By Sarah Dessen
Classification: YA Fiction
Genre: Realistic fiction, Chick lit
Age Level: 13+
Subjects: Friendship, family, eating disorders, sexual assault, bullying
Reader’s Annotation: Annabel has a secret and her unwillingness to share it is costing her the trust of her most-needed friends.
Summary: Keeping her assault by her best friend’s boyfriend a secret, Annabel Green finds herself ostracized at school. Annabel is also losing interest in the modeling jobs her mother keeps pressuring her to book. Unfortunately, Annabel does not feel comfortable speaking up at home because her older sister’s eating disorder has already caused tension in the family. Annabel slowly becomes friends with Owen Armstrong, whose passion is music, but their relationship is threatened by Annabel’s inability to open up and confide in others. Annabel continues to hold her tongue and alienate those who would help her until a friend inspires her to share her story.
Notes: Just Listen is not quite as harrowing as Laurie Halse Anderson’s Speak, but compelling and just as honest.
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