Adulthood Series

The 'Adulthood' series is this gritty, coming-of-age saga that hits way closer to home than I expected. It follows a group of friends navigating the messy transition from reckless youth to... well, whatever this chaotic phase of life is supposed to be. The first installment, 'Kidulthood', sets the tone with raw portrayals of teenage rebellion in London, but the sequel 'Adulthood' shifts focus to Sam, now released from prison and wrestling with guilt, revenge, and second chances. What I love is how unflinching it is—characters make awful decisions, face real consequences, and the soundtrack (grime, garage) becomes this visceral heartbeat of their struggles.

Later entries like 'Brotherhood' dive into loyalty and toxic masculinity with even higher stakes. It's not just about aging; it's about cycles—how trauma and environment shape you. The cinematography’s all handheld cameras and bleak housing estates, making it feel like you’re eavesdropping on real lives. Funny thing is, I revisited it last year after a career setback, and suddenly Sam’s arc resonated differently. That’s the magic of this series—it grows with you, flaws and all.

The 'Adulthood' series was penned by the brilliant British author Opeyemi Sofolahan. I stumbled upon their work completely by accident when a friend left 'Adulthood: The Awakening' at my place after a book club meeting. What struck me immediately was how Sofolahan captures that messy transition from youth to responsibility – the way they balance humor with existential dread feels so authentic.

Their background as a playwright really shines through in the dialogue-heavy scenes where characters debate life choices over pints at the pub. Over three novels, Sofolahan built this deeply relatable universe where mundane moments like paying bills or attending weddings become these profound milestones. I love how they never shy away from showing the unglamorous side of growing up while still finding magic in ordinary lives.

The 'Adulthood' series is one of those hidden gems I stumbled upon while browsing through indie bookstores. From what I've gathered, there are three main books in the series: 'Adulthood Is a Myth', 'Big Mushy Happy Lump', and 'People Are Terrible'. Each one is packed with Sarah Andersen's signature humor and relatable takes on the messy transition into adulthood. I particularly love how she captures the awkwardness of growing up—like when you realize you’ve become the kind of person who gets excited about new sponges.

What makes the series stand out is its blend of comics and essays. It’s not just about the number of books but how each one feels like a conversation with a friend who totally gets it. If you’re into slice-of-life humor with a dash of existential dread, these are worth binge-reading in one sitting.

The 'Adulthood' series hit me at just the right time—I was navigating my own messy transition into grown-up life when I stumbled onto the first book. What I love is how it balances raw, awkward moments with these sudden flashes of profound clarity. The protagonist's voice feels so authentic, especially in the way they grapple with societal expectations versus personal desires.

Some criticize the pacing in later installments, but for me, that slower burn mirrored how real growth happens—uneven, frustrating, with backslides. The author's willingness to explore mundane struggles (like office politics or dating fatigue) without romanticizing them makes the rare triumphant moments land harder. It's not a flashy series, but it lingers in your mind like conversations with an old friend who knows all your flaws.

'Adolescence' is one of those shows that grabs you by the collar and doesn’t let go. It’s a four-part Netflix series that dives into the dark and unsettling world of teenage life, wrapped in a crime drama. The story follows Jamie Miller, a 13-year-old boy who gets arrested for the murder of his classmate, Katie Leonard. What makes this series stand out is its unique filming style—each episode is shot in one continuous take, which creates this intense, almost claustrophobic atmosphere. You’re right there with the characters, feeling every moment of their pain, confusion, and desperation.

The show doesn’t just focus on the crime itself but also explores the ripple effects on Jamie’s family and the community. It’s a raw, unfiltered look at the pressures teenagers face today, from cyberbullying to toxic masculinity. The cast, led by Stephen Graham and Owen Cooper, delivers powerhouse performances that make the story even more gripping. By the end, you’re left questioning not just Jamie’s actions but the society that shaped him. It’s a heavy watch, but one that stays with you long after the credits roll.

'Adulting 101' caught my attention because it’s such a relatable guide for navigating the chaos of growing up. From what I’ve gathered, it’s a standalone book written by Lisa Henry and Kelly Williams Brown, packed with witty advice on everything from budgeting to laundry.

While it doesn’t belong to a formal series, the authors have other works like 'The Life-Changing Magic of Not Giving a F*ck' and 'How to Be a Person in the World,' which share a similar tone. If you’re looking for a follow-up, those might scratch the itch. The book’s humor and practicality make it feel like part of a broader conversation about adulthood, even if it’s not part of a numbered sequence.

It's so relatable to see how many TV series tackle the reality of adulting, each in its unique style! One standout that comes to mind is 'Fleabag.' This show, created by Phoebe Waller-Bridge, dives deep into the chaotic life of a young woman navigating grief, relationships, and the complexities of modern life. The humor is sharp and messy, just like real life. I love how Waller-Bridge manages to balance the heavy topics with moments of levity, making it feel like you’re having a candid chat with a friend who’s going through a rough patch. You can’t help but feel a connection with her struggles; it’s a fantastic portrayal of trying to find yourself while juggling adult responsibilities.

Another gem is 'The Good Place,' which, while it has a fantastical premise, speaks volumes about personal growth and redemption. Watching these characters confront their past mistakes and challenge their moral beliefs resonates on so many levels. The balance of comedic moments with serious themes, particularly through the exploration of what it means to be a good person, really makes you think. I found myself laughing and reflecting on my own life choices, which is pretty powerful. Plus, who doesn’t love a good plot twist? The character dynamics and the way they evolve through their experiences are so engaging!

It’s impossible to overlook 'Girls,' which is another excellent example of grappling with adulthood. Lena Dunham's creation is raw and honest, highlighting the insecurities and pressures we all deal with. Each character faces their struggles in love, work, and friendship, embodying the messiness of life in their individual ways. I felt seen in so many moments, especially as the characters navigate the ups and downs of relationships and careers. It’s that blend of awkwardness and heart that's so refreshing; it feels like real life isn't always picture-perfect! The series does an incredible job of showcasing that confusion we all feel stepping into adulthood.

Lastly, 'Master of None' deserves a shout-out. Aziz Ansari’s take on the trials and tribulations of an Indian-American man living in New York City tackles everything from dating to career dilemmas with a delightful mix of humor and poignancy. The episodic structure allows for deep dives into specific themes, and the storytelling style is genuinely refreshing. I can think of numerous moments where I’ve cringed and laughed at the same time, realizing how well it reflects my own experiences. These shows remind me we’re all on this wild ride together, figuring things out one day at a time! It’s comforting to watch others stumble, trip, and still manage to stand back up again.

The 'Outlander' series, beyond the romance, is a deep dive into a marriage over decades. Jamie and Claire face separation, trauma, parenting, political upheaval, and aging together. The challenge is maintaining a partnership through wildly changing circumstances and personal evolution. Seeing them grow from passionate young lovers into seasoned, sometimes weary, partners navigating later-life crises is uniquely compelling for a genre series.