Laurie Halse Anderson's Speak is praised for its raw and powerful narrative, tackling themes of trauma and resilience through the protagonist's journey. Critics commend its authentic teen voice and emotional depth. Some find the subject matter heavy, yet essential. Its handling of sensitive issues garners both acclaim and discomfort.

A reader who would enjoy Speak by Laurie Halse Anderson is likely a young adult or teenager who appreciates strong, emotional narratives about personal growth and resilience. Fans of The Perks of Being a Wallflower and Thirteen Reasons Why would find similar thematic elements and relatable, poignant characters.

In Speak by Laurie Halse Anderson, Melinda, a teenager who starts her first year at Merryweather High School, grapples with the trauma of being raped at a summer party by a senior named Andy Evans. Isolated and unable to speak about her experience, she finds solace in art class under the guidance of Mr. Freeman. Through creating art and confronting her pain, Melinda gradually finds her voice and begins her journey toward healing.

Dark / Emotional / Challenging / Melancholic / Contemplative

- Speak was a finalist for the National Book Award in 1999, recognizing its impact and significance in young adult literature.
- The novel was adapted into a film in 2004, featuring Kristen Stewart in one of her early lead roles.
- Laurie Halse Anderson's inspiration for Speak came partly from her personal experiences and the challenges of addressing difficult topics in a sensitive manner.

**Melinda**  
The protagonist and narrator who starts ninth grade grappling with profound personal trauma and isolation, using her artistic pursuits as a path to healing and self-discovery.

**Melinda’s Parents**  
Her distant and strained relationship with both her mother and father highlights her isolation, with communication primarily through terse interactions and notes.

**Mr. Freeman**  
The art teacher who plays a crucial role in encouraging Melinda to express herself and heal through art, fostering a safe and understanding environment in his classroom.

**Heather**  
A newcomer at school who initially befriends Melinda but is more focused on climbing the social ladder and maintaining her standing with a popular group.

**Rachel**  
Once Melinda's best friend, she is now a popular student who distances herself from Melinda, illustrating the challenges of peer relationships and social dynamics.

**David Petrakis**  
A classmate known for his intellect and integrity, who becomes a source of inspiration for Melinda through his assertive stand for his rights in the classroom.

**Mr. Neck**  
The social studies teacher known for his aggressive and prejudiced behavior, becoming a symbol of authority Melinda eventually confronts.

**Andy Evans**  
A senior whose interactions with Melinda are characterized by predatory behavior and intimidation, representing a significant source of her ongoing struggles.

Laurie Halse Anderson

Novel

Fiction

Guide

Study Guide

Teaching Guide

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Overview

Get ready to explore Speak and its meaning. Our full analysis and study guide provides an even deeper dive with character analysis and quotes explained to help you discover the complexity and beauty of this book.

Speak Summary and Study Guide

Background

Speak Background

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Part 1: “First Marking Period”

Part 1, Chapters 1-21

Speak Part 1, Chapters 1-21 Summary & Analysis

Part 2, Chapters 22-44

Speak Part 2, Chapters 22-44 Summary & Analysis

Part 3, Chapters 45-63

Speak Part 3, Chapters 45-63 Summary & Analysis

Part 4, Chapters 64-89

Speak Part 4, Chapters 64-89 Summary & Analysis

character

Character Analysis

Speak Character Analysis

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Themes

Speak Themes

Symbols & Motifs

Speak Symbols & Motifs

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Important Quotes

Speak Important Quotes

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Essay Topics

Speak Essay Topics

Introduction

Speak Teacher Introduction

Before Reading

Speak Before Reading

During Reading

Speak During Reading

After Reading

Speak After Reading

Speak

Before You Read

Reviews & Readership

Review Roundup

Who Should Read Speak?

Reading Age

Book Details