Free To Read: Speak by Laurie Halse Anderson

Speak is a powerful novel by Laurie Halse Anderson that authentically portrays the struggles of trauma and isolation. Through the protagonist Melinda, Anderson addresses serious issues like sexual assault and the importance of finding one's voice. Widely acclaimed for its raw and realistic depiction, Speak has become a significant and influential work in young adult literature.

Free to Read, is an ongoing book discussion series presented by the Antioch Baptist Church and the Bedford Hills Free Library, launched in response to increased efforts to target or restrict access to books in libraries and schools.  Our shared purpose is to better understand complex issues, explore our personal response to challenged and banned books, develop empathy for others, and discover our own way to protect everyone’s freedom to read.