While domestic violence is not a subject new to most Americans,
domestic violence that targets teenage girls may be. Dreamland,
Sarah Dessen's gripping novel for readers 12 and up (14 and
up might be more appropriate), bravely tackles that disturbing
topic.
Caitlin's world is turned upside down the morning of her 16th
birthday. When her older sister Cassandra abandoned her dreams
of an Ivy league education in favor of romance in Manhattan,
she endangered Caitlin's future as well. It was tough enough
to step out of perfection's shadow. ŹNow that perfection was
in trouble, Caitlin wondered if she'd ever really be seen.
Enter the dark and dangerous Rogerson Biscoe -- a troubled
boy who offers Caitlin the love and attention she craves, but
with a terrifying, abusive new twist. A powerful story of human
need and, ultimately, survival.
Dessen reminds us, young boys who grow up with abuse also
grow up to be teenagers. Deep seeded violent behaviors sometimes
make them abusive dates and boyfriends, long before they victimize
brides.
Click here to buy: Dreamland
at Amazon.com.
