Something to Say

Plot Summary

Setting the Stage

"Something to Say" by Lisa Moore Ramée unfolds in contemporary Oakland, California, where eleven-year-old Jenae navigates the complex terrain of middle school while grappling with her selective mutism. The story begins as Jenae enters sixth grade at a new school, Martin Luther King Jr. Middle School, where she hopes for a fresh start but finds herself trapped by the same anxiety that has silenced her voice in academic settings for years. At home with her family and in her neighborhood, Jenae is talkative and confident, but the moment she steps into a classroom, her voice seems to disappear entirely.

The novel establishes Jenae's world through her close-knit family relationships, particularly with her supportive parents and her older sister, who understands her struggles intimately. Jenae's passion for baking serves as both a comfort and a means of expression, allowing her to communicate love and care through elaborate cakes and treats. Her neighborhood feels like a safe haven where she can be herself fully, contrasting sharply with the intimidating environment of school where expectations and social pressures mount daily.

The academic setting becomes a character in itself, representing both opportunity and obstacle. Jenae's teachers vary in their understanding and patience, with some recognizing her intelligence despite her silence, while others mistake her condition for defiance or lack of ability. This dichotomy sets up the central conflict that will drive the narrative forward.

Rising Action and Character Development

The plot gains momentum when Jenae becomes involved in her school's debate team, despite her speaking difficulties. This seemingly contradictory situation arises through the encouragement of her English teacher, Ms. Williams, who recognizes Jenae's analytical skills and written communication abilities. Initially, Jenae serves as a researcher for the team, contributing to their arguments through her exceptional writing and research capabilities while her teammates handle the actual speaking components.

During this period, Jenae forms unlikely friendships that challenge her self-perception and push her toward growth. Her relationship with Aubrey, a confident and outgoing classmate, becomes particularly significant. Aubrey's natural ease with speaking and social interaction initially intimidates Jenae, but their shared intellectual curiosity about debate topics creates a bond that transcends their differences. Through Aubrey, Jenae begins to see possibilities for herself that she had never considered.

Simultaneously, Jenae develops a friendship with Sam, a quiet boy who shares her love of research and careful thinking. Sam's presence offers Jenae a different model of communication – one that values thoughtfulness over volume, quality over quantity. Their friendship develops through shared projects and mutual respect, showing Jenae that there are multiple ways to be heard and valued.

"Maybe being quiet wasn't the same as having nothing to say. Maybe it just meant you were choosing your words carefully."

The rising action intensifies when personal stakes become involved. Jenae's family faces a potential displacement due to gentrification in their neighborhood, and she realizes that her voice might be needed to advocate for her community. This external pressure creates an internal urgency that begins to challenge her selective mutism in new ways.

Climax and Resolution

The climax arrives when circumstances force Jenae to step outside her comfort zone in a dramatic way. The debate team faces a crucial competition, and due to unexpected circumstances – a teammate's illness – Jenae must choose between letting her team down or finding her voice when it matters most. The debate topic, coincidentally, relates to community development and housing rights, issues that directly affect her own family and neighborhood.

In this pivotal moment, Jenae's preparation and passion for the subject matter collide with her deep care for her community and teammates. The narrative builds tension as readers witness Jenae's internal struggle, her physical symptoms of anxiety, and her determination to overcome the barriers that have held her back. The scene is crafted with careful attention to the reality of selective mutism, avoiding the oversimplification of a magical cure while still allowing for meaningful progress.

"Her voice came out small at first, like a whisper finding its strength, but it carried all the weight of everything she'd been saving up to say."

The resolution unfolds gradually, acknowledging that overcoming selective mutism is an ongoing process rather than a single moment of triumph. Jenae's breakthrough at the debate competition opens doors for her, but the novel realistically portrays her continued work with speech therapy and supportive adults. Her family's housing situation finds a positive resolution through community advocacy efforts that Jenae herself contributes to, now armed with new confidence in her ability to communicate when it truly matters.

The story concludes with Jenae having found her voice not just in the literal sense, but in understanding her own value and the importance of her contributions to her community. She continues baking, now seeing it as one of many ways she can express herself and care for others. The novel ends on a note of hope and growth, with Jenae looking forward to new challenges and opportunities, supported by her family, friends, and a deeper understanding of her own strength.

Character Analysis

Eleven Anderson - The Protagonist's Journey of Self-Discovery

Eleven Anderson serves as the heart and soul of "Something to Say," representing the universal struggle of finding one's voice in a world that often seems overwhelming. As an eleven-year-old girl entering sixth grade, Eleven embodies the awkward transition between childhood and adolescence, carrying the weight of expectations while grappling with her own identity. Her character is masterfully crafted by Lisa Moore Ramée to showcase the complexities of growing up as a Black girl in contemporary America.

