Melinda faces conflicts with her former friends who have turned against her, struggles with expressing her trauma and emotions, and grapples with the fear of speaking up about the sexual assault she experienced.
Andy Evans's external conflicts in "Speak" involve his aggressive and abusive behavior towards Melinda, which is a source of conflict with her as well as with other characters who witness his actions. Additionally, his conflict with the school authorities and the justice system when Melinda finally speaks out about his assault also contributes to his external struggles in the story.
In the book Speak, Melinda draws a droopy Willow tree.
Melinda
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In the novel Speak, Melinda's parents are at a conference the night of Kyle's party. This allows Melinda to go to the party without them knowing.
In the book "Speak" by Laurie Halse Anderson, Melinda is in detention with Rachel Bruin. Rachel is one of Melinda's former friends who no longer speaks to her after Melinda called the police at a party over the summer.
In the book "Speak" by Laurie Halse Anderson, Melinda calls the cops on page 125. This is a significant moment in the story as it marks Melinda's decision to speak up about what happened to her at the party.
Melinda goes to the abandoned garden behind the old school in Speak when she goes on her bike ride.
In the story "Speak," a new student named Heather introduces herself to Melinda in the first marking period. Heather tries to befriend Melinda, but Melinda struggles to open up to her due to her trauma from a recent traumatic event.
Biology, Social Studies, Algebra, English, Spanish, Gym, Art.
Melinda being raped at a party by an older student. Melinda's struggle to find her voice and speak up about the assault. Melinda's art project reflecting her emotions and trauma. Melinda facing her abuser in the final confrontation. Melinda finally speaking out about what happened to her and finding closure.
Melinda wants to be seen and heard, to confront her trauma, and to find her voice and speak her truth.