Speak
by Laurie Halse Anderson
“IT happened. There is no avoiding it, no forgetting. No running away, or flying, or burying, or hiding.”
HIGH SCHOOL ISN'T ALL FUN AND GAMES
Speak is a fiction novel written by Laurie Halse Anderson that shows the importance of speaking up for yourself through freshman outcast, Melinda Sordino. At a party over the summer, Melinda called the cops after being pulled into the woods and being raped by upperclassmen Andy Evans. She escaped the police, but kept quiet about what really happened that night. Going into high school can be tough, especially when you are blamed for ruining the best party of the year. Melinda starts skipping school, not talking to anyone, and self-harming. Melinda only has one escape, her art class. Will Melinda be able to speak up for herself or will she stay quiet hurting herself and others around her?
What are the 3 biggest components of Melinda's story?
Andy Evans
The jerk who raped Melinda, and who is unavoidable at school. He is always lurking around when you least expect him.
Rachel
Melinda's ex-best friend, who ditched her after she broke up the party. It doesn't help that Rachel and Andy are a "thing" now and Rachel won't listen to Melinda trying to help her.
Melinda's Art Teacher
Melinda's art teacher is the only person who understands. He works with Melinda and tries to push her a little past her comfort zone art work wise, but respects her when she chooses to be silent.
Suicide is the second leading cause of death in young adults aged 10-24. 4 out of every 5 teens that attempt suicide give clear warning signs before doing so.
"Speak is an amazing book that truly tells about the horrors of rape. It is a real eye opener, in that many people don't realize how scary rape or even high school can be for some teenagers. I would recommend this book to anyone over the age of 13 for it could be a little graphic for younger children." -Kristen Stewart
If you want to be sent on an emotional roller coaster that makes you want to reach out and help others around you, Speak is a great book for you.
Speak is a very powerful novel that is a great novel for teenagers and adults. Don't be the last to get a copy today at your local book store or online!
Laura Orr-7