For decades, Sarah Dessen has reigned as a titan of young adult contemporary fiction, crafting unforgettable stories that resonate with the universal experiences of growing up. Her novels perfectly capture the essence of sun-drenched summers, the thrill of first love, the ache of first heartbreak, and the intricate, often messy, web of family dynamics. Whether you're a long-time fan ready for a nostalgic reread or a new reader eager to discover her magic, understanding the full scope of her work is the best way to start. This is where a comprehensive list of all books by Sarah Dessen in order becomes an essential tool.
Navigating her extensive bibliography can seem daunting. Do the stories connect? Is there a "right" way to read them? While each book stands on its own, many share subtle connections, with familiar characters and locations popping up in later novels. Reading them in publication order allows you to experience these crossovers as they were originally intended, creating a richer, more immersive journey through the fictional towns of Lakeview and Colby.
This guide provides the definitive roadmap to the Dessenverse. We will present a complete list of all books by Sarah Dessen in order of their original release date, offering a clear path through her entire collection. For each novel, you’ll find a concise summary that explores its core story, central themes, and the unique place it holds in her literary world. We'll give you everything you need to start your journey, ensuring you don't miss a single moment of the heartfelt, witty, and deeply relatable storytelling that has made Sarah Dessen a beloved author for generations of readers.
1. That Summer — 1996
The first of Sarah Dessen’s books in publication order, That Summer introduces readers to her signature style of blending heartfelt emotion with the relatable struggles of adolescence. The novel centers on fifteen-year-old Haven, who is grappling with significant life changes. Her father has left her mother for a younger woman, her sister is getting married, and she is uncomfortably tall at six feet. Haven finds herself longing for the simpler, happier times of a previous summer.
Core Themes and Character Arcs
The narrative explores how memory shapes our present and the challenge of accepting that the past cannot be recreated. Haven’s journey is one of self-acceptance and learning to navigate a family that is fracturing and reforming in new, unfamiliar ways. The return of her sister's old boyfriend, Sumner, serves as a catalyst for Haven to confront her nostalgia and begin to forge her own identity separate from her family's turmoil.
Why It's a Foundational Read
That Summer establishes key elements that become hallmarks of Dessen's later work. It's an excellent starting point for new readers wanting to see where it all began.
Family Dynamics: The novel provides a raw look at divorce and its impact on teenagers.
Character Growth: Haven's evolution from a girl lost in the past to one who embraces the present is a powerful central theme.
Relatable Angst: Dessen captures the awkwardness and uncertainty of being a teenager, from body image issues to feeling like an outsider.
As her debut, this book showcases the foundational storytelling that made Sarah Dessen a powerhouse in young adult fiction. For those interested in seeing how Dessen’s writing has evolved, starting with That Summer provides essential context. Explore more about the journey of this author and her debut novel.
2. Someone Like You — 1998
Sarah Dessen's second novel, Someone Like You, delves into the complexities of female friendship under pressure. The story follows best friends Halley and Scarlett as their seemingly unbreakable bond is tested. When Scarlett discovers she is pregnant after the sudden death of her boyfriend, she decides to keep the baby, a choice that forces Halley into a world of secrets and difficult decisions, particularly with her own overbearing mother.
Core Themes and Character Arcs
The novel is a poignant exploration of loyalty, responsibility, and the transition from childhood innocence to adult reality. Halley’s arc is defined by her struggle to support Scarlett while navigating her first serious romance with the seemingly rebellious Macon. She is caught between her fierce loyalty to her friend and the expectations of her mother, forcing her to find her own voice and define her own moral compass.
Why It's a Foundational Read
Someone Like You solidifies Dessen’s reputation for tackling serious young adult issues with nuance and heart. It is a crucial entry for readers following the books by Sarah Dessen in order.
Deep Friendship: The book offers a powerful and realistic portrayal of a deep female friendship tested by life-altering circumstances.
Moral Complexity: It moves beyond simple right-and-wrong scenarios, exploring the gray areas of loyalty, secrets, and family dynamics.
Introduction to Colby: This novel is notable for introducing the fictional beach town of Colby, a setting that becomes a recurring and beloved backdrop in many of Dessen's future stories.
This book also received the SCBWI Golden Kite Award, marking an early milestone in Dessen’s acclaimed career. To explore more about how authors build interconnected worlds, you can learn more about following authors' works in order.
