Lock and Key

by Sarah Dessen • 2008 • 432 pages

3.99

151.7K ratings

Young Adult Romance Contemporary

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Plot Summary

New Beginnings, Unfamiliar Surroundings

Ruby's new life begins unexpectedly

Ruby Cooper's life takes a dramatic turn when her mother abandons her, forcing her to move in with her estranged sister, Cora, and her husband, Jamie. Their suburban home is a world apart from the chaos Ruby is accustomed to. As she navigates this new environment, Ruby is introduced to stability and comfort, yet she remains guarded, unsure of her place in this family. Jamie's welcoming nature contrasts with Cora's reserved demeanor, highlighting the sisters' strained relationship and the challenges of reconnecting after years apart.

Secrets and Family Ties

Family secrets begin to unravel

Settling into her new life, Ruby grapples with complex emotions tied to her family history. Cora and Jamie's efforts to integrate Ruby into their lives are met with resistance, as Ruby is haunted by memories of her mother and the life she left behind. The sisters' relationship is further complicated by secrets and misunderstandings that have kept them apart. Ruby's struggle to reconcile her past with her present is central, as she learns more about Cora's life and the choices that led them to this point.

The Unexpected Visitor

A surprise visit stirs emotions

Ruby's past collides with her present when her friend Peyton unexpectedly visits, bringing chaos and reminders of the life Ruby is trying to leave behind. Peyton's presence highlights the stark differences between Ruby's old and new worlds, forcing Ruby to confront her feelings about her current situation. The visit also brings to light the tension between Ruby and Cora, as Cora's protective instincts clash with Ruby's desire for independence. This encounter serves as a catalyst for Ruby to reevaluate her relationships and her place in her new family.

Adjusting to New Norms

Ruby navigates her new reality

As Ruby continues to adjust to life with Cora and Jamie, she begins to find her footing at her new school, Perkins Day. Despite her initial reluctance, Ruby starts to form connections with her classmates, including the charming Nate. These interactions challenge Ruby's preconceived notions about friendship and trust, as she learns to open up to new relationships. Meanwhile, Ruby's job at a local jewelry kiosk provides her with a sense of independence and purpose, even as she struggles to balance work and school.

Unraveling the Past

Confronting the truth about her family

Ruby's understanding of her family history is turned upside down when Cora reveals the lengths she went to in order to find Ruby after their mother's disappearance. This revelation forces Ruby to question everything she thought she knew about her past and her mother's motivations. As Ruby grapples with these new truths, she must decide whether to let go of her anger and resentment or continue to hold onto the pain of the past. This pivotal moment marks a turning point in Ruby's journey toward healing and acceptance.

Finding Connections

Building new relationships and understanding

As Ruby begins to let down her guard, she forms unexpected connections with those around her. Her friendship with Nate deepens, offering her a glimpse of what it means to trust and rely on someone else. At the same time, Ruby's relationship with Cora evolves as they work through their shared history and misunderstandings. Through these experiences, Ruby learns the value of family, both the one she was born into and the one she is creating for herself. This newfound understanding helps Ruby to embrace her new life and the possibilities it holds.

Confronting the Past, Embracing Change

Ruby learns about her mother's fate

Ruby discovers her mother is in rehab after being found unconscious in a hotel. This revelation forces Ruby to confront her feelings about her mother and the life she left behind. Despite the uncertainty, Ruby finds solace in the stability of her life with Cora and Jamie. She grapples with the idea of family and what it means to her, realizing that her new life offers opportunities for growth and healing. Ruby's journey is marked by her struggle to reconcile her past with her present, as she learns to embrace change and the possibility of a brighter future.

The Unexpected Goodbye

Nate's departure and new beginnings

Nate's situation with his father reaches a breaking point, leading him to leave for Arizona to live with his mother. Ruby supports him through this transition, understanding the need for him to find a safer environment. Their goodbye is bittersweet, as Ruby gives Nate her key to the yellow house, symbolizing trust and the hope of future reconnection. This moment marks a turning point for Ruby, as she learns to let go and trust in the bonds she has formed, even as they change and evolve.

Family and New Beginnings

Cora's pregnancy and Ruby's acceptance

Cora discovers she is pregnant, bringing a mix of emotions to the household. Ruby reflects on the concept of family, realizing that it is ever-changing and not limited to blood relations. As she prepares for her graduation, Ruby embraces the idea of new beginnings, both for herself and her family. This chapter highlights the importance of acceptance and the willingness to adapt to life's changes, as Ruby finds strength in the support of those around her.

