Speak - Laurie Halse Anderson

Speak by Laurie Halse Anderson

Bibliography: 

Anderson, L. H. (1999). Speak. Square Fish. 

Plot Summary: 

A traumatic event near the end of the summer has a devastating effect on Melinda's freshman year in high school.

Critical Analysis:

Speak by Laurie Halse Anderson is full of emotion. It is captivating yet devastating. I was overwhelmed by the honesty that was portrayed by Melinda through out. Laurie Halse Anderson did an incredible job of capturing Melinda’s feelings and describing the awkwardness of High School, being an outcast and feeling completely alone during the most desperate of times. This is a powerful YA novel about learning to accept the things you cannot change and finding the strength and power within to fight for yourself, no matter how difficult it may seem. 

Review Excerpt: 

Publisher’s Weekly (starred review)

In a stunning first novel, Anderson uses keen observations and vivid imagery to pull readers into the head of an isolated teenager. . . . Yet Anderson infuses the narrative with a wit that sustains the heroine through her pain and holds readers’ empathy. . . . But the book’s overall gritty realism and Melinda’s hard-won metamorphosis will leave readers touched and inspired.

Kirkus Review (starred review)

A frightening and sobering look at the cruelty and viciousness that pervade much of contemporary high school life, as real as today’s headlines. . . . The plot is gripping and the characters are powerfully drawn . . . a novel that will be hard for readers to forget.

School Library Journal 

Melinda’s pain is palpable, and readers will totally empathize with her. This is a compelling book, with sharp, crisp writing that draws readers in, engulfing them in the story.

Connections:

Meet the author interview - https://www.bookconnections.org/book_reading.cgi?id=2371

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Topics - Abuse, Gender Studies, and Women Studies

SEL Topics - Bullying, Relationship Skills, Internal Struggle, Overcoming Adversity