3. Keeping the Moon — 1999
The third of Sarah Dessen’s books in order, Keeping the Moon, tackles themes of self-worth and body image with profound sensitivity. The story follows Colie, who has recently lost a significant amount of weight and is sent to spend the summer with her eccentric aunt in Colby. Still haunted by past bullying and struggling to see herself as anything other than the "fat girl," Colie must navigate new friendships and confront her deep-seated insecurities.
Core Themes and Character Arcs
The novel's central theme is the journey toward self-acceptance, exploring the idea that external transformation means little without internal healing. Colie’s arc is defined by her relationships with two new friends, Isabel and Morgan, who work with her at the Last Chance Bar and Grill. They challenge her perceptions of beauty, confidence, and what it means to truly own your identity. The narrative skillfully shows that finding your place often means accepting yourself first.
Why It's a Foundational Read
Keeping the Moon is a crucial entry in Dessen’s bibliography, celebrated for its honest portrayal of issues many young readers face.
Body Image: It provides a compassionate and unflinching look at the emotional impact of weight loss and the struggle to redefine oneself.
Female Friendships: The supportive dynamic between Colie, Isabel, and Morgan is a powerful highlight, showcasing how positive relationships can foster growth.
Finding Confidence: Colie's journey from a shy, insecure girl to someone who begins to find her voice is both inspiring and deeply relatable.
This book cemented Dessen's reputation for creating characters with authentic and poignant struggles. Its focus on inner strength over outer appearance remains a timeless and essential message for young adults.
4. Dreamland — 2000
With her fourth novel, Sarah Dessen delves into darker, more intense territory, proving her versatility as a storyteller. Dreamland follows sixteen-year-old Caitlin O’Koren, who feels invisible in the shadow of her "perfect" older sister, Cass, who has just run away. Seeking her own identity, Caitlin falls for the charismatic and dangerous Rogerson, plunging into a relationship that quickly becomes abusive and isolating.
Core Themes and Character Arcs
The novel is a stark and unflinching examination of teenage relationship abuse, identity loss, and the silent struggles many face. Caitlin’s journey is a harrowing descent as she loses herself to Rogerson’s control, alienating her friends and family. The narrative powerfully illustrates how easily someone can become trapped in a toxic cycle, losing their voice and sense of self. Her eventual path toward healing is a critical part of the story's impact.
Why It's a Foundational Read
Dreamland is a crucial entry in the list of books by Sarah Dessen in order because it marks a significant shift in tone, tackling mature subject matter with sensitivity and realism.
Emotional Depth: It explores the complexities of emotional and physical abuse in a way that was groundbreaking for YA fiction at the time.
Character Psychology: Dessen masterfully portrays Caitlin’s internal monologue, showing readers why she stays in the relationship, a perspective vital for understanding abuse dynamics.
Consequences and Healing: The story does not shy away from the devastating consequences but also offers a message of hope and the possibility of recovery.
This book cemented Dessen's reputation for writing stories that are not only relatable but also deeply important. It remains a powerful and necessary read for its honest depiction of a difficult, yet critical, topic.
5. This Lullaby — 2002
With This Lullaby, Sarah Dessen presents one of her most beloved and musically infused narratives. The story follows eighteen-year-old Remy, who, having watched her romance-novelist mother cycle through four husbands, is a firm believer in emotional detachment and clean breaks. Her summer plan is simple: work, save money for college, and avoid any romantic entanglements. This plan is immediately complicated by the arrival of Dexter, a charming and persistent musician who is everything Remy thinks she doesn't want.
Core Themes and Character Arcs
The novel delves into cynicism versus vulnerability, exploring whether it is possible to break free from familial patterns. Remy's entire identity is built on avoiding her mother's mistakes, but her relationship with Dexter forces her to question her rigid rules about love and life. Her journey is about learning to trust not just others, but herself, and accepting that love often requires a leap of faith. The soundtrack of local bands and Dexter’s "lullaby" provides a rich backdrop for this emotional transformation.
Why It's a Foundational Read
This Lullaby is a standout in the list of books by Sarah Dessen in order because it perfects the Dessen romance formula while tackling mature themes of parental influence and emotional armor.
Complex Protagonist: Remy is one of Dessen’s most cynical and guarded characters, making her eventual growth incredibly satisfying.
Memorable Romance: The dynamic between the pragmatic Remy and the idealistic Dexter is a fan-favorite, showcasing Dessen's skill at writing compelling relationships.
