Review: Dreamland by Sarah Dessen

250 pages

Published: May 11th 2004 (first published September 1st 2000)

Published by: Speak

Source: Publisher

Rating: 4/5

Wake up, Caitlin

Ever since she started going out with Rogerson Biscoe, Caitlin seems to have fallen into a semiconscious dreamland where nothing is quite real. Rogerson is different from anyone Caitlin has ever known. He's magnetic. He's compelling. He's dangerous. Being with him makes Caitlin forget about everything else--her missing sister, her withdrawn mother, her lackluster life. But what happens when being with Rogerson becomes a larger problem than being without him?

Note: I am beyond excited to be part of the Summer of Sarah Dessen campaign! I've been reading Sarah's books since I was in high school (and that was ages ago) so she has a special place in my heart. Thank you so much, Penguin! If you want to read along, check out the calendar! 

Dreamland is very dark. Even though Sarah Dessen is known for her realistic depiction of family dynamics, this book takes it a step further. The romance is tainted in very gut-wrenching way. As a reader, I would catch myself making excuses for Rogerson even though I knew he was bad news. This tells me that Sarah Dessen is a genius. The book is written in a way that allows you to go through that horrific roller-coaster with Caitlin.  You start accepting Rogerson's excuses even though you know that you shouldn't. If that's not a sign of a fantastic storyteller then I don't know what is. 

This story is so important. I can't say that enough. It deals with abuse and the struggle to get out of that dark hole. I love the way it doesn't sugarcoat the issue. Instead, the vicious cycle is front and center. Caitlin feels trapped and weak. She tries to deal with an issue that is a little too big for her to handle on her own. I wish every teen would read this so that they can understand how things can escalate rather quickly. 

Raw, brilliant, and powerful, Dreamland is one of those books that stays with you forever. I had a difficult time reading it because of how emotional it made me feel. Have your to-go Happy Kit in case the same happens to you.

Flash Reviews - August Edition!

1. The Strange and Beautiful Sorrows of Ava Lavender

What I liked about it: Basically, it is Magical Realism at its best. It takes you on an unexpected and heart-wrenching journey of self-discovery and the true nature of humans. This novel is whimsical and unique. Even though it might be the strangest book I've ever read, I enjoyed it immensely. It follows multiple generations of the same family, ending with Ava, the girl with wings. Her story will make you cry, cringe, and most importantly, it'll make you think. 

What I didn't like about it: n/a
Rating: 5/5





2. Isla and the Happily Ever After

What I liked about it: Like the two novels before it, Isla is adorable and quirky. I love the romance in these novels because it makes me smile and break into a song. The (short) visit to Barcelona left me on cloud nine. Stephanie Perkins knows how to make the setting shine and I love her for it. 

What I didn't like about it: Unlike the previous novels, this one felt a little flat and weak. For the most part, I liked Isla and Josh. However, I rolled my eyes way too many times to fully love this novel and I REALLY wanted to love it.

Rating: 3/5

3. Love, Rosie

What I liked about it: In case you don't know, this novel is about two friends who could be more than friends but life keeps them apart. I wasn't expecting much from this one but I was pleasantly surprised. It takes place during a long span of time, and when I say long I mean over forty years. I loved the relationship between Rosie and Alex and how it develops very naturally. I really enjoyed the story and the format (emails, letters, etc.)  

What I didn't like about it: I drags on forever and a day. I don't necessarily mind this but I feel like the novel could've been shorter. 

Rating: 4/5





4. Hold Still

What I liked about it: Hold Still is my first Nina LaCour novel and it won't be my last. LaCour's writing is stunning. I didn't just read Caitlin's story, I lived it. I feel like this novel doesn't sugarcoat suicide. It deals with it head-on and that makes the story that much more important. The characters, the setting, the letters, the beautiful illustrations, the importance of photography in Caitlin's healing process...I loved it all.  

What I didn't like about it: n/a
Rating: 5/5




5. A Monster Calls

What I liked about it: Hmmm, everything? I received this beauty for my birthday and I had to read it immediately. The story is so unique and incredibly touching. Patrick Ness does a wonderful job with the fantasy element of the novel. I particularly loved the illustrations. They complemented the story perfectly.  What do you get when beautiful illustrations and a flawlessly written story come together? You get a magnificent reading experience.

What I didn't like about it: n/a
Rating: 5/5