This lullaby
a novel
📖 Summary
Published in 2004, Sarah Dessen's acclaimed juvenile fiction novel This Lullaby explores the intricate emotional architecture of teenage relationships, personal independence, and the fear of vulnerability through the experiences of its fiercely pragmatic protagonist, Remy. Remy has learned one absolute rule about romance from her mother, a five-time divorcee and successful romance novelist: never let a boy break your heart, and never date anyone for more than a few weeks. True to this doctrine, Remy acts as the architect of her own romantic life, meticulously orchestrating brief, low-stakes flings and ending them before any genuine emotional attachment can form. She prides herself on being detached, analytical, and entirely in control of her social customs and dating life, viewing permanence in relationships as an unnecessary and dangerous liability. Her defensive philosophy is challenged, however, when she crosses paths with Dexter, a chaotic, music-obsessed musician who plays in a struggling rock group. Dexter is the absolute antithesis of Remy's usual type. He is messy, persistent, deeply involved in the local music scene, and completely unapologetic about who he is. Despite Remy's best efforts to keep him at arm's length and execute a swift, predictable breakup, Dexter refuses to follow her script. Instead of retreating, he pushes past her emotional armor with a stubborn charm and an unwavering presence that gradually disrupts her carefully constructed routines. As Remy and Dexter spend more time together, the novel delves deep into the realities of interpersonal dynamics, contrasting Remy's hyper-controlled approach with Dexter's spontaneous, go-with-the-flow lifestyle. Through a series of witty banter, late-night band practices, and unexpected emotional confrontations, Remy begins to realize that her self-imposed rule is less about self-preservation and more about a deep-seated fear of abandonment, largely influenced by her absent father and her mother's transient romantic history. Alongside her evolving relationship with Dexter, Remy also navigates complex familial relationships, particularly her protective yet complicated bond with her mother and her loyalty to her brother, who is also trying to find his footing in the music world. The novel skillfully intertwines themes of rock music, the creative struggles of bands, and the shifting social customs of youth culture into a narrative about growth and maturity. Ultimately, This Lullaby is a thoughtful exploration of what it means to truly let someone in. Dessen crafts a compelling story about how love, while terrifying and unpredictable, is not a trap to be avoided but an essential part of the human experience. Remy's journey from a guarded cynic to someone willing to risk heartache for the sake of genuine connection forms the emotional core of this engaging young adult novel, offering readers a heartfelt look at the courage required to embrace vulnerability.
🎯 Key Lessons
⚖️ Pros & Cons
✅ Pros
Witty and engaging dialogue between the main characters.
A realistic and nuanced portrayal of teenage emotional growth.
Strong, multi-dimensional supporting characters, especially within the family dynamic.
An interesting backdrop involving the local music and band scene.
⚠️ Cons
Some romantic tropes follow predictable young adult genre conventions.
The protagonist's initial cynicism can occasionally feel stubborn to a fault.
✍️ About the Author
Sarah Dessen (b. 1970) is an American author known for beloved contemporary young adult novels exploring love and coming-of-age, including 'The Truth About Forever'.
View all books →❓ FAQ
Who is the author of This Lullaby? +
The book was written by Sarah Dessen.
When was the book published? +
It was published in the year 2004.
What is the main character's perspective on dating? +
Remy believes in keeping romances short and controlled to avoid ever getting her heart broken.
What role does music play in the story? +
Music is central to the plot, primarily through Dexter and his involvement in a local rock group.
How long is the novel? +
The book spans 345 pages.