Thematic Depth: The story masterfully explores how a parent’s romantic history can profoundly shape a child’s view of love and commitment.
This book is often recommended as a top-tier Dessen novel for its sharp wit, emotional depth, and unforgettable characters, making it a crucial stop in any chronological reading. Explore more about the author's journey and her compelling stories.
6. The Truth About Forever — 2004
Often cited as a fan favorite, The Truth About Forever is a powerful story about grief, control, and the messy, beautiful process of healing. The protagonist, Macy, is coping with the sudden death of her father. In response, she strives for perfection, maintaining a seemingly flawless relationship with her brainy boyfriend and working a boring library job to keep her life orderly and predictable.
Core Themes and Character Arcs
The novel delves into the aftermath of trauma and the different ways people cope with loss. When Macy impulsively takes a job with a chaotic catering company, she meets Wes and his vibrant, imperfect coworkers. This new environment forces her to confront the sterile life she has built. Her journey is about learning to let go of control, embrace spontaneity, and accept that life is unpredictable. Wes, with his own history of loss, helps her understand that being okay doesn't mean forgetting the past but finding a way to live with it.
Why It's a Foundational Read
This novel is a cornerstone in the list of Sarah Dessen’s books in order for its emotional depth and exploration of healing. It represents a maturation in Dessen’s themes, tackling profound grief with nuance and hope.
Healing from Trauma: The book offers a sensitive and realistic portrayal of a teenager grappling with PTSD and the pressure to appear "fine."
Authentic Relationships: It contrasts Macy’s restrictive, idealized relationship with the honest, supportive connection she builds with Wes.
Found Family: The dynamic at Wish Catering introduces the powerful theme of finding a sense of belonging and family in unexpected places.
The Truth About Forever is celebrated for its rich character development and heartfelt message that it's okay to be imperfect and that true strength is found in vulnerability.
7. Just Listen — 2006
In Just Listen, Sarah Dessen tackles difficult subjects with her characteristic grace and emotional depth. The story follows Annabel Greene, a girl who seems to have the perfect life as a model but is silently crumbling under the weight of a traumatic event she's too scared to talk about. After a fallout with her best friend, she finds an unlikely ally in the intense, music-obsessed loner Owen Armstrong, who is committed to brutal honesty.
Core Themes and Character Arcs
The novel is a powerful exploration of the importance of speaking one's truth and the difference between perception and reality. Annabel’s journey is about finding her voice after being silenced by trauma and social pressure. Owen's influence helps her understand that being honest, especially with herself, is the first step toward healing. The book also delves into complex family dynamics, as Annabel navigates her sister's eating disorder and her mother's focus on maintaining a perfect image.
Why It's a Foundational Read
Just Listen is often cited as a fan favorite because of its mature themes and compelling character development, making it a pivotal entry in the list of books by Sarah Dessen in order.
Tackling Tough Topics: The book addresses sexual assault, eating disorders, and social isolation with sensitivity and realism, offering a story of survival and recovery.
The Power of Truth: Owen’s philosophy of always being honest serves as the novel's moral compass, pushing Annabel toward confronting her past.
Authentic Friendships: The relationship between Annabel and Owen highlights the healing power of connecting with someone who sees and accepts you for who you truly are.
This novel showcases Dessen's ability to handle serious issues while still delivering a hopeful and character-driven story. It is a must-read for understanding the depth of her young adult narratives. You can find more discussions about how authors structure such impactful stories by exploring the importance of following books in series order.
8. Along for the Ride — 2009
In the eighth installment of Sarah Dessen’s books in order, Along for the Ride explores the world of insomniac Auden West. The summer before college, she decides to leave her academic mother’s home to stay with her father and his new family in the charming beach town of Colby. Feeling like an outsider who missed out on a typical childhood, Auden spends her nights exploring the quiet town, where she meets the enigmatic and fellow insomniac, Eli.
Core Themes and Character Arcs
The novel delves into themes of second chances, self-discovery, and the importance of letting go of preconceived notions about life. Auden’s journey is about learning to embrace spontaneity and the messiness of human connection. Through late-night bike rides with Eli, a new job at a local boutique, and navigating a blended family, she completes a "quest" to experience the simple, fun parts of being a kid that she never allowed herself to have. Eli's arc complements hers, as he too must confront a past tragedy to move forward.
