Dreamland

by Sarah Dessen
Dreamland cover
Good Books rating 3.33
Fantasy
Technical
  • ID: 5802
  • Added: 2025-10-24
  • Updated: 2025-10-24
  • Publisher: Viking Books for Young Readers
  • Published: 2000-01-01
  • Reviews: 3

Tom Mullen, abandoned in his youth, feels an inexplicable pull toward a recently unearthed mass grave on his school grounds. This discovery leads him on a journey through time, where he uncovers secrets about his past and the true purpose of his existence. /n/n As Tom delves deeper into the mysteries of the grave, he is transported to a different era, where he must confront the truths of his destiny. The novel blends elements of time travel and personal discovery, creating a compelling narrative that explores themes of identity and fate.

Reviews
Amazon · 2025-10-24
disappointed 2.00

The reviewer was disappointed with the book, finding it lacking compared to other works by the author. They felt it could have been better.

This reviewer, who has read nearly all of Sarah Dessen's books, was disappointed with Dreamland. They had high expectations but felt the book fell short. They mention that the mistake might have been their own, expecting something different. However, they do acknowledge that the book has its moments but overall, it didn't live up to their expectations.

Quick quotes

    I've read nearly all of Sarah Dessen's books and I'd been wanting to read this for a while, but to be honest, I was slightly disappointed.

    The mistake might have been mine, expecting something different.

    It has its moments, but overall, it didn't live up to my expectations.

Stop the Hurt · 2023-09-12
important 3.50

The novel portrays the complex emotions of a survivor in an abusive relationship, though it has its flaws. It's a tough read but important for its honest depiction.

This reviewer acknowledges that Dreamland has its flaws, but they appreciate the honest portrayal of a survivor's emotions in an abusive relationship. It's a tough read, but the reviewer believes it's an important story that needs to be told. They highlight the complexity of the protagonist's feelings and the realistic portrayal of the dynamics of abuse. However, they also note that the novel could have been improved with more depth in certain areas.

Quick quotes

    Though the novel has many flaws, there is an honest portrayal of a survivor not wanting the relationship to end, helping cover the abuse,

    It's a tough read, but it's an important story that needs to be told.

    The novel does a great job of showing the complexity of the protagonist's feelings and the dynamics of abuse.

Her Campus · 2022-11-01
devastating 4.50

The book is devastating and emotionally impactful, leaving the reader with a heavy heart. It's a powerful exploration of a difficult topic.

This reviewer found Dreamland to be an incredibly emotional and devastating read. They felt their heart breaking with each turn of the page, highlighting the powerful impact the book had on them. The reviewer appreciates the raw and honest exploration of dating violence and the emotional journey of the protagonist. They believe it's a book that will stay with the reader long after they've finished it.

Quick quotes

    Dreamland is nothing short of devastating.

    Every time I turned the page, it was like I could physically feel my heart breaking a little more.

    It's a powerful exploration of a difficult topic that will stay with you long after you've finished reading.

Appears in Lists