I'm 12, and I really loved the book. Although some parts may be iffy for some kids, and it is definitely not appropriate for immature preteens, and kids younger than that. But I LOVED it!! but, there are: sex related subjects, drugs, and language.
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Lock and Key
(2008, Fiction - Coming of Age, Written by Sarah Dessen)
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Is it age appropriate?
About our ratings(Flash is loading. If this text does not disappear you need to install the latest flash version)
Not age appropriate for kids under 13, age appropriate for kids over 15; suggested age 13. -
Is it any good?
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Common Sense says
Dessen unlocks another angsty teen bestseller.
Why We Rated This 
for Ages 13–15
The good stuff
What to watch out for
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Violence:
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Sex:
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Language:
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Consumerism:
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Drinking, drugs, & smoking:
What Parents Need to Know
About Lock and Key
Parents need to know that teen characters in the book deal with physical and mental abuse by their parents, but it's not sensationalized and the focus is on the psychological after-effects. Teens' coping strategies include drug and alcohol use and running away. The importance of family and friends is strongly emphasized.
Read our full review by Stephanie Dunnewind
Families Can Talk About
- Families can talk about the theme of family as presented in this book, including an assignment where Ruby has to interview people about what the word "family" means to them. What definitions in the book do you agree with, or do you have a better definition? They can also discuss how friends can respond when a peer seems to need help but won't accept it.
Our Members Say
See all 14 member reviews
Most Recent Reviews
- I rate this title on for age 14 and give it
- I rate this title on for age 12 and give it
- My highlights are:
- Educational
- Good role models
Love this book!!
Love this book it's on of her best work!It has everything i love in a book! not the rude bits like but!
- I rate this title on for age 12 and give it
- My highlights are:
- Good role models
Love the way she Writes her books
I love Shara Dessens books. She writes them like the main character would be telling them and i find them very down to earth. Lock and Key is a great story and tells how someone might cope with their mother leaving them. I think Ruby relates to Nate and Find them a great match. I absolutely love this book.
- I rate this title on for age 12 and give it
- My highlights are:
- Good role models
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