What makes Eleven particularly compelling is her internal conflict between her desire to speak up and her fear of being judged. Throughout the novel, she demonstrates remarkable intelligence and insight, often having profound thoughts about social justice, family dynamics, and friendship. However, these thoughts rarely translate into spoken words, creating a poignant tension that drives the narrative forward. Her selective mutism isn't portrayed as a character flaw but rather as a protective mechanism developed in response to a world that hasn't always been kind to her voice.

"I have so much to say, but the words get stuck somewhere between my brain and my mouth, like they're traffic-jammed in my throat."

Eleven's relationship with her identity is multifaceted and evolving. She struggles with feeling different from her peers, not just because of her quiet nature, but also due to her family's financial situation and her own developing consciousness about racial dynamics in her school and community. Ramée skillfully shows how Eleven's silence often stems from her acute awareness of how she's perceived by others, particularly in predominantly white spaces where she feels the pressure to represent her entire race.

The character's growth throughout the novel is both realistic and inspiring. Her journey toward finding her voice isn't linear or simplistic; instead, it's marked by small victories, setbacks, and moments of profound realization. Eleven learns that speaking up doesn't always mean being the loudest person in the room, and that her quiet observations and thoughtful responses can be just as powerful as grand speeches. Her evolution demonstrates that courage comes in many forms and that finding one's voice is a process rather than a destination.

Jerrie Anderson - The Supportive Yet Complex Mother Figure

Jerrie Anderson represents the archetype of the strong Black mother while avoiding stereotypical portrayals through Ramée's nuanced characterization. As a single mother working multiple jobs to provide for her family, Jerrie embodies resilience and determination. However, the author doesn't present her as a perfect maternal figure; instead, she's portrayed as a real woman with her own struggles, dreams, and occasional moments of doubt.

Jerrie's relationship with Eleven is central to the novel's emotional core. She recognizes her daughter's intelligence and potential while simultaneously worrying about her quiet nature. Her protective instincts sometimes clash with her desire to push Eleven toward greater self-advocacy. This tension creates realistic mother-daughter dynamics that many readers will recognize and relate to.

"Baby girl, you got a voice. Don't let nobody tell you it ain't worth hearing."

Throughout the story, Jerrie serves as both a role model and a cautionary tale for Eleven. She demonstrates the importance of hard work and perseverance, showing her daughter that success requires dedication and sacrifice. However, her own experiences with speaking up and facing consequences provide Eleven with complex lessons about when and how to use one's voice. Jerrie's character illustrates the generational differences in approaching activism and self-advocacy, as she sometimes encourages Eleven to "pick her battles" while other times pushing her to stand firm in her convictions.

The author uses Jerrie's character to explore themes of economic struggle and its impact on family dynamics. Her work schedule often keeps her away from home, creating situations where Eleven must navigate challenges independently. This absence isn't portrayed as neglect but rather as the reality of working-class life, adding another layer to Eleven's coming-of-age experience.

Supporting Characters and Their Impact on Eleven's Development

The supporting characters in "Something to Say" serve as crucial catalysts for Eleven's growth, each representing different aspects of her world and different approaches to navigating it. These characters are carefully crafted to reflect the diversity of voices and perspectives that influence a young person's development.

Eleven's teacher, Ms. Martinez, emerges as a particularly significant figure who recognizes Eleven's potential and gently encourages her participation in class discussions and activities. Rather than forcing Eleven to speak, Ms. Martinez creates safe spaces for expression and validates different forms of communication. Her character represents the positive impact that understanding educators can have on students who don't fit traditional molds of classroom participation.

The classmates and peers surrounding Eleven represent the complex social dynamics of middle school, where friendships can shift rapidly and social hierarchies can feel overwhelming. Some characters serve as allies who appreciate Eleven's quiet wisdom, while others represent the challenges of peer pressure and the desire to fit in. Through these interactions, Ramée explores how young people learn to navigate social relationships while staying true to themselves.

"Sometimes the people who talk the least have the most important things to say."

Family members, including extended relatives and family friends, provide Eleven with different models of Black womanhood and varying perspectives on how to move through the world. These characters offer wisdom, support, and sometimes conflicting advice, reflecting the reality that growth often comes through synthesizing multiple viewpoints rather than following a single path.

The antagonistic characters in the novel aren't portrayed as villains but rather as individuals whose actions and attitudes create obstacles for Eleven's self-expression. Whether through microaggressions, misunderstandings, or outright discrimination, these characters force Eleven to confront difficult realities about her world while also highlighting her strength and resilience. Through these challenging interactions, Eleven learns that finding her voice often means speaking truth to power, even when it's uncomfortable or risky.

