Anderson, L. H. (1999). Speak. NY: Penguin.
Melinda is going into eighth grade, yet attends a high school party without her parents knowing. All of the kids are drinking and the senior, star quarterback, Andy, takes her into the woods are rapes her. He thinks rules and consequences don't apply to him. She tried to do the right thing be dialing 911, but she couldn't speak. Her best friend, Rachel, finds out she's on the phone with 911 and tells everyone that she is ratting them out to the police. She spends her entire freshman year as an outcast due to this event, except for a special bond that she developed with her art teacher, Mr. Freeman She never told anyone what happened until Rachel suddenly became interested in Andy. Melinda felt obligated to tell Rachel about Andy, but Rachel doesn't believe her and starts dating him. He taunts Melinda everyday, walking by her locker and rubbing her face. She was unfriended by everyone. Prom night, he tries to rape Rachel as well and she broke up with him. Melinda's special hiding place at school is the janitor's closet. Andy finds her there and tries to rape her again. She finally fights back and is able to tell him NO! People hear the fighting, and are able to witnesses to the event.
It is important for teenagers to know that there is always someone out there willing to help and listen during traumatic experiences. They should never feel like outcast. This book is recommended for teenagers facing similar struggles with rape, bullies, or depression. It is written in a manor that teenagers can easily relate and comprehend. A good realistic fiction novel about a high school finally finding her inner strength to speak!.
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