Graphic Novel Review: Speak

I really enjoyed this adaptation of Speak. I felt that it captured the feelings I had when I first read the novel. I felt the horror, the helplessness, the anger, and the emptiness all over again. Most importantly I felt her braveness. I loved seeing the art that Melinda created with the trees.

I loved the art work. I love how it was black and white. I wish at the end, there had been a tiny bit of color to show her growth and healing and also to match the cover.

I hope this version of the book reaches a new generation of teens and touches their lives. And spurs conversations about consent, rape, and friendship. 

If You Like Pins (5)

At work, I made a few similar reads pins for our Pinterest page...

Going Too Far and books about older teens...

Wintergirls and books about serious topics

Princess Diaries (enough said)

Wintergirls

In celebration of the release of WINTERGIRLS (which I have yet to read, but have a hold on it - still I know it's going to be fabulous.) I've put together a listing of other teen titles that talk about similar weight issues. This is an issue that everyone faces (not just women). Some of it stems from critical comments from "friends" or family. Some of it stems from Hollywood looks - where being thin makes you better. Some of it stems from magazines and media - idealizing the perfect body shape. Some of it stems from clothing stores that rarely sell normal size clothing. All of these bombard women with the societal view of the idealized woman.

BUT everyone's different, unique, and special. It's hard to stop analyzing yourself and becoming comfortable in your own skin - but it IS possible.

Check out WHY Laurie Halse Anderson wrote this book:

Laurie Halse Anderson - Speak Poem