One of my favourite shows at the moment is called PEN15. It’s about Maya and Anna, two 7th grade BFFs figuring out all of the weird and wonderful things about puberty, boys, mean girls, and friendship. So what’s the catch? They’re played by adults! It’s really incredible how well these actors come across as their younger selves, and the show is set in the early 2000s so it’s actually based on their own experiences growing up.

PEN15 is super nostalgic for me. So many moments between Maya and Anna remind me of my friendships in middle school — from begging my parents to let me stay over on a school night to suddenly thinking I’m a witch. It’s a show with a ton of heart and I just adore it to pieces!

Another show that hit me in the feels was EVERYTHING SUCKS! from 2018. Unfortunately, this comedy-drama coming of age series only got one season on Netflix, but it’s well worth a watch if you grew up in the 90s. Plus Euphoria‘s Sydney Sweeney is one of the central characters! The casting feels so special and everyone gives really great performances that feel authentic to the era. I’m sad that we only got one season of this gem, but one season is better than nothing, I suppose.

I would love to watch more recent shows similar to PEN15 and EVERYTHING SUCKS! If you have any recommendations please hit me up.