Review: Speak by Laurie Halse Anderson

Speak by Laurie Halse Anderson is without a doubt one of the most powerful YA novels we have ever read.

“THE FIRST TEN LIES THEY TELL YOU IN HIGH SCHOOL
1. We are here to help you.
2. You will have enough time to get to your class before the bell rings.
3. The dress code will be enforced.
4. No smoking is allowed on school grounds.
5. Our football team will win the championship this year.
6. We expect more of you here.
7. Guidance counselors are always available to listen.
8. Your schedule was created with your needs in mind.
9. Your locker combination is private.
10. These will be the years you will look back on fondly. “

Speak up for yourself – we want to know what you have to say. From my first day at Merryweather High, I know this is a lie.Nobody will even talk to me, let alone listen – all because I called the cops on an end-of-summer party.But if I could only tell everyone why I called the police that night…If I could explain what happened to me…If I could speak…Then everything might change.

Speak does cover topics which some readers may find triggering. It is a story of sexual assault, the trauma associated with it and healing. It’s dark,in parts terrifying but we think it’s a novel that everyone should read at some point in their lives as it’s as relevant to society today as it was 20 years ago when it was first published. It is a compelling,raw and unflinchingly honest tale of learning to use your voice when you previously believed it did not matter. 

You can purchase a copy of Speak (the 20th Anniversary edition) here.

Have you read Speak? Let us know at @Fuzzable!