Along for the Ride

Book (2022)

by Sarah Dessen

Soon to be a Netflix film!

From the award-winning and New York Times bestselling author of Once and For All


Nights have always been Auden’s time, her chance to escape everything that’s going on around her.

Then she meets Eli, a fellow insomniac, and he becomes her nocturnal tour guide.

Now, with an endless supply of summer nights between them, almost anything can happen. . . .

“As with all Dessen’s books, [this] is a must-have” —VOYA, starred review

Sarah Dessen is the winner of the Margaret A. Edwards Award for her contributions to YA literature, as well as the Romantic Times Career Achievement Award.

Books by Sarah Dessen:
That Summer
Someone Like You
Keeping the Moon
Dreamland
This Lullaby
The Truth About Forever
Just Listen
Lock and Key
Along for the Ride
What Happened to Goodbye
The Moon and More
Saint Anything

Once and for All
Young Adult Fiction / Romance / General
Young Adult Fiction / Social Themes / Friendship
Young Adult Fiction / Family / Marriage & Divorce
432 pages
Jump to family guidance

Family guidance

Ages 13+

This film focuses on adolescent romantic development, identity exploration, and emotional maturation. It is appropriate for teens navigating similar transitions into young adulthood.

Every child is different. Use this guide alongside what you know about yours.

What to know before you start

Content details to help you decide what fits your child.

Sex & Nudity

2/5

The film features typical teenage romantic tension, including scenes of kissing and characters dating. There is no explicit content, but the focus on young relationships is a central part of the story.

Violence & Gore

0/5

There is no physical violence or gore in this movie. The conflict is purely emotional and related to character growth and family dynamics.

Profanity

2/5

Language is generally mild and reflects realistic teen conversation, including occasional uses of h*ll, cr*p, and s*cks used in casual social settings.

Alcohol, Drugs & Smoking

2/5

There are brief scenes depicting social drinking at parties or adult gatherings. Substance use is incidental to the plot rather than a focus.

Frightening Scenes

1/5

The film contains some emotional intensity as the main character navigates family tensions and personal anxiety. There are no traditional scary or frightening sequences.

Key Insights

Quick summary and important considerations

A thoughtful story about two teens connecting during late-night adventures while they learn more about themselves and each other.

Detailed Analysis

In-depth insights for parents and educators

What Parents Need to Know

The content centers on teen romance and nocturnal lifestyle habits. It is a character-driven drama without explicit violence or intense action.

What Kids Can Learn

Teens can observe how intentional self-care and open dialogue contribute to emotional resilience.

Key Topics Discussed

Identity
Friendship
Transitions

Why Parents Might Like It

It offers a realistic, grounded look at the anxieties and joys of the teenage experience through a relatable, literary lens.

Positives & learning

Positive messages

4/5

The narrative emphasizes the value of stepping outside one's comfort zone, the importance of self-discovery, and the healing power of forming genuine, supportive connections.

Role models

4/5

The protagonists exhibit self-reflection and emotional vulnerability, demonstrating healthy communication and personal accountability throughout their journey.

Representation

2/5

No specific information regarding identity-based diversity is present in the source material beyond general character archetypes.

Learning

2/5

Provides opportunities for discussing social-emotional skills, specifically managing stress and the complexities of teenage friendship.

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