PEN15 is a comedy web television series that premiered on Hulu in 2019. The show was created by Maya Erskine, Anna Konkle, and Sam Zvibleman. It follows the lives of two 13-year-old girls, Maya and Anna, as they navigate through the ups and downs of middle school in the year 2000.

What sets PEN15 apart from other shows about adolescence is that the creators, who are in their 30s, play the roles of the 13-year-old girls. This adds a unique layer of authenticity to the show, as they are able to draw from their own experiences of growing up in the early 2000s. The show also tackles topics that are often considered taboo, such as masturbation and sexuality, in a way that is both humorous and relatable.

PEN15 has been praised for its accurate portrayal of middle school and the awkwardness that comes with it. The show has also been lauded for its nuanced depiction of female friendships, as Maya and Anna navigate their changing relationship while dealing with their own personal struggles. Overall, PEN15 is a fresh and honest take on the coming-of-age genre, and is definitely worth checking out.

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