This is my second time reading Speak and it still remains as one of my favorite novels of all time, and a personal favorite from Laurie Halse Anderson. Speak is the story of high school freshman Melinda, who has become an elective mute after calling the cops and getting everyone busted at the seniors' end-of-summer party. She is shunned by everyone and her home life is less than satisfactory. What happened to her? 
 Speak was my very first novel dealing with (view spoiler)[rape (hide spoiler)] and while the basis of the novel is based on that theme, Speak is also very much a novel about depression. Melinda was an excellent student, a carefree girl but after the end-of-summer party, her grades plummets, she doesn't speak, she cuts class, etc. This are all classic signs of depression. Speak deals with the subject delicately because while Melinda may be depressed, she is still thoroughly observant. She pays close attention to the cliques in school, interactions between classmates; the social aspects of life. I think Speak is very much a tribute/homage to the outcast we all know in life. It's entirely possible that they're not an outcast by choice and the things they could tell us, could very well scare us. 
 Laurie Halse Anderson's writing is truly amazing and beautiful at the same time. One cannot help but feel sympathetic to our protagonist, Melinda. Her observations are witty and sarcastic at times, and I think readers will really be able to relate to observations such as this: 
 "THE FIRST TEN LIES THEY TELL YOU IN HIGH SCHOOL 
 1. We are here to help you. 
 2. You will have enough time to get to your class before the bell rings. 
 3. The dress code will be enforced. 
 4. No smoking is allowed on school grounds. 
 5. Our football team will win the championship this year. 
 6. We expect more of you here. 
 7. Guidance counselors are always available to listen. 
 8. Your schedule was created with your needs in mind. 
 9. Your locker combination is private. 
 10. These will be the years you will look back on fondly." 
 While Speak can get dark and depressing at times, it is also immensely real, honest and authentic. I highly recommend the movie as well. It doesn't follow every single thing from the book, but the essence of it was retained and the cast put up a stellar performance, especially Kristen Stewart, despite her young age when filming occurred. 
 Well done!! 10 stars if possible!!!