Jenny Han Says Creating “The Summer I Turned Pretty” Is a ‘Totally Different Beast’ From Her Novels (Exclusive)

Jenny Han Discusses the Creation of ‘The Summer I Turned Pretty’

Author Jenny Han has truly made a mark on the literary world with her collection of young adult novels. However, none have quite captured the global spotlight like “The Summer I Turned Pretty.” Han took on multiple roles in the creation of the Prime Video series based on her book trilogy, serving as the creator, writer, co-showrunner, and executive producer. In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE, she delves into the unique challenges and rewards of bringing her vision to the screen.

Han’s dedication to authenticity and realism shines through in her approach to storytelling. She shared, “I like to watch something and really just feel like, ‘These are real people, living their real lives.'” This commitment to perfectionism extends to every detail onscreen, as she meticulously crafts each scene to resonate with audiences on a personal level.

The transition from a successful novelist to a multifaceted creator in the realm of television has been a transformative journey for Han. While her previous work, such as the “To All The Boys I’ve Loved Before” trilogy adapted into Netflix films, laid the foundation for her foray into screenwriting, “The Summer I Turned Pretty” presented a new and exciting challenge. Han revealed, “I really wanted to be able to do it myself — and to do it the way that I envisioned it.”

Taking on the roles of creator, writer, co-showrunner, and executive producer has demanded a significant commitment from Han. She described the experience as all-encompassing, admitting that the series has become a central focus in her life. Balancing the demands of production with her own creative standards has pushed her to new heights, both creatively and personally.

Reflecting on the emotional journey of bringing “The Summer I Turned Pretty” to life, Han shared that the process has been both fulfilling and intense. Immersed in the world of the series, she found herself dedicating nearly every moment to its development. From crafting intricate plotlines to overseeing production details, Han’s involvement was deep-rooted and unwavering.

Despite the challenges and sacrifices that come with creating a television series, Han finds immense joy and energy in the work. She expressed gratitude for the opportunity to delve into this new realm of storytelling, embracing the complexities and rewards that come with it. Each decision, no matter how small, contributes to the immersive experience she strives to create for viewers.

As a self-proclaimed perfectionist, Han’s eye for detail is evident throughout the series. From the choice of props to the nuances of character development, every aspect is carefully considered and tailored to her vision. She explained, “I also like things how I like them. So I am always on set, because so much storytelling happens at every single level.”

In a landscape where authenticity and relatability are paramount, Han’s dedication to authenticity shines through in her work. She emphasised the importance of creating a world where audiences can connect with the characters on a deep and personal level. Her meticulous approach to storytelling ensures that every detail serves to enhance the overall narrative, creating a rich and immersive viewing experience.

As “The Summer I Turned Pretty” continues to captivate audiences, Han’s creative journey serves as a testament to the power of storytelling and the transformative impact of pursuing one’s artistic vision. With each episode, viewers are invited into a world where every detail is carefully crafted, every emotion deeply felt, and every character authentically portrayed. Han’s unwavering dedication to her craft continues to inspire and resonate with fans around the world.