Dreamland by Sarah Dessen masterfully navigates themes of trauma and self-discovery through its compelling protagonist. Critics praise its emotional depth and realistic portrayal of difficult topics, though some feel the pacing drags and character development for supporting roles is lacking. Overall, it's a poignant and thought-provoking read.

Fans of Sarah Dessen's Dreamland typically appreciate complex, emotional narratives about teenage life and personal growth. Ideal for readers of Laurie Halse Anderson's Speak or Gayle Forman's If I Stay, this book resonates with those who enjoy profound, relatable stories of young adult characters facing real-world challenges.

In Dreamland by Sarah Dessen, teenager Caitlin O’Koren reacts to her sister Cass's disappearance by charting her own path, leading to a tumultuous relationship with Rogerson, who becomes increasingly abusive. As Caitlin navigates this harsh reality, she undergoes a significant transformation and healing process. This novel graphically depicts teen dating violence, family abuse, and drug use.

Emotional / Challenging / Melancholic / Contemplative / Bittersweet

- Sarah Dessen has mentioned in interviews that the idea for Dreamland came from her fascination with the delicate and complex relationships people can have and how they navigate through difficult times.
- Dreamland was published in 2000, and is one of Sarah Dessen's earlier novels, contributing to her reputation for addressing deep and challenging themes in young adult fiction.
- The novel was featured in Meg Cabot’s Book Club on NPR in 2009, highlighting its continued impact and relevance in the YA genre.

**Caitlin O’Koren**  
A 16-year-old girl who navigates shifting family dynamics and complex relationships with peers, using her photography to explore her evolving sense of identity.

**Rogerson Biscoe**  
Caitlin’s enigmatic boyfriend who is known among peers for his intelligence and involvement in selling marijuana, living a life shaped by difficult family dynamics.

**Cass O’Koren**  
Caitlin’s older sister, whose choices and absence prompt significant emotional and interpersonal challenges for Caitlin and her family.

Sarah Dessen

Novel

Fiction

Guide

Study Guide

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Overview

Get ready to explore Dreamland and its meaning. Our full analysis and study guide provides an even deeper dive with character analysis and quotes explained to help you discover the complexity and beauty of this book.

Dreamland Summary

Background

Dreamland Background

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Prologue

Dreamland Prologue Summary & Analysis

Part 1: “Cass”

Part 1, Chapters 1-3

Dreamland Part 1, Chapters 1-3 Summary & Analysis

Part 1, Chapters 4-6

Dreamland Part 1, Chapters 4-6 Summary & Analysis

Part 2: “Rogerson”

Part 2, Chapter 7

Dreamland Part 2, Chapter 7 Summary & Analysis

Part 2, Chapters 8-10

Dreamland Part 2, Chapters 8-10 Summary & Analysis

Part 2, Chapters 11-12

Dreamland Part 2, Chapters 11-12 Summary & Analysis

Part 3: “Me”

Part 3, Chapters 13-15

Dreamland Part 3, Chapters 13-15 Summary & Analysis

character

Character Analysis

Dreamland Character Analysis

theme

Themes

Dreamland Themes

Symbols & Motifs

Dreamland Symbols & Motifs

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Important Quotes

Dreamland Important Quotes

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Essay Topics

Dreamland Essay Topics

Dreamland Further Reading & Resources

Dreamland

Before You Read

Reviews & Readership

Review Roundup

Who Should Read Dreamland?

Reading Age

Book Details