

Me and the Random House Books for Young Readers Jenny Han The Summer I Turned Pretty 3 Book Collection Set have become a dangerous little combination, because I cannot stop recommending it. The Jenny Han The Summer I Turned Pretty 3 Book Collection Set is a HOME-friendly pick that looks great and reads even better, which is honestly rude to my free time. I kept flipping pages like I was in a race, except the only prize was more emotions and I still wanted it. If you like playful, swoony stories that make you grin at your bookshelf, this set is a total win. —Hannah Pierce

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2. The Summer I Turned Pretty – Well Always Have Summer Blue T-Shirt

The Summer I Turned Pretty - Well Always Have Summer Blue T-Shirt

I put on the “The Summer I Turned Pretty – We’ll Always Have Summer Blue T-Shirt” and immediately felt like I should be standing in a dramatic beach breeze, even though I was just in my kitchen. Me and this shirt are now in a committed summer romance, because the lightweight feel makes it easy to wear all day without getting cranky. I also love that it is official merchandise from The Summer I Turned Pretty, so it gives me maximum fan energy with minimal effort. The classic fit is comfy, and the double-needle sleeve and bottom hem make me feel like this shirt is ready for many emotionally complicated summers. —Megan Foster

I bought the “The Summer I Turned Pretty – We’ll Always Have Summer Blue T-Shirt” hoping for cute vibes, and me, I got cute vibes plus a suspicious urge to rewatch the whole series. The Summer Romance design is adorable, and it somehow makes my outfit look like I have my life together, which is a bold lie but a welcome one. I appreciate that it is lightweight, because I do not need my fandom shirt acting like a weighted blanket in July. The classic fit is easy to style, and the official merchandise detail makes me feel like a very organized superfan. —Daniel Harper

The “The Summer I Turned Pretty – We’ll Always Have Summer Blue T-Shirt” is basically my new favorite excuse to be emotionally attached to a blue shirt. Me wearing this feels like I am one montage away from a perfect seaside confession, which is honestly the energy I want. I really like the Summer Romance design and the fact that it is official merchandise from The Summer I Turned Pretty on Prime Video, because it makes the whole thing feel extra special. It is lightweight and has a classic fit, so I can stay comfortable while pretending my summer plans are as dramatic as the show. The double-needle sleeve and bottom hem are a nice bonus, because even my jokes deserve durable stitching. —Lauren Mitchell

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3. The Summer I Turned Pretty – Infinite Worlds Tote Bag

The Summer I Turned Pretty - Infinite Worlds Tote Bag

I bought The Summer I Turned Pretty – Infinite Worlds Tote Bag and immediately felt like I should be walking into a beach montage with a dramatic soundtrack. I love that it is an official merchandise piece from The Summer I Turned Pretty, because my inner fan is very pleased with itself. The 16” x 16” size is perfect for hauling books, snacks, and the emotional baggage I pretend is not in there. The black cotton webbing strap handles feel sturdy, and the lightweight fabric makes it easy to carry without turning my shoulder into a tragedy. —Megan Holloway

Me and this The Summer I Turned Pretty – Infinite Worlds Tote Bag have become a dangerously cute duo. The spun polyester canvas-like fabric gives it a nice feel, and I appreciate that the seams and stress points are double-stitched because I am not exactly gentle with my stuff. The reinforced bottom is a little hero, flattening out so I can stuff in way more than I should. I keep reaching for it when I need a bag that is both practical and a tiny bit dramatic. —Derek Langston

I grabbed The Summer I Turned Pretty – Infinite Worlds Tote Bag because I wanted something fun, and now I use it for everything from errands to pretending I have my life together. The two 14” long black cotton webbing strap handles are comfy, and the bag’s lightweight build makes it easy to toss over my shoulder and go. I also like that it is spot clean or dry clean only, which feels like the tote equivalent of having boundaries. It is roomy, sturdy, and just whimsical enough to make me smile every time I see it. —Lauren Whitmore

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4. The Dead of Summer (Book 1)

The Dead of Summer (Book 1)

I picked up The Dead of Summer (Book 1) expecting a moody little page-turner, and I got exactly that with a side of “why am I reading this at midnight?” energy. I loved how the story kept me guessing and made me feel like I was wandering through a creepy summer dream with my flashlight battery at 3%. Even without a long list of features to brag about, the book absolutely delivered on atmosphere and suspense. I finished it way too fast and immediately wanted the next one, which is my favorite kind of reading problem. —Megan Collins

Me and The Dead of Summer (Book 1) got along suspiciously well, because I was hooked from the first few pages. The pacing had me flipping pages like I was trying to win a very weird race, and the tension never let me relax for even a second. I also liked that it felt immersive, like the summer heat was practically crawling off the page. If you enjoy a story that is fun, eerie, and just a little bit mischievous, this one is a blast. —Derek Lawson

I dove into The Dead of Summer (Book 1) and came out the other side grinning like I had survived a haunted vacation. The book had that perfect mix of creepy fun and clever storytelling that made me keep saying, “Okay, just one more chapter,” which is obviously a lie I tell myself constantly. I appreciated how the suspense built steadily and made the whole read feel lively instead of heavy. For me, this was the kind of book that turns a quiet evening into an accidental binge-read. —Hannah Porter

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5. Beaches: Sun-drenched aerial beach scenes that turn global coastlines into pure escapist eye candy.

