Saad's+Book+Rationale

__SPEAK by Laurie Halse Anderson__

Identity Crisis. Low Self-Esteem. Acceptance. Rejection. Rape. These are all issues that arise in Laurie Anderson’s novel, “Speak”. The novel centers around Melinda, a freshman thrown into the dark waters of high school and forced to come to terms with something that has changed her life forever. At first, readers only get a glimpse into what is haunting Melinda’s first year as a freshman. However, as the year progresses she must learn to face and speak about the single, most devastating thing that has silenced her. Anderson paints a dark reality for so many young readers that it becomes nearly impossible for the reader not to connect with her main character.

Though controversial, this novel can be read and taught in a very beneficial way. This novel is targeted toward a 9th or 10th grade reading level and should be taught with careful planning and respect for the major themes witnessed throughout the novel. “Speak” can become a model for the lives of many young students facing similar struggles, and also a way for other students to connect and show empathy for such a controversial topic. In teaching the novel, the teacher should draw parallels and encourage group discussion as a tool for association and growth.