Young adult novel creates disscussion on trauma, rape

BY ALEXA DUMAS Web Editor

“You have to know what you stand for, not just what you stand against.”

Melinda seems like the typical freshman high school student: shy, antisocial and an outcast. This feeling seems to be elevated, as the reason for Melinda’s “outcast” status is due to her calling the police to break up a party she attended over the summer. What is the real reason she called? Why is she being shunned by her peers? Why will no one listen?

Laurie Halse Anderson’s 1999 novel, “Speak,” is a tale that Anderson felt was necessary to tell. The young adult novel shows the negative sides of adolescence, and how teenagers need community in order to thrive and navigate the new world they are about to enter.

“Speak” is set in the author’s hometown of Syracuse, New York. The novel is based on her own high school and young adult experience. alarms. The loud sounds and flashing lights can cause meltdowns or panic attacks for some students, so these alarms quickly become a fear rather than a nuisance.

Melinda’s struggles are relatable, as her anxiety stems from how others perceive her, along with the awkwardness of freshman year. It is referenced that Melinda used to have a close friendship with a girl named Rachel Bruin, but that ended once Melinda called the police to break up the party they attended over the summer.

Melinda notes Rachel was her best friend throughout their childhood, but it ended once Melinda made the phone call.

Not only does Melinda struggle at school, she has a turbulent relationship with her parents. They lack empathy and don’t seem to care about what is going on with their daughter.

The cold can be bitter and biting as well, which is common for Plattsburgh. Despite that, students should not have to stand around in pajamas while waiting for firefighters to arrive for false alarms. Especially when students are taken by surprise and cannot better prepare themselves for the frigid night.