While reading this book, It felt like I was walking through the halls with Melinda a writing accomplishment I hope to one day achieve. Freeman.Įven though this book was hard to read because it alludes to many graphic topics that are unsettling to some, I felt this book was not only educational but best portrays an accurate highschool environment. The one person that tries to emotionally support Melinda is her art teacher, Mr. The only action they take is overwhelming Melinda with unattainable expectations. Instead they focus on material aspects like her physical appearance and blame her for insufficient grades. Her parents ignore her and the emotional help she needs. Melinda routinely roams the hall with fear, trying to avoid the cold stares of her old friends. The reason why isn’t revealed by the author until nearly the end of the book. Melinda clearly struggles with depression and disordered thoughts. The novel is in the first person, making it significantly more personal. Within her high school, thirteen year old Melinda Sordino struggles both socially and academically, with a constant wave of sadness over her. Through main character, Melinda, Laurie Halse Anderson illustrates character growth in light of sexual assault.

“Speak” is the story of a highschool student faced with constant struggle and discernment. The main character’s growth throughout the novel is paralleled with her artistic improvement in her art class. The cover of Laurie Halse Anderson’s book “Speak”.

Speak novel by laurie halse anderson