Speak addresses many social concerns.

Dating violence is the main issue that concerns characters. Unfortunately, Melinda's experience is one many teenage girls suffer.

Physicians, psychologists, and social workers estimate that, on average, one out of five high school girls have been physically or sexually abused by a person they are dating. Date rape statistics increased dramatically by the beginning of the twenty-first century, and the two rates for teenage girls and adult females harmed by sexual abuse and assaults have become almost equivalent. In addition to assaults by romantic partners, many teenage girls are the victims of sexual attacks by casual acquaintances or strangers who may drug their drinks at parties or take advantage of their drunkenness. Other girls might be sexually victimized by family members or trusted adults.

Young women also endure sexual harassment from their peers, teachers, employers, authority figures, or men in their...