This story features Melinda, a ninth grader who experiences a serious situation involving a rape incident with a senior boy right before the beginning of school. The entire school thinks that Melinda ended a party with the arrival of the police, but never knew the real reason why the police were called. Everyone at school rejects Melinda to the point where she ends up finding sanctuary in a janitor's closet until a new friend and teacher persuade Melinda to start speaking about what really happened.
One of my favorite parts, and one of the most climatic moments, in the story is when the senior tries to rape Melinda for a second time. Things are different this time because not only does she fight back, but the lacrosse team hears her and comes to protect her. I love that through a tragic and emotional experience, Melinda grows and learns for the better.
I would be a little unsure about using this within a classroom setting due to the mature nature of the rape situation, but the lessons learned of how a young girl overcomes major fear and learns how to speak up for herself is a priceless lesson for every young adult.
Andeson, L.H. (1999). Speak. Square Fish.
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