Speak

1.      BIBLIOGRAPHY

Anderson, Laurie Halse. 1999. SPEAK. New York: Penguin Putnam Books for Young Readers. ISBN 0-14-131088-X

2.      PLOT SUMMARY

After experiencing a traumatic event at the end of the summer, Melinda deals with it during her freshman year of high school by not speaking.

3.      CRITCAL ANALYSIS

Anderson’s powerful book deals with a sensitive topic—rape. It is surely one of every female’s greatest fears, and for Melinda to have had it happen to her at such a young age is even more devastating. And the way she deals with it is heartbreaking—she stops speaking.

Because 99.99% of the book involves no dialogue from her, we get to know her innermost thoughts that no one else is privy too, which perhaps brings her even closer to the reader. Anderson handles the topic very well, and provides readers with a unique look into the life of a victim of such a heinous crime, and gives us hope that even adversity such as this can be overcome.

4.      REVIEW EXCERPT(S)

Awards & Honors:

            Michal L. Printz Honor Book

National Book Award Finalist

Edgar Allan Poe Award Finalist

Los Angeles Times Book Prize Finalist

Winner of the SCBWI Golden Kite Award

ALA Top Ten Best Book for Young Adults

ALA Quick Pick

Publishers Weekly Best Book of the Year

Booklist Top Ten First Novel

BCCB Blue Ribbon Book

School Library Journal Best Book of the Year

Horn Book Fanfare Title

New York Times Bestseller

Publishers Weekly Bestseller

Review in SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL: “This is a compelling book, with sharp, crisp writing that draws readers in, engulfing them in the story.”

Review in PUBLISHER’S WEEKLY: “In a stunning first novel, Anderson uses keen observations and vivid imagery to pull readers into the head of an isolated teenager.”

Review in BOOK LIST: “sarcastic wit, honesty, and courage make her a memorable character whose ultimate triumph will inspire and empower readers.”

5.      CONNECTIONS

*Rape is a sensitive subject no matter what the age of the reader. Broach it gently and see what the group has to stay. You may be surprised at what you hear and learn from both the male and female perspective.

*Nonfiction books about this topic:

Mather, Cynthia L. How Long Does It Hurt: A Guide to Recovering from Incest and Sexual Abuse for Teenagers, Their Friends, and Their Families. ISBN 0787975699

*Other young adult novels by this author.

            Anderson, Laurie Halse. Catalyst. ISBN 0-6700-3566-1

            Anderson, Laurie Halse. Twisted. ISBN 0-6700-6101-8

            Anderson, Laurie Halse. Wintergirls. ISBN 9780670011100