Why It's a Fan Favorite
Along for the Ride is celebrated for its poignant depiction of finding oneself when you least expect it. It perfectly captures the magic of summer nights and the freedom of new beginnings.
Finding Your Place: The story powerfully illustrates the feeling of being an outsider and the journey to building a community and a sense of belonging.
Balancing Romance and Growth: While the romance between Auden and Eli is central, the novel prioritizes Auden’s personal growth and her evolving family relationships.
Relatable Transitions: It expertly captures the anxiety and excitement of the summer before college, a pivotal moment of change for many young adults.
This book is a quintessential Dessen read, blending a sweet, slow-burn romance with a heartfelt story about learning to live life to the fullest. For readers who enjoy stories about personal transformation, this title is a must-read.
9. Lock and Key — 2008
In the ninth of Sarah Dessen’s books in order, Lock and Key delves into the heavy topics of neglect, abandonment, and the challenge of accepting help. The story follows seventeen-year-old Ruby, who is found living alone after her alcoholic mother disappears. She is sent to live with her estranged older sister, Cora, and her husband in their affluent home, a world away from the life she has always known.
Core Themes and Character Arcs
The novel is a profound exploration of what it means to build a home and a family from the ground up. Ruby’s primary struggle is learning to trust others and let go of her fierce, self-imposed independence, which has become a survival mechanism. Her relationship with the kind and persistent boy-next-door, Nate, as well as her slow-building bond with Cora, forces her to confront her deep-seated fears of being a burden and of being left behind again.
Why It’s a Powerful Read
Lock and Key stands out for its raw and honest depiction of healing from trauma, making it a pivotal book in Dessen's collection.
Found Family: The novel beautifully illustrates that family isn't just about blood relatives but about the people who show up and choose to care for you.
Vulnerability and Trust: Ruby’s journey from a closed-off, cynical teen to someone who can accept love and support is a central and compelling theme.
Socioeconomic Contrast: The story highlights the stark differences between poverty and privilege, exploring how circumstances shape a person's worldview and opportunities.
This book tackles darker, more complex issues than some of Dessen’s earlier works, offering a mature and moving narrative about resilience and the courage it takes to open your heart.
10. What Happened to Goodbye — 2011
In What Happened to Goodbye, Sarah Dessen explores the complex theme of identity through the story of Mclean Sweet. Since her parents’ messy divorce, Mclean and her father have moved four times in two years. With each new town, she adopts a new persona, from a preppy cheerleader to a dramatic artist, as a way to avoid forming genuine connections and dealing with her fractured family life. When she lands in Lakeview, she attempts to remain invisible but finds it difficult when she meets her new neighbors and a brilliant, kind-hearted boy named Dave.
Core Themes and Character Arcs
The novel delves deeply into the idea of finding your true self amidst chaos. Mclean’s journey is about shedding the protective layers she’s built and allowing people to see the real her. Her relationship with Dave encourages this transformation, as he sees past her various facades. The narrative also examines family reconciliation, as Mclean navigates her strained relationship with her mother and her mother’s new family.
Why It's a Compelling Read
This title is a standout for its introspective look at how we define ourselves. It remains a crucial part of the list of books by Sarah Dessen in order for its mature handling of identity.
Identity and Reinvention: The book powerfully illustrates the teenage struggle to figure out who you are, especially when your world is unstable.
The Meaning of Home: Dessen explores the concept that home isn't just a place but a feeling of belonging and acceptance.
Complex Family Relationships: The story offers a nuanced look at the aftermath of a high-profile divorce and the difficult path toward forgiveness and understanding.
What Happened to Goodbye is a thoughtful and emotionally resonant novel that asks readers to consider what happens when we stop running and finally face ourselves.
11. The Moon and More — 2013
In The Moon and More, Sarah Dessen returns to the familiar, beloved setting of Colby beach for a story about the summer that changes everything. The novel follows eighteen-year-old Emaline, who has her life seemingly mapped out. She has a dependable local boyfriend, a job at her family’s beach rental company, and plans for college just a short drive away. But the arrival of a New York film crew and its ambitious assistant, Theo, makes her question if the life she knows is the one she truly wants.
Core Themes and Character Arcs
The narrative delves into the classic conflict between comfort and ambition, exploring what it means to belong somewhere versus feeling trapped by it. Emaline’s journey is one of self-discovery as she navigates the pull of her hometown roots against the allure of a bigger world represented by Theo. Her relationships, particularly with her boyfriend Luke and her estranged father, force her to define her future on her own terms, rather than letting others define it for her.