Themes and Literary Devices

The Power of Finding Your Voice

The central theme of "Something to Say" revolves around eleven-year-old Jenae's journey to discover and express her authentic voice. Lisa Moore Ramée masterfully explores how selective mutism becomes both a barrier and a catalyst for self-discovery. Jenae's struggle with speaking in social situations reflects the broader challenge many young people face in finding their place in the world and having the confidence to share their thoughts and feelings.

Throughout the novel, Ramée demonstrates that having "something to say" extends far beyond verbal communication. Jenae's rich inner monologue reveals a thoughtful, observant, and deeply feeling young person who has profound insights about friendship, family, and belonging. Her selective mutism doesn't diminish her intelligence or worth—rather, it highlights the many ways people can communicate and connect with others.

"I have words inside me, thousands of them, millions maybe. They bounce around like ping-pong balls in my chest, but when I try to let them out, they get stuck somewhere between my heart and my throat."

The author uses Jenae's gradual progress throughout the school year to illustrate that finding one's voice is a process, not a destination. Small victories—like whispering to her teacher or participating in group projects—build upon each other, showing readers that courage grows through practice and supportive relationships. The theme resonates particularly strongly in educational settings, where the pressure to participate verbally can feel overwhelming for students who process and express themselves differently.

Friendship, Loyalty, and Belonging

Ramée explores the complex dynamics of childhood friendship through Jenae's relationships with her two closest friends, Aubrey and Sarah. The novel examines how friendships evolve as children grow and change, and how the fear of losing important relationships can sometimes prevent authentic self-expression. Jenae's struggle to maintain her friendships while staying true to herself reflects the universal challenge of balancing loyalty to others with personal growth.

The author skillfully portrays how misunderstandings and unspoken expectations can strain even the strongest friendships. When Aubrey and Sarah begin to drift toward different interests and social groups, Jenae finds herself caught in the middle, uncertain about where she belongs. This situation is complicated by her selective mutism, as she often cannot voice her feelings or concerns when conflicts arise.

Through various interactions and conflicts, Ramée demonstrates that true friendship requires understanding, patience, and acceptance. The friends who matter most are those who value Jenae for who she is, not who they think she should become. The novel suggests that belonging doesn't require changing oneself to fit in, but rather finding people who appreciate and support one's authentic self.

"Real friends don't make you feel like you need to be someone else. They make you feel like being yourself is enough."

The theme of belonging extends beyond peer relationships to include family dynamics and classroom communities. Jenae's journey illustrates how creating inclusive environments where different communication styles are valued benefits everyone, not just those who struggle with traditional forms of expression.

Identity and Self-Acceptance

A profound theme running throughout the novel is Jenae's evolving understanding of her own identity. Ramée presents selective mutism not as a flaw to be fixed, but as one aspect of a complex, valuable person. The author challenges readers to reconsider assumptions about what it means to be confident, intelligent, or socially successful.

Jenae's internal struggle with self-acceptance is depicted through her constant self-evaluation and comparison to others. She admires her friends' apparent ease in social situations while undervaluing her own strengths—her artistic abilities, her empathy, and her careful observation of the world around her. The novel suggests that self-acceptance comes not from becoming someone different, but from recognizing and appreciating one's existing qualities.

The author explores how external pressures and expectations can conflict with internal identity. Well-meaning adults and peers often encourage Jenae to speak more, not understanding that their pressure can actually increase her anxiety. Through various encounters, the novel illustrates the importance of allowing individuals to develop at their own pace and in their own way.

Ramée also addresses the intersection of identity with cultural and familial expectations. Jenae's family background and the various communities she navigates each have different norms around communication and self-expression, adding layers to her identity formation process.

Literary Devices and Narrative Techniques

Lisa Moore Ramée employs several sophisticated literary devices to bring Jenae's story to life and help readers understand the experience of selective mutism. The first-person narrative voice is particularly effective, allowing readers direct access to Jenae's thoughts and feelings while emphasizing the contrast between her rich inner life and her external silence.

The author uses internal monologue as a primary device to develop character and advance plot. Jenae's constant mental commentary provides insight into her perceptions, fears, and hopes while demonstrating that silence doesn't indicate absence of thought. This technique helps readers understand that people who don't speak much may actually be highly engaged with their surroundings and have complex emotional lives.

Ramée employs metaphor and imagery throughout the novel to make abstract concepts more concrete. The recurring image of words as physical objects—ping-pong balls bouncing in Jenae's chest, butterflies in her stomach when she wants to speak—helps readers viscerally understand the physical sensation of being unable to express oneself verbally.

"My words feel like butterflies that got confused and flew into my stomach instead of out of my mouth."

