I don’t quite know how I feel about the series. But I will say this. I highly recommend the trilogy (the novels not the movie). All three novels were very well written and a nice easy read. I really enjoyed the added culture and the family-oriented values Lara Jean shares with her family and friends. The movie, in my opinion, is also really good and I loved binge-watching all three. I love how Lana Condor plays Lara Jean and Noah Centineo really got into his character Peter K. The only reason for which I prefer the novels is because they’re longer and more in detail. I think the movie cuts out some important bits, but it’s overall pretty similar. I also enjoyed seeing the author, Jenny Han in the third movie. The concept of being surrounded by a loving family and having fun hobbies (like baking, scrapbooking, writing love letters) promotes a positive image for the younger audience and also is a good reminder to anyone of age that we should be spending time doing things we love. The overall message was very positive and I am glad that Jenny Han included it.
SPOILER ALERT
A powerful moment for me was when Lara Jean committed to the college of William and Mary instead of the University of North Carolina Chapel Hill. Or in reference to the movie, when she chooses NYU for the full four years rather than transferring to Stanford her Sophomore year. Even though it may be upsetting that they aren’t going to the same school, and having a long-distance relationship is tough, the idea that Lara Jean was strong enough to choose what was best for her, was extremely powerful. This should resonate with a lot of other teenage girls. Don’t pick the college that your best friend attends or your boyfriend. Choose the college that best fits you. Even if you don’t know anyone there or it’s far away from home. You will adapt to it and you will meet new people. Worst case scenario, transfer your second year. In the end, it all works out and the ending was very sweet.
