One-line Summary:

“This Lullaby” is a heartwarming coming-of-age novel that explores love, loss, and the complexities of relationships through the eyes of a young woman named Remy.

Discovering Love and Letting Go

In “This Lullaby” by Sarah Dessen, we follow the journey of Remy, a pragmatic and guarded teenager who has witnessed her mother’s multiple failed marriages. Remy has developed a cynical view of love and relationships, vowing never to fall into the same pattern. However, when she meets Dexter, a charming and free-spirited musician, her carefully constructed walls begin to crumble.

As Remy and Dexter’s relationship blossoms, Remy finds herself torn between her desire for independence and her growing affection for him. She grapples with the fear of getting hurt and the uncertainty of whether love is worth the risk. Through their ups and downs, Remy learns valuable lessons about trust, vulnerability, and the importance of embracing the unpredictable nature of love.

The Power of Friendship and Family

While the central focus of the story revolves around Remy and Dexter’s romance, “This Lullaby” also delves into the significance of friendship and family. Remy’s close-knit group of friends, including Chloe, Lissa, and Jess, provide a support system that helps her navigate the complexities of her emotions. They offer advice, lend an ear, and remind her of the importance of loyalty and connection.

Remy’s relationship with her mother, a free-spirited author named Barbara Starr, is also explored throughout the novel. Despite her mother’s unconventional approach to life and love, Remy struggles to understand her choices and longs for a stable and reliable parental figure. Through their interactions, Remy learns to accept her mother’s flaws and appreciate the unique bond they share.

Themes of Self-Discovery and Acceptance

“This Lullaby” delves into themes of self-discovery and acceptance as Remy confronts her own fears and insecurities. As she navigates her relationships and confronts her past, Remy begins to question her own beliefs and the walls she has built around her heart. She learns that sometimes the most significant growth comes from embracing vulnerability and allowing oneself to be open to love and new experiences.

Throughout the novel, Remy also grapples with the idea of accepting imperfections, both in herself and in others. She learns that nobody is perfect, and that love and relationships require acceptance of flaws and forgiveness. Remy’s journey serves as a reminder that true happiness comes from embracing the messy and imperfect aspects of life.

Key Takeaways:

• Love is unpredictable and often requires vulnerability and risk-taking.
• Friendship and family provide essential support and guidance in navigating relationships.
• Self-discovery and acceptance are crucial for personal growth and finding happiness.

“You have to kiss a lot of frogs before you find your prince.”

In “This Lullaby,” Sarah Dessen crafts a heartfelt story that explores the complexities of love, friendship, and self-discovery. Through Remy’s journey, readers are reminded of the importance of embracing vulnerability, accepting imperfections, and finding joy in the unpredictable nature of life and relationships.