Speak, by Laurie Halse Anderson, is a multilayered story, which takes the reader on a yearlong journey into the mind of a high school freshman, Melinda Sordino. Through first person narration, the reader feels the experiences Melinda goes through as she tries to cope with the effects of rape without the help of anyone around her. The first time I read this novel I was drawn to Melinda as a strongly developed protagonist. As I reread this novel critically, I was amazed at the realistic portrayal of Melinda’s silent reaction to rape, and the multifaceted symbols and intricate connections spun into the novel by Anderson.According to Laurie Halse Anderson’s website, www.writerlady.com, the character of Melinda Sordino is the result of a haunting dream. Anderson awoke one night with the voice of Melinda, and the overall concept of her life, occupying her thoughts in an attempt to be heard. The character of Melinda is complex, witty, bright, yet omissible, and detail-oriented. Although it’s obvious Melinda is suffering from depression, her thoughts provide the reader with a glimpse of her personality and identity before the rape.
This is one of the best young adult novels I've read. I highly recommend it for people of all ages. Read it and let me know what you think!!
No comments:
Post a Comment