Episode 39: Speak

Speak

On Episode 39, we discuss Laurie Halse Anderson’s groundbreaking 1999 novel Speak, which explores the troubling issues of sexual assault and trauma through the story of 14-year-old Melinda. Alli and guest Morgan Hoit — better known as nycbookgirl — talk about the value of the diary-style/epistolary novel, chat about their experiences with high school gossip culture, and break down in great detail Speak’s role as an entry point to an understanding of rape and sexual assault for so many young readers.

Follow Morgan’s adventures in all things books and New York City on Instagram @nycbookgirl and on her blog, NYC Book Girl!

**TRIGGER WARNING: This episode includes discussion of rape, trauma, sexual assault, self-harm, and depression.

CHECK OUT LAURIE HALSE ANDERSON’S BRAND NEW MEMOIR SHOUT!

CHECK OUT MORGAN’S BOOK RECOMMENDATIONS:

Trust Exercise: A Novel by Susan Choi

MORE READING:

“Speak” (Publishers Weekly, 1999)

“15 Years of Speak: An Interview With Laurie Halse Anderson” (Book Riot, 2014)

“Laurie Halse Anderson on her groundbreaking book Speak being reissued as a graphic novel” (Entertainment Weekly, 2018)

“Speak By Laurie Halse Anderson Is Still Painfully Relevant In The Age Of #MeToo” (Bustle, 2017)

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**Please note that the Amazon links above are affiliate links. At no additional cost to you, I will earn a small commission if you decide to make a purchase through these links. Please do not feel inclined to purchase unless you are excited to add these books to your TBR list!**