On the Shelf by Tara Michener: Say It Out Loud by Allison Varnes

Speak up. Use your words. Express yourself. 

These suggestions might sound easier than they are. This is especially true if you are a middle school student who has been bullied because the bullies believe that you told on them. This might be even harder if you try your best not to use your words very often because you stutter. 

Allison Varnes does a delightful job of taking us on a journey of a young girl, giving readers an inside look at what it is like when speech does not come easy. 

When we talk about the concept of windows and mirrors, we don’t always talk about talk. Talking is sometimes a privilege that is assumed. This book gives a really good glimpse of the pressure that a student can face when they are caught off guard and expected to speak or the shame that can threaten when there is a need for a teacher to assist. 

Say It Out Loud (Random House, 2021) covers the value in speaking up for others as well as understanding that we don’t all speak the same, but our words make the biggest difference. I implore you to not only get it for a person who loves middle grade lit but also for an educator who works with children. 

Tara Michener is the author of six children's books that focus on self-esteem, diversity and anti-bullying. She is a TEDx speaker, therapist and owns her own private practice in Novi, MI. Tara has been recognized in publications such as Prevention Magazine, Essence Magazine, FREEP and more! She is the Committee Chair of E&I at SCBWI-MI. Her favorite days usually include spending time with her hubistrator, Jason, her son Cannon and her favorite snack Twizzlers and Diet Coke. You can follow her on Twitter @Taramichener.