Speak by Laurie Halse Anderson (Review may contain triggers)

Speak by Laurie Halse Anderson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

4.0/5.0 - This review may contain triggers.

This was the 20th Anniversary Edition. This important YA book was first published in 1999, and according to The American Library Association, was one of the Top 100 Banned/Challenged Books between 2000 and 2009 due to the discussion of rape. It was an important resource in bringing the concept of consent to the forefront. It is a heartbreaking book to read, to put ourselves in Melinda's shoes, a young 13 year old at her first party, drinking her first beers, unable to stop what happens next. She calls the police, but runs away in fear and confusion and is then ostracized by all her peers. She loses her voice, and is voluntarily mute for most of the school year. Slowly, with the help of a few people, she decides to speak out.

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