Speak: The Graphic Novel

Melinda is social outcast her freshman year after calling the cops on a party over the summer.  She dialed 911, but then she couldn't speak.  She couldn't say the words about what happened out loud, so the police showed up to break up the
She can't tell her parents what happened or why she's suddenly failing everything except art.  She can't tell her former best friend who didn't even ask what was wrong, who didn't even try to stand up for Melinda. 

It doesn't help that she has to see him at school.  He gets to go on with life like nothing happened, but every time Melinda sees him, she just wants to run. 

For a long time, her world closes in.  She doesn't really speak to anyone about anything.  But eventually, art becomes a way to heal, a source of strength, and a way to speak the truth about what really happened last summer. 

This new graphic novelization of Laurie Halse Anderson's modern classic novel is still powerful in a different form.  Emily Carroll's artwork conveys Melinda's fear and anxiety perfectly.  My general recommendation is for 8th grade and up, but this book deals with the sensitive topic of rape.  Give it to the people who need it.  Just like the original, this book can be a source of hope and strength to victims, but it's the kind of story everyone should read at some point.