Speak follows Melinda Sordino, a freshman in high school, who has been deserted by her old friends. Her school already has distinct groups, so she’s out-casted when her friend group leaves her for the dust. The book is almost a diary-like perspective and follows her increasing isolation throughout her first year at high school. But despite Melinda’s silence as she navigates high school, she finds art as a form of speech. She is able to convey what she won’t verbalize through art. Her newfound interest in art begins a journey of healing after what she experienced prior to high school. Yet her problem is not completely over, and she must find the courage to face it head on.
I wasn’t expecting to relate to Melinda as much as I did, but I believe many others in high school would relate to her as well. The pressure of high school cliques and popularity prevents people from speaking about their experiences head on. Many people choose to conform and ignore their discomfort within their friend group in fear of having no friends. I would recommend this book because of this relatability with high schools today and students worldwide. Although, I will admit that this book could be difficult to get through or considered boring to some. Its gloomy and depressive aspect may not be what you like, but the book was a very quick read and its short entry-like sections (doesn’t have chapters) made me feel as if I was reading faster than I actually was. So if you want a short book with an amazing message, this is the book for you.
-Anonymous
