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

This is definitely a 5 star book for adolescents (age 14+), and a 3 book for me. The writing is very good as it deals with all the universal angst of high school, with bullying, and with rape in a tasteful manner. The novel is written in first person, almost like a diary, but the voice seemed more like that of a 17 year old than of the 14 year old main character. There is resolution and the end when it seems everything is going to be okay, but for me it seemed rushed and was not a plausible ending. That being said, I would not hesitate to recommend it to young readers, It has won several literary awards and I am glad to see it is being taught in some schools.
quotes:
“When people don't express themselves, they die one piece at a time.”
“Sometimes I think high school is one long hazy activity: if you are tough enough to survive this, they'll let you become an adult. I hope it's worth it.”
“THE FIRST TEN LIES THEY TELL YOU IN HIGH SCHOOL
1. We are here to help you.
2. You will have 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 you in mind.
9. Your locker combination is private.
10. These will be the years you look back on fondly. "

View all my reviews