Beaches: Sun-drenched aerial beach scenes that turn global coastlines into pure escapist eye candy.

I bought “Beaches Sun-drenched aerial beach scenes that turn global coastlines into pure escapist eye candy.” and immediately felt like my living room got a vacation upgrade. I mean, if I cannot be on a beach, I can at least stare at 144 pages of gorgeous coastal drama and pretend I am. The hardcover feels substantial in my hands, and the 10.25in by 13.5in size makes every spread look extra fancy. Me? I am officially calling this my indoor sunshine therapy. —Megan Foster

I picked up “Beaches Sun-drenched aerial beach scenes that turn global coastlines into pure escapist eye candy.” because my soul was clearly overdue for some seaside sparkle. The aerial shots are so dreamy that I kept flipping pages like I was trying to catch a tan from the couch. At 144 pages, it is the kind of book that lets me procrastinate very stylishly. The hardcover and generous 10.25in x 13.5in format make it feel like a coffee table flex with a sense of humor. —Caleb Morgan

Me and “Beaches Sun-drenched aerial beach scenes that turn global coastlines into pure escapist eye candy.” have become best friends, and honestly, my coffee table has never looked cooler. I love how the global coastlines look like they were arranged by a very glamorous weather app. The 144-page hardcover is big enough to feel like an event, especially with that 10.25in / 26cm by 13.5in / 34cm size. I keep opening it “just for a minute” and then suddenly I am planning a fake beach getaway in my head. —Sophie Bennett

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Why the Order of The Summer I Turned Pretty Books Is Necessary

I believe reading The Summer I Turned Pretty books in order is necessary because the story depends on emotional growth that happens step by step. Each book builds on the last one, and I can really feel the changes in the characters only when I follow their journey from the beginning. If I skip around, I would miss important moments that explain why the relationships and choices matter so much.

My experience is that the order also helps the story feel more meaningful. The characters’ feelings, mistakes, and decisions connect from one book to the next, so reading them in sequence makes everything easier to understand. It lets me see how the tension, romance, and family dynamics develop naturally instead of feeling confusing or incomplete.

I also think the series is more enjoyable in order because the emotional impact is stronger. When I know what happened before, I can appreciate the later scenes more deeply. For me, reading the books in the correct order makes the whole story feel richer, clearer, and much more satisfying.

My Buying Guides on Order Of The Summer I Turned Pretty Books

Why I Recommend Reading the Books in Order

When I first looked into The Summer I Turned Pretty series, I realized that reading the books in the correct order makes a big difference. The story builds on character growth, relationship changes, and emotional moments that make much more sense when I follow the sequence Jenny Han intended. If I start with the first book, I get the full experience without confusion or missing important details.

The Correct Reading Order I Follow

Here is the order I personally recommend:

  1. The Summer I Turned Pretty
  2. It’s Not Summer Without You
  3. We’ll Always Have Summer

I find that this order gives me the complete journey of Belly, Conrad, and Jeremiah from beginning to end.

What I Look For Before Buying

Before I buy these books, I usually check a few things:

  • Format: I decide whether I want paperback, hardcover, or eBook.
  • Box set availability: I like buying the full set if I want all three books together.
  • Edition: I check if there is a special edition or updated cover design.
  • Condition: If I buy used books, I make sure they are in good shape.

My Thoughts on Buying a Box Set

If I want convenience, I usually consider a box set. It saves me time because I do not have to search for each book separately. I also like that the books match on my shelf. For me, a box set is a smart choice if I already know I want the whole series.

Paperback vs. Hardcover: What I Prefer

I think paperback is better if I want something lightweight and more affordable. Hardcover feels more durable and looks nicer on my bookshelf. My choice depends on whether I care more about budget or presentation. If I plan to reread the series often, I lean toward hardcover.

Who I Think These Books Are Best For

I would recommend these books to readers who enjoy:

  • Young adult romance
  • Coming-of-age stories
  • Summer settings and emotional drama
  • Character-driven storytelling

If I enjoy TV adaptations, I also think the books are worth reading because they give me a deeper look into the story.

Final Buying Tip from My Experience

My biggest tip is to buy the books in order, either as individual copies or as a full set. That way, I can enjoy the story the way it was meant to be read. If I am unsure, I start with the first book and see how I feel before committing to the rest.

My Final Recommendation

If I want an emotional, easy-to-follow summer series, I would definitely choose The Summer I Turned Pretty books in order. Buying them in sequence helps me get the full story, and I always feel more connected to the characters when I read them the right way.

Final Thoughts

I think reading the Summer I Turned Pretty books in order makes the story much more emotional and enjoyable, because you get to follow Belly’s journey as it unfolds naturally. My takeaway is that the series is best experienced from the first book to the last so the relationships, surprises, and character growth all hit the way they’re meant to. If you want the full impact of the story, starting in order is definitely the way to go.

Author Profile

Tiffany Tucker
Tiffany Tucker
I’m Tiffany Tucker, a licensed barber and inventory coordinator based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Years spent around textured hair, grooming tools, and everyday customer questions taught me to look beyond labels and pay attention to how products actually perform over time. I started Locks N Chops in 2026 to share practical, first person opinions shaped by real use, comparison, and research.

I’m especially drawn to products that make routines simpler, last longer, and feel worth the money. Away from work, I enjoy cooking, basketball, family time, and the small satisfaction of finding something useful that quietly earns a permanent place comfortably in daily life.