4.24 avg rating — 2,006,386 ratings

"This book touches everything from not fitting in,drinking, drug abuse, abusive relationships, rape,and betrayal to grades. However, it is written in the hands off manner of a bystander, which truly gives the novel a unique perspective and voice. "

4.05 avg rating — 250,558 ratings

"Sarah Dessen really seems to write honest and compelling teenage girls. Just Listen perfectly blends dark undertones with the redemption of moving foward. "

3.80 avg rating — 3,902,497 ratings

"A classic for a reason. Catcher truly seems to go into the troubled mind of a teenage boy."

3.84 avg rating — 69,428 ratings

"One of Dessen's angstier heroines, but by far one of my most relatable. "

3.90 avg rating — 32,832 ratings

"I had to cringe a lot while reading this book, but its take on self mutalation is honest and raw. Plus, there's a decently happy ending."

3.79 avg rating — 196,072 ratings

"I expected this book to be a fluffy teen story, but under the humor there is a depth that really seems to drive the whole story home. "

3.25 avg rating — 1,785 ratings

"The love sick and yet witty voice of the main character is absolutely wonderful. Dont expect a very realistic read here, but certainly a funny and clever one. "

4.01 avg rating — 21,444 ratings

"This is one of my favorite books of all time. Realistic and yet extremely warm, Hope's attitude is perfectly on point to anyone coping with change. "

3.71 avg rating — 7,190 ratings

"The understanding of loss while coming of age is very on point in this book. "

3.79 avg rating — 1,619 ratings

"Backwater covers everything from rebellion, to determination all wrapped up in some humorous new experiences. "

3.99 avg rating — 152,418 ratings

"Another great book by Dessen that hits family separation and disfunction pretty squarely. "

3.62 avg rating — 18,345 ratings

"This book walks the line of a complicated friendship perfectly. "

3.66 avg rating — 5,116 ratings

"This book is flawlessly funny, and completely enthralling. Plus, the leading lady is a badass ginger. "