Dreamland

Caitlin's world spirals from that of a superficially happy teenager into a dark place. She has a sister who has run away, a new boyfriend, a best friend, and somewhat distant parents. What begins as a look at a teen's carefree life soon involves into a horrible secret that leads to a tumultuous conclusion. Dessen keeps the listener involved--cringing, even--as Caitlin's secret explodes, and her life unravels. Liz Morton's narration is adequate for the story's protagonist and above average for her best friend, Rena, but the other characters aren't up to par. Many of the voices sound too much like each other. Still, DREAMLAND provides a powerful message in a well-crafted and nicely paced story. It's worthy of a listen. M.B. (c) AudioFile 2009, Portland, Maine

February 4, 2002

Caitlin's perfect sister runs away from home and she finds herself trying to fill the gap the absence creates. "The characterizations have an unmistakable depth," said PW. Ages 12-up.

Starred review from August 1, 2009
Gr 7 Up-Caitlin wakes up on her 16th birthday to the news that Cass, her perfect, over-achieving, star athlete sister has run away. Having lived in her sister's shadow for so long, Caitlin almost doesn't know how to be herself. In an attempt to excel at something Cass never attempted, Caitlin tries out and gets on the cheerleading squad. Her mother now turns her spotlight on Caitlin who, for the first time, begins to see life through Cass's eyes. But maybe being Cass isn't all it was cracked up to be. Caitlin meets bad boy Rogerson Biscoe and they begin dating. Before long, the relationship becomes physically and emotionally abusive. Although Caitlin is afraid of him, she keeps the abuse a secret, and turns to drugs to ease the pain. It isn't until Rogerson loses it in public that the abuse stops. Sarah Dessen's powerful novel (Viking, 2000) is narrated by Liz Morton who does a marvelous job of making each voice unique, adding the right cadence and pitch. When Caitlin is particularly fearful of Rogerson, you can hear it in her voice as her panic escalates. This compelling tale will have teens sitting on the edge of their seats. A must-have for all young adult collections."Joan Kindig, James Madison University, Harrisonburg, VA"

Copyright 2009 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.