Why It's a Thought-Provoking Read
The Moon and More stands out in the list of books by Sarah Dessen in order for its mature examination of post-high school choices and the complexities of first love.
Ambition vs. Comfort: The book thoughtfully explores the difficult decision between staying in a familiar, safe environment and pursuing dreams that require leaving it all behind.
Realistic Romance: Emaline's romantic entanglements are messy and uncertain, reflecting the reality of relationships in transition.
Finding Your Path: The central theme is Emaline’s struggle to forge her own identity and make choices that are right for her, even if they are difficult.
This novel offers a nuanced look at the pivotal summer before college, capturing the excitement and fear that come with standing on the cusp of adulthood.
12. Saint Anything — 2015
Returning to themes of family dysfunction and the search for belonging, Saint Anything offers a poignant look at what happens when a family member’s mistakes overshadow everything. The novel follows Sydney, whose charismatic older brother, Peyton, is in jail for a drunk-driving accident that paralyzed a teenage boy. Feeling invisible in her own home, Sydney transfers to a new school where she meets the warm and welcoming Chatham family, who own a local pizzeria.
Core Themes and Character Arcs
The narrative masterfully explores the concepts of guilt, forgiveness, and the ripple effects of a single bad decision. Sydney’s journey is one of finding her voice and learning that she is not defined by her brother's actions. Through her friendship with Layla and her growing feelings for Mac Chatham, Sydney discovers the power of a "found family" and the comfort of being seen for who she truly is, separate from her family’s crisis.
Why It's a Foundational Read
Saint Anything is a powerful entry in the list of books by Sarah Dessen in order, noted for its emotional depth and exploration of complex moral questions.
Found Family: The novel beautifully illustrates the idea that family is not just about blood relatives but also about the people who choose to support you.
Moral Complexity: Dessen navigates the difficult territory of loving someone who has done something terrible, avoiding easy answers.
Finding Your Voice: Sydney's transformation from a passive observer in her own life to an active participant is a central and inspiring theme.
This book resonates with readers for its honest portrayal of navigating family trauma and is a standout among popular YA book series for its mature and compassionate storytelling.
Sarah Dessen — 12 Books in Publication Order
| Title | Complexity (reading/subject) | Resource requirements (time & emotional) | Expected outcomes (reader takeaway) | Ideal use cases (who/when to read) | Key advantages |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| That Summer — 1996 | Moderate (family drama) | Short read; low–moderate emotional investment | Insight into family breakup and identity | Readers exploring parental divorce and coming‑of‑age | Debut establishing Dessen's signature family-focused voice |
| Someone Like You — 1998 | Moderate (ethical dilemmas) | Short; moderate emotional engagement | Nuanced view of teen friendship and pregnancy | Book clubs or discussions on teen pregnancy and loyalty | Realistic friendship portrayal; sensitive treatment of pregnancy |
| Keeping the Moon — 1999 | Light–Moderate (self-image) | Short, breezy; low emotional strain | Reflection on body image and self-acceptance | Readers seeking uplifting, beachy summer reads | Honest handling of body image; whimsical supporting characters |
| Dreamland — 2000 | High (dark themes) | Moderate to high emotional investment; triggers possible | Awareness of emotional abuse and addiction patterns | Mature YA readers; educational contexts on relationship abuse | Unflinching portrayal of abuse; realistic consequences |
| This Lullaby — 2002 | Moderate (romantic depth) | Short–moderate; emotionally engaging | Exploration of commitment and breaking family cycles | Fans of romantic YA with emotional depth | Strong romantic tension; complex, flawed protagonist |
| The Truth About Forever — 2004 | Moderate (trauma recovery) | Moderate time; medium emotional investment | Healing from trauma and personal liberation | Readers interested in recovery and found family arcs | Realistic trauma responses; empowering growth |
| Just Listen — 2006 | High (mature themes) | Moderate time; high emotional sensitivity required | Importance of speaking up and reclaiming voice | Mature YA readers; survivors and advocates | Sensitive handling of assault; strong message about truth-telling |
| Along for the Ride — 2009 | Light (coming-of-age) | Short, breezy; low emotional cost | Encouragement to embrace spontaneity and growth | Pre‑college readers; fans of gentle romance | Romantic, fun tone; relatable introverted protagonist |
| Lock and Key — 2008 | Moderate–High (neglect/healing) | Moderate time; emotionally involved | Trust-building and recovery from abandonment | Readers of family trauma and resilience stories | Powerful neglect recovery arc; strong found-family theme |
| What Happened to Goodbye — 2011 | Moderate (identity focus) | Accessible read; moderate reflection | Exploration of identity and authenticity | Teens who move often or reinvent themselves | Contemporary take on self-discovery; relatable premise |
| The Moon and More — 2013 | Moderate (choices/ambition) | Short–moderate; reflective reading | Decisions about ambition, belonging, and future | Readers facing college/career crossroads | Ambition-focused heroine; realistic small-town setting |
| Saint Anything — 2015 | High (family crisis) | Moderate time; significant emotional engagement | Redemption, community support, and moving forward | Readers of heavy family drama and social issues | Powerful ensemble cast; authentic portrayal of family crisis |
Crafting Your Sarah Dessen Reading Journey
Navigating the complete collection of books by Sarah Dessen in order is more than just checking titles off a list; it’s an immersive experience into a world that feels both familiar and deeply resonant. As we've journeyed through her bibliography from That Summer to Saint Anything, a clear picture emerges of an author who has masterfully captured the poignant, messy, and ultimately hopeful transition from adolescence to adulthood. Each novel, while a standalone story, contributes to a larger, interconnected universe where characters evolve, themes deepen, and the emotional landscape becomes richer with every page turned.
The primary takeaway from reading Dessen’s work chronologically is witnessing her growth as a storyteller. Her early novels lay the groundwork, exploring foundational themes of family dynamics, identity, and first love. As you move into her mid-career work like The Truth About Forever and Just Listen, you’ll notice a significant shift towards more complex characters grappling with grief, trauma, and the difficult process of self-acceptance. The later books then refine these ideas, presenting nuanced explorations of found family and the courage it takes to redefine your own narrative.
Your Personal Reading Roadmap
So, where do you begin? The beauty of Sarah Dessen’s work is its accessibility. There is no wrong door into her literary world, but charting a course can enhance the experience. Here are a few actionable paths you can take based on your reading preferences:
The Chronological Deep Dive: Start with That Summer (1996) and read through to her most recent publications. This is the ultimate path for readers who want to appreciate the subtle character crossovers and thematic evolution. You'll catch the small nods to Colby and Lakeview, see familiar names pop up, and gain a profound appreciation for the intricate world-building Dessen has accomplished over decades.
The Thematic Pairing: Are you drawn to specific topics? Group your reading to explore Dessen's handling of a particular theme.
For stories about grief and healing: Pair The Truth About Forever with Dreamland.
For powerful found-family arcs: Read Lock and Key followed by Saint Anything.
For narratives on identity and reinvention: Start with Keeping the Moon and then move to What Happened to Goodbye.
The "Greatest Hits" Approach: If you're new to Dessen and want to start with the books that are often considered fan favorites, begin with The Truth About Forever, Just Listen, or Along for the Ride. These novels are perfect entry points that showcase her signature blend of emotional depth, witty dialogue, and swoon-worthy romance.
Key Insight: The true magic of reading the books by Sarah Dessen in order isn’t just about following a timeline. It’s about recognizing the threads that connect them all: the importance of summer jobs, the solace found in unexpected friendships, and the quiet strength it takes to face your past and build a new future.
Making the Most of Your Dessen Experience
As you prepare to dive into these stories, consider how you can make the reading experience even more meaningful. Many readers find that setting aside a consistent time to read, such as before bed, can create a relaxing and immersive routine. If you're curious about how this habit can impact your rest, you might find it interesting to explore the benefits of reading before bed and how it can deepen your connection to the literary world.
Ultimately, whether you read one Sarah Dessen book or all of them, you are stepping into a universe crafted with immense care and empathy. Her stories remind us that perfection is a myth, that our flaws are part of our strength, and that a single summer can hold the power to change everything. This journey through her bibliography is a testament to the enduring power of young adult literature to capture the universal truths of growing up.
Ready to tackle another author's extensive library? For perfectly curated reading lists and series guides, visit Books In Order. We take the guesswork out of your reading journey, providing chronological and recommended orders for thousands of authors at Books In Order.
Tags: books by sarah dessen in order, sarah dessen books, ya contemporary, reading order, young adult authors