Speak by Laurie Halse Anderson

SYNOPSIS:  Melinda hasn't spoken much since the night of the party.  She is somewhat of an outcast after calling the police and ending the party, getting some of her fellow students into trouble.  However, Melinda knows the side of the story no one else does.  As she struggles to come to peace with what happened, she tries to find her voice.

AUNT SHARON'S TAKE:  This is definitely not a book for younger readers.  Its subject matter is very mature in nature.  It includes sensuality and sexual reference, as well as violence and some language.  However, that being said, for adult or young adult readers, it can be an eye-opening read about the after-effects of sexual abuse.  I would only recommend it for the most mature readers who understand the adult topic.

AUDIENCE:  Young Adult, Adult

RATING:  PG13 for Violence, Sensuality, and Adult Material

STARS:  2

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