Speak is a young adult novel written by Laurie Halse Anderson that tells the story of young Melinda Scordio who has to endure the aftermath of her rape, while also adapting to the changes it has brought upon her life. Melinda has just started high school, but due to past events that occurred last summer, she is left as an empty shell with her voice snatched away and little hopes of returning. Melinda has remained silent and finds herself lost in the chaos of it all. She is able to find her sanctuary, not only a place, but something with much more meaning. Throughout the book, Melinda struggles with opening herself up to people and being able to tell her story. She is able to find herself catching glimpses of the light that evades the darkness