Speak

by Laurie Halse Anderson
Speak cover
Good Books rating 4.17
Young Adult (YA)
Buy online
Waterstones
Paperback • £9.99–£12.99
Amazon
Format/Price Check
Technical
  • ID: 10009
  • Added: 2026-01-05
  • Updated: 2026-01-06
  • ISBN: 9781444954173
  • Publisher: Hachette UK
  • Published: 2019-08-22
  • Formats: 2
  • Reviews: 3

Speak is a fiercely authentic and award-winning modern classic that has garnered critical acclaim for its powerful narrative. The story revolves around a young woman who struggles to speak out about a traumatic event that has left her isolated and misunderstood. The novel is praised for its timeless relevance, particularly in the context of the #MeToo movement, and is considered essential reading for its exploration of themes such as trauma, resilience, and the power of voice. /n/n The protagonist's journey is one of self-discovery and empowerment, as she navigates the challenges of high school life while grappling with the aftermath of her experience. The novel's impactful storytelling and relatable characters have made it a beloved and widely discussed book, with its themes continuing to resonate with readers of all ages.

Reviews
Frappe and Fiction · 2020-07-13
engaging 4.50

The book tackles serious topics with a mix of dark and sarcastically funny delivery. It's a powerful read that balances heavy themes with engaging storytelling.

This reviewer found the book to be a remarkable blend of serious themes and a unique narrative voice. The dark and sarcastic humor adds a layer of complexity, making the heavy topics more accessible. The writing style is engaging, and the story's emotional depth resonates long after the last page. It's a book that manages to be both thought-provoking and entertaining, making it a standout read.

Quick quotes

    This book somehow managed to cover serious topics while maintaining an eloquent mix of realistic, dark, and sarcastically funny delivery.

    The writing style is engaging, and the story's emotional depth resonates long after the last page.

    It's a book that manages to be both thought-provoking and entertaining.

Psi Still Reads You · 2018-04-16
mixed 3.00

The book delivers an inspiring message about using your voice, but the journey to get there can be a chore. The characters are drab and unlikable, making the read less enjoyable.

While the reviewer appreciated the book's central message about finding your voice, they found the execution to be lacking. The characters were described as drab and unlikable, which made the reading experience somewhat tedious. Despite this, the reviewer acknowledged the book's important themes and the eventual payoff of the protagonist's journey. It's a book that has its moments, but the path to those moments is not always smooth.

Quick quotes

    Speak presents an inspiring message about using your voice.

    However, a majority of the book is a chore to read, considering its drab, unlikable characters.

    The characters were described as drab and unlikable, which made the reading experience somewhat tedious.

For What It's Worth · 2010-09-30
excellent 5.00

This book is one of the best they've ever read, highlighting the protagonist's triumph over her troubles. The emotional journey is both resonant and deeply moving.

The reviewer was deeply moved by this book, calling it one of the best they've ever read. The protagonist's journey is portrayed with such emotional depth and realism that it's hard not to be affected. The book's ability to capture the essence of personal struggle and triumph makes it a truly memorable read. The reviewer appreciated the raw honesty and the powerful message of resilience that permeates the story.

Quick quotes

    Speak by Laurie Halse Anderson was one of the best books that I have ever read.

    I enjoyed reading about her triumphing through her troubles.

    The book's ability to capture the essence of personal struggle and triumph makes it a truly memorable read.

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