Recently, Netflix has just released the conclusion to the To All The Boys trilogy adapted from books by author Jenny Han. The story about Lara Jean, whose love letters for her five crushes got sent mysteriously turning her life upside down.
Those who have been following the movie since the first came out in 2018 are getting misty-eyed over the end of Lara Jean’s journey. But for those who haven’t started yet, I would highly recommend reading the books before you hit that Netflix plays button.
Here are the reasons why you should read the trilogy:
1.Asian character in an American novel
Growing up watching Lizzie McGuire, Mean Girls, High School Musical, or Glee, you’ll notice the lack of representations in Asian characters in those American High School. Even in Meg Cabot novels, the Asian characters are merely supporting characters and tokens.
Being Korean-American herself, Jenny Han wrote a great representation of Asian-American in high school. Her writing provides diversity in the American writing industry and possibly inspires others to do more.
2. Lara Jean is #relatable
Being Asian myself and an introvert (mind you), I can still relate to Lara Jean despite being in my mid-twenties. She reminds me of how I was in school. The story is from her perspective and A LOT of her thoughts, actions, and decisions will remind you of the exploration and confusion in discovering new things about yourself and figuring out your future. Not to mention her wit that will form a smile on your face while reading.
Despite being born and raised in America, Lara Jean still maintained some of the qualities that we’re familiar with as Asians strengthening points that it is just good parenting and despite where you’re from.
3. Gets you nostalgic about school life
Jenny Han wrote what could possibly be one of the most pleasant American school stories I’ve ever read. Most of us Malaysians do miss our school years where it was our whole life and we do not have to worry about work or paying bills. The many young adult’s novels deal a lot about dating, being bullied for being unpopular, prom, geek vs. the popular group et cetera. For those reasons, I could never relate to American high school.
One of the anti-stereotype points in the book is Peter Kravinsky. He is an athlete or as the term, we’re familiar with, he is a high-school ‘jock’. Peter will make you wish you’ve had a ‘Peter’ in school back in the day. If you’re still in school, then you’ll wish for a ‘Peter’ now. He brought out a new side of her that even she herself has no idea exists. Typical American high school drama told us that ‘jocks’ are handsome bullies. Somehow the main characters always have a crush on them in the beginning. But Peter K and his friends break that stereotype. His relationship with Lara Jean is the highlight of this story.
4. Mature and profound message
Another thing about Lara Jean is that she never conforms to the stereotype laden world of American high school. She rises to the occasion and focused on her goals and her relationship. Others focus on popularity but Lara Jean just wants to be happy with her small group of friends and family. Her humility and goal-oriented personality inspire you to be better. The story also talks about loyalty, choosing the best for your future, and letting go of unnecessary burdens, some of these problems that we still carry into adulthood.
Source: GoodReads, Jenny Han, Netflix Youtube