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61 pages 2 hours read

Sarah Dessen

Along for the Ride

Fiction | Novel | Published in 2009

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Before You Read

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Super Short Summary

In Sarah Dessen's Along for the Ride, academically accomplished and introverted teenager Auden West, who struggles with insomnia and the effects of her parents' divorce, spends her summer before college with her father, stepmother, and newborn half-sister in a small beach town, where she meets Eli, a fellow insomniac and professional biker, and embarks on a journey of personal growth, discovering friendship, love, and the importance of embracing new experiences. The book includes themes of parental neglect and the aftermath of a car accident involving a fatality.

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

Sarah Dessen's Along for the Ride is praised for its relatable characters and engaging storytelling. Reviewers appreciate the authentic exploration of personal growth and relationships. However, some critics point out predictable plot elements and wish for deeper character development. Overall, it's a heartwarming read with meaningful life lessons.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Along for the Ride?

Readers who enjoy Along for the Ride by Sarah Dessen are typically teens and young adults who appreciate contemporary romance with themes of self-discovery and personal growth. Fans of Jenny Han's To All the Boys I've Loved Before or Stephanie Perkins's Anna and the French Kiss would likely find this book engaging.

RecommendedReading Age

12-18years

Lexile Level

750L