Book Review: SPEAK by Laurie Halse Anderson

Bibliography

Anderson, Laurie Halse. SPEAK. New York: Square Fish, 1999. ISBN 0312674392.

Plot Summary

At the end of a summer party, Melinda Sordino calls the police, but leaves before telling them or anyone else what really happened. When school starts, Melinda is a freshman in high school, and everyone hates her for ruining the party. Melinda’s grades start slipping and she starts skipping classes. While Melinda struggles at school, her parents spend much of their time working and they communicate via sticky notes on the counter. Melinda becomes morose and silent. 

There is more to what happened at that summer party, but Melinda tries everything to not think or speak about it. Then her ex-best friend, Rachel, starts dating that boy, that boy Melinda doesn’t want to think about or speak about, the boy that filled her life with pain and shame. Melinda tries to warn Rachel, but Rachel doesn’t want to believe her. When Melinda is in jeopardy, she finds her voice again to save herself. With the truth now out, Melinda learns to let go of her shame and guilt, so that she can begin to heal.

Critical Analysis

The plot of SPEAK is an original and at times heartbreaking take on a very tough topic. The main character’s experiences and thoughts slowly build up to the climax and final revelation in a believable and authentic way. The story is written from the point of view of Melinda, a teenager that has gone through something traumatic. The details of her pain and guilt is gradually laid bare in her thoughts as she begins to understand that what happened to her was not her fault. The language and character development is believable and reflected the way the average teenage might think or speak, even though the book was published more than a decade ago.

Teen readers might feel that SPEAK is a truthful portrayal of the common reality of the spitefulness and peer pressure of high school. Readers might identify with much of what happens in this novel, no matter what their age. The tone of the story might reflect a need by the author to educate readers on identifying the signs of possible abuse. Anderson balances educating readers and telling the story of recovering emotionally and mentally from rape. Though some might consider the topic of rape and sexual assault controversial, SPEAK is still relevant and powerful for young adult readers.

Review Excerpt(s)

1999 National Book Award Finalist for Young People's Literature

From School Library Journal

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

Dina Sherman

From Booklist

“In her YA fiction debut, Anderson perfectly captures the harsh conformity of high-school cliques and one teen's struggle to find acceptance from her peers. Melinda's sarcastic wit, honesty, and courage make her a memorable character whose ultimate triumph will inspire and empower readers.” Debbie Carton

From Kirkus

“The plot is gripping and the characters are powerfully drawn, but it is its raw and unvarnished look at the dynamics of the high school experience that makes this a novel that will be hard for readers to forget.”

Book Connections

Other books by Laurie Halse Anderson:

CATALYST. ISBN 0142400017.

CHAINS. ISBN 1416905863.

WINTERGIRLS. ISBN 067001110X.

Activities for SPEAK:

• Have students watch the independent film based on the book and compare and contrast the book and film versions.
• Have students find and locate different resources that provide support and help for sexual assault victims. Discuss in small groups what each student could do to help someone like Melinda and then write individual essays on ways to help someone who has been sexually assaulted.