Speak by Laurie Halse Anderson

This is a very well-written YA book. When we read literature meant for Young Adults, it helps us understand dealing with the anxieties and stress that they face in their lives. They are slightly older than children and yet younger than adults. So, what sets this story different? Often in the rebellious phase during teenage, we choose to scream, express anger via a very visible body communication. When someone is damaged and crushed and cannot muster up courage to confront the attacker, they keep mum because they are ashamed of being the victim; there is a stigma with being victimized. Speaking up takes courage, a lot of guts but mostly support from people who understand the pain and anguish the victim undergoes. Melinda from this story goes mute also because of lack of empathy from her parents and victim-blaming from her peers. Its extremely important to focus on mental health of young adults. The school often is not the best place to do so. Unfortunately, when parents fail to provide comfort it breaks such kids. Some are tough and valiantly battle their way. I only wish that we as society recognize and put some love back into these kids lives. A voice of hope and comfort is the strength we can provide them. Sexual assault, bullying, eating disorders, low self-esteem – these are increasingly being discussed in schools now. While there are guidance counsellors available in american schools, India doesn’t have any such support systems in their schools yet. It becomes extremely difficult amidst the attention and emphasis paid on academic records than nurturing mental health and an overall well-being of teenagers these days. School and academics have become more competitive and cut-throat now than ever. Ten years ago, teens would talk, discuss, approach teachers and their friends with problems. Now, everyone is too caught up in their own little world facilitated by electronic devices that keep them entertained and also, alas! aloof from their peers and teachers. While the goal of studying in school environment is to learn to adjust and live with people, it can seriously also defeat this very purpose when authorities fail to recognize signs of trauma/distress in teens. The nuclear family has become way too individual now to demand attention from each other. Its the collective responsibility of parents, teachers and school authorities to guide such teens when they notice something irregular with them. Not every teen will approach regarding their problems. I feel strongly that schools must develop such ‘easy approach’ so that they do speak up fearlessly. I hope kids in schools read more such literature. We need to identify Post-traumatic stress disorder in children and help them deal with it. Not everyone finds their way and voice back like Melinda in ordinary life.  Art as therapy though not consciously used or realized by Mel is another positive feature of this story.  I became involved with her linoleum blocks of tree carving. Its amazing how a subject as simple as ‘trees’ can help untangle the mental wearing within. This book has been an eye opener to become more involved with the emotional distress that teens face. They are fighting their lone battles. A little help and kindness from parents, friends and society will help them get past these demons and lead better lives. Thank you, Laurie Halse Anderson for writing this book.