There are lots of books about the subject of metamorphosis—about characters who go through life-altering events and emerge the better for their struggles. But Melinda Sordino, the main character in Speak, is one-of-a-kind. Actually, Speak itself is a one-of-a-kind book. It’s gritty. It’s painful. But in Melinda, it also has a surprisingly authentic protagonist who finds the courage to reclaim her voice after a shattering tragedy. All by way of saying that while Speak isn’t exactly about an inspiring topic, Melinda’s struggles will probably still inspire you—not just to keep turning the pages, but to find your own strength to move forward, no matter what you might be facing.
Genre: Fiction (YA) Jenny’s rating (out of 5 stars): 4 You’ll like this book if: You appreciate strong, resilient characters. You won’t like this book if: You don’t have much of a stomach for severe emotional trauma.