The author uses symbolism effectively, particularly through Jenae's artwork and creative projects. Her drawings and school assignments become vehicles for expression when verbal communication feels impossible, symbolizing alternative forms of voice and self-expression. The school's talent show serves as a powerful symbol of the various ways people can share their gifts with others.

Ramée's use of dialogue is particularly skillful—she shows rather than tells how Jenae's selective mutism affects her interactions. The contrast between other characters' easy conversation and Jenae's internal responses creates tension and empathy. The gradual increase in Jenae's verbal participation throughout the novel serves as both character development and plot progression.

The author also employs situational irony effectively, particularly in moments when Jenae desperately wants to speak but cannot, while others talk without considering the weight of their words. This device highlights the value of thoughtful communication and the complexity of human expression.

Critical Analysis

Narrative Structure and Voice

Lisa Moore Ramée demonstrates exceptional skill in crafting an authentic middle-grade narrative voice in "Something to Say." The novel is told from the first-person perspective of Jenae, an eleven-year-old Black girl navigating the complexities of family relationships, friendship, and self-discovery. Ramée's choice to use present tense creates an immediacy that draws readers directly into Jenae's world, making her thoughts and emotions feel urgent and real.

The narrative structure follows a traditional coming-of-age arc, but Ramée subverts expectations by focusing on quiet moments of growth rather than dramatic plot events. The story unfolds through a series of interconnected episodes that build emotional momentum gradually. This episodic structure mirrors the way children actually experience life—through small, seemingly insignificant moments that accumulate into larger understandings about themselves and their world.

Ramée's mastery of voice is particularly evident in how she captures Jenae's internal dialogue. The protagonist's thoughts feel genuinely childlike without being simplistic or condescending. For instance, when Jenae grapples with her feelings about her sister's disability, her confusion and frustration come through in age-appropriate language that never talks down to young readers while remaining accessible to them.

"I wish Alex could just be normal sometimes. Not all the time, just sometimes. Is that a terrible thing to think?"

This honest portrayal of a child's conflicted emotions about disability demonstrates Ramée's commitment to authentic representation. The author refuses to sanitize difficult feelings, instead presenting them as natural parts of human experience that require examination and growth.

Character Development and Relationships

The character development in "Something to Say" is nuanced and multi-layered, with Ramée creating fully realized individuals who grow and change throughout the narrative. Jenae's evolution from a girl who feels overshadowed by her sister's needs to someone who finds her own voice and purpose is handled with remarkable sensitivity and realism.

The relationship between Jenae and her sister Alex serves as the emotional core of the novel. Ramée avoids the common pitfall of depicting the neurotypical sibling as purely resentful or the disabled character as purely inspirational. Instead, she presents a complex sibling dynamic filled with love, frustration, protection, and genuine affection. Alex is portrayed as a fully developed character with her own agency, desires, and personality, rather than simply existing as a catalyst for Jenae's growth.

Jenae's friendships, particularly with Aubrey, provide another layer of character development. The evolution of their relationship from tentative alliance to genuine friendship demonstrates Ramée's understanding of how pre-adolescent social dynamics actually function. The author captures the way children can be simultaneously cruel and kind, often within the same conversation.

The adult characters, particularly Jenae's parents, are portrayed with depth and complexity rarely seen in middle-grade fiction. They are neither perfect nor villainous, but rather real people doing their best in challenging circumstances. Jenae's mother's exhaustion and her father's attempts to balance everyone's needs create a family portrait that feels authentic rather than idealized.

"Mom looks tired all the time now. Even when she's smiling, her eyes look tired."

This observation reveals both Jenae's growing awareness of adult struggles and Ramée's commitment to showing the ripple effects of caring for a child with special needs on the entire family system.

Themes and Social Commentary

Ramée weaves several significant themes throughout the narrative, with the most prominent being the importance of finding one's voice and place within family and community structures. The title "Something to Say" reflects not just Jenae's journey toward self-expression, but also the broader theme that every person, regardless of ability or circumstance, has something valuable to contribute.

The novel provides thoughtful commentary on disability representation and the experiences of families affected by autism. Rather than presenting autism as something to be "overcome" or "cured," Ramée presents it as a different way of experiencing the world. Alex's perspective is valued and respected, and her needs are presented as legitimate rather than burdensome. This approach challenges common narratives about disability while providing young readers with a more inclusive worldview.

Issues of economic disparity and educational inequality emerge through Jenae's school experiences and her observations about her neighborhood. Ramée doesn't heavy-handedly address these issues but allows them to emerge naturally through the character's lived experience. The contrast between Jenae's public school and the resources available to families with different economic circumstances provides subtle but important social commentary.

The theme of identity formation is explored through Jenae's struggle to define herself outside of her role as