The Power of Friendship

Olivia and Ruby's evolving relationship

Ruby's friendship with Olivia deepens as they navigate the challenges of their senior year. Olivia's support during Ruby's struggles with calculus and her encouragement to face her fears demonstrate the power of friendship. Ruby learns that true friends are those who stand by you, even when things get tough. This chapter emphasizes the importance of building connections and the impact they can have on personal growth and resilience.

Rediscovering Connections

Ruby's journey to self-discovery

As Ruby prepares for her future, she reflects on the relationships that have shaped her. Her interactions with Harriet, Reggie, and Gervais highlight the diverse connections she has formed and the lessons she has learned from each. Ruby's journey is one of self-discovery, as she learns to value the people in her life and the experiences that have brought her to this point. This chapter underscores the significance of understanding oneself and the role others play in that journey.

Moving Forward, Letting Go

Graduation and the promise of the future

Ruby graduates from high school, marking the end of one chapter and the beginning of another. As she stands by the pond, she lets go of the key to the yellow house, symbolizing her readiness to move forward. Ruby's acceptance to the U represents a new beginning, filled with possibilities and the promise of a brighter future. This chapter captures the essence of growth, as Ruby learns to let go of the past and embrace the opportunities that lie ahead.

Characters

Ruby Cooper

Resilient and evolving protagonist

Ruby is a high school senior who has faced numerous challenges, including her mother's abandonment and adjusting to life with her sister, Cora. Throughout the story, Ruby learns to open up to new relationships and redefine what family means to her. Her journey is one of self-discovery, as she navigates the complexities of her past and embraces the possibilities of her future.

Cora Hunter

Supportive and nurturing sister

Cora is Ruby's older sister, who provides stability and support after their mother's disappearance. Her pregnancy brings new challenges and emotions, but also strengthens the bond between her and Ruby. Cora's journey is one of acceptance and growth, as she learns to embrace the changes in her life and the expanding definition of family.

Jamie Hunter

Optimistic and loving brother-in-law

Jamie is Cora's husband, who welcomes Ruby into their home with open arms. His positive outlook and unwavering support help Ruby adjust to her new life. Jamie's belief in the importance of family and tradition provides a sense of stability and belonging for Ruby, as she navigates the complexities of her past and present.

Nate Cross

Caring and conflicted friend

Nate is Ruby's neighbor and friend, who becomes a significant part of her journey. Despite his own struggles with an abusive father, Nate is a source of support for Ruby. His departure to Arizona marks a turning point in their relationship, as both learn to let go and trust in the bonds they have formed. Nate's story highlights the importance of seeking help and finding a safe environment.

Peyton

Loyal but troubled friend

Peyton is Ruby's friend from her old life, who unexpectedly visits her at Cora's house. She represents the chaos and instability of Ruby's past, as well as the loyalty and connection Ruby still feels to her old life. Peyton's visit forces Ruby to confront her feelings about her current situation and the changes she is experiencing.

Harriet

Creative and independent employer

Harriet is the owner of the jewelry kiosk where Ruby works. Her journey from a cautious businesswoman to a successful entrepreneur mirrors Ruby's own growth and self-discovery. Harriet's interactions with Ruby and Reggie highlight the importance of taking risks and embracing change, both in business and in personal relationships.

Olivia

Loyal and understanding friend

Olivia is Ruby's friend from school, who offers support and encouragement throughout their senior year. Her friendship with Ruby highlights the importance of building connections and the impact they can have on personal growth. Olivia's presence in Ruby's life is a reminder of the power of friendship and the strength it can provide in times of need.

Plot Devices

Family and Identity

Exploring the complexities of family

The concept of family is central to Ruby's journey, as she navigates her relationships with Cora, Jamie, and her absent mother. The story explores the idea that family is not just about blood relations but also about the connections we choose to make. Ruby's evolving understanding of family and identity is a key plot device, driving her growth and development throughout the narrative.

Secrets and Revelations

Uncovering hidden truths

The story is propelled by the secrets and revelations that emerge as Ruby learns more about her family's past. These revelations challenge Ruby's understanding of her history and force her to reevaluate her relationships with Cora and her mother. The uncovering of these secrets serves as a catalyst for Ruby's transformation and her journey toward acceptance and healing.

Friendship and Trust

Building new connections

Ruby's interactions with her classmates, particularly Nate, highlight the importance of friendship and trust in her journey. These relationships challenge Ruby's guarded nature and encourage her to open up to new possibilities. The theme of friendship and trust is a significant plot device, illustrating Ruby's growth and her ability to form meaningful connections with others.

Analysis

Themes of growth and acceptance

"Lock and Key" by Sarah Dessen is a poignant exploration of family, identity, and the power of human connections. Through Ruby's journey, the novel delves into the complexities of familial relationships and the impact of past traumas on personal growth. The story emphasizes the importance of accepting change and embracing new beginnings, as Ruby learns to redefine her understanding of family and trust. Dessen's narrative highlights the resilience of the human spirit and the transformative power of love and friendship, offering readers a hopeful message about the possibilities of healing and self-discovery.

Last updated: February 3, 2025

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FAQ

Synopsis & Basic Details

What is Lock and Key about?

Abandoned teen finds family : Lock and Key follows Ruby Cooper, a high school senior, who is abandoned by her alcoholic mother and forced to live with her estranged sister, Cora, and her husband, Jamie.
Navigating new life : The story explores Ruby's journey as she adjusts to a stable, suburban life, a stark contrast to her previous chaotic existence, while grappling with her past and forming new relationships.
Themes of family and identity: The novel delves into themes of family, identity, trust, and the challenges of letting go of the past while embracing new beginnings.

Why should I read Lock and Key?

Emotional depth and realism : Sarah Dessen masterfully portrays the complex emotions of a teenager dealing with abandonment, offering a realistic and emotionally resonant narrative.
Character-driven story : The novel focuses on character development, exploring the motivations and inner struggles of Ruby, Cora, and Jamie, making them relatable and compelling.
Exploration of family dynamics : Lock and Key provides a nuanced look at the complexities of family relationships, highlighting the challenges of reconnecting after years of separation and the different forms family can take.

What is the background of Lock and Key?

Contemporary suburban setting : The story is set in a modern suburban environment, contrasting the stability of Cora and Jamie's life with Ruby's previous transient existence.
Focus on personal relationships : The novel primarily focuses on the personal relationships and emotional journeys of the characters, rather than historical or political events.
Exploration of social issues : While not the primary focus, the novel touches on issues such as alcoholism, child abandonment, and the challenges faced by teenagers in unstable family situations.

What are the most memorable quotes in Lock and Key?

"It's never something huge that changes everything, but instead the tiniest of details, irrevocably tweaking the balance of the universe while you're busy focusing on the big picture." : This quote highlights the theme of subtle changes and their profound impact on life.
"You can't teach an old dog new tricks." : This recurring phrase, often used in reference to Roscoe, also reflects the characters' struggles with change and adaptation.
"It's like things that were lost could be found again." : This quote encapsulates the theme of hope and the possibility of finding what was lost, both literally and metaphorically.

What writing style, narrative choices, and literary techniques does Sarah Dessen use?

First-person perspective : The story is told from Ruby's point of view, allowing readers to intimately experience her thoughts, feelings, and perceptions of the world around her.
Realistic dialogue : Dessen's use of realistic dialogue makes the characters relatable and authentic, capturing the nuances of teenage speech and interactions.
Subtle symbolism and foreshadowing : The novel employs subtle symbolism, such as the key necklace, and foreshadowing to enhance the themes and create a sense of depth and complexity.

Hidden Details & Subtle Connections

What are some minor details that add significant meaning?

The key necklace : Ruby's key necklace, initially a symbol of her past and what she's left behind, evolves to represent her connection to her family and her journey of self-discovery.
Roscoe's anxiety : Roscoe's fear of the oven and other household appliances mirrors Ruby's own anxiety and discomfort with her new, unfamiliar environment.
The UMe.com references : Jamie's ownership of UMe.com, a social networking site, subtly highlights the theme of connection and the different ways people seek it.

What are some subtle foreshadowing and callbacks?

The mention of the pond : Jamie's initial description of the pond foreshadows its significance as a place of reflection and change for Ruby.
The recurring image of the key : The key, both as a physical object and a symbol, is a recurring motif that foreshadows Ruby's journey of self-discovery and her eventual letting go of the past.
The mention of the carpool : The initial mention of the carpool with Nate foreshadows their developing relationship and the role he will play in Ruby's life.

What are some unexpected character connections?

Olivia and Ruby's shared past: The revelation that Olivia also attended Jackson High creates an unexpected bond between her and Ruby, highlighting their shared experiences and perspectives.
Harriet and Ruby's shared independence: The connection between Harriet and Ruby, both independent women, reveals a shared understanding of the challenges and rewards of self-reliance.
Jamie and Ruby's shared musicality: Jamie's love for music and his ability to play the guitar creates an unexpected connection with Ruby, who also has a deep appreciation for music.

Who are the most significant supporting characters?

Olivia Davis: Olivia's role as a fellow Jackson High survivor and a friend who challenges Ruby's perspectives is crucial to Ruby's growth and self-discovery.
Harriet: Harriet's character provides Ruby with a sense of independence and purpose, as well as a model of a woman who has built her own life and business.
Gervais Miller : Gervais, despite his initial annoying behavior, becomes a source of support and understanding for Ruby, highlighting the unexpected connections that can form.

Psychological, Emotional, & Relational Analysis

What are some unspoken motivations of the characters?

Cora's need for control: Cora's desire for order and control stems from her past experiences with chaos and instability, influencing her interactions with Ruby.
Jamie's desire for connection: Jamie's enthusiasm for family traditions and his efforts to make Ruby feel welcome stem from his own desire for connection and belonging.
Ruby's fear of vulnerability: Ruby's initial resistance to forming new relationships and accepting help stems from her fear of vulnerability and her past experiences with abandonment.

What psychological complexities do the characters exhibit?

Ruby's trauma and resilience: Ruby exhibits the psychological complexities of a teenager who has experienced trauma, including her guarded nature, her fear of vulnerability, and her struggle to trust others.
Cora's anxiety and control: Cora's anxiety and need for control are rooted in her past experiences with chaos and her desire to create a stable and secure environment for herself and her family.
Jamie's optimism and avoidance: Jamie's unwavering optimism and his tendency to avoid conflict stem from his desire to create a harmonious and loving environment, but also from his own discomfort with difficult emotions.

What are the major emotional turning points?

Ruby's discovery of her mother's location: The revelation that her mother is in rehab forces Ruby to confront her feelings about her mother and the life she left behind, marking a turning point in her emotional journey.
Nate's departure: Nate's departure to Arizona forces Ruby to confront her feelings for him and her fear of loss, leading to a deeper understanding of her own emotions.
Cora's pregnancy: Cora's pregnancy brings a mix of emotions to the household, forcing Ruby to reevaluate her understanding of family and her place within it.

How do relationship dynamics evolve?

Ruby and Cora's sisterhood: The relationship between Ruby and Cora evolves from one of estrangement and misunderstanding to one of mutual support and understanding, as they learn to navigate their shared history and build a new bond.
Ruby and Jamie's familial bond: Ruby's relationship with Jamie evolves from one of initial awkwardness to one of genuine affection and trust, as he becomes a source of stability and support in her life.
Ruby and Nate's friendship and trust: The relationship between Ruby and Nate evolves from a casual acquaintance to a deep friendship and romantic connection, as they learn to trust and rely on each other.

Interpretation & Debate

Which parts of the story remain ambiguous or open-ended?

Ruby's future with her mother: The novel leaves Ruby's future relationship with her mother open-ended, allowing readers to imagine the possibilities of reconciliation or continued estrangement.
The long-term impact of Nate's departure: The novel does not fully resolve the long-term impact of Nate's departure on Ruby's life, leaving readers to wonder about the future of their relationship.
The nature of family: The novel leaves the definition of family open to interpretation, highlighting the different forms it can take and the importance of individual choice in defining it.

What are some debatable, controversial scenes or moments in Lock and Key?

Ruby's initial resistance to help: Ruby's initial resistance to accepting help from Cora and Jamie can be seen as both a sign of her independence and a reflection of her past trauma.
Cora's controlling nature: Cora's controlling nature, while stemming from her desire to protect Ruby, can be seen as both a strength and a weakness, raising questions about the balance between care and control.
Nate's decision to leave: Nate's decision to leave for Arizona, while necessary for his own well-being, can be seen as both a sign of his strength and a reflection of his inability to fully trust others.

Lock and Key Ending Explained: How It Ends & What It Means

Ruby's acceptance of change: The ending of Lock and Key sees Ruby accepting the changes in her life, embracing her new family, and letting go of the past.
Symbolism of the key : Ruby's decision to drop the key into the pond symbolizes her readiness to move forward and embrace the future, leaving behind the physical and emotional baggage of her past.
Hope for the future : The ending offers a hopeful message about the possibility of healing and self-discovery, as Ruby finds strength in the connections she has formed and the new beginnings that lie ahead.