The Fitter, Happier UnLibrarian's Blog of Young Adult Books: Dreamland by Sarah Dessen

Dreamland by Sarah Dessen

Dreamland by Sarah Dessen

Publisher: Penguin Group (USA)
Publish Date: May 2004
ISBN: 0142401757
Reading Level: Young Adult
Classification: Fiction
Genre: Real Life/Coming of Age

Subjects: Abuse, Drugs, Relationships, Rebellion, Sex

Annotation:

Caitlin O'Koren has always been overshadowed by her older sister Cass. That is until Cass runs away and Caitlin gets involved with the wrong person who leads her down a spiral of drugs, abuse and mental dependency.

Summary:

Caitlin’s family life is hard as her sister Cass has disappeared and her family is falling apart. One night she notices Rogerson Biscoe and becomes increasingly interested even though she knows he is a drug dealer. Everything chances from this point as Rogerson keeps Caitlin’s mind off her problems at home. She begins to give up her friends for him because he gets mad when she is with them. Caitlin starts engaging in drug use with his friends and he begins abusing her physically. After having sex with him, Caitlin is afraid to leave, although in the back of her mind she knows things aren't right. Thing escalate from there and Caitlin's family try to intercept and help her get off drugs and emotionally stable.

Megan says:

I found Dreamland to be another compelling novel by Sarah Dessen. Many delicate issues are presented as the psychological whirlwind that accompanies an abusive relationship is told both vividly and with heartbreaking details. This realistic story takes a hard look at the pressures teens face as they enter adulthood, including the feelings of first love. This story may allude conversation with parents about healthy relationships and abuse.

Stars: ★ ★ ★ ★

Sarah Dessen Website
Sarah Dessen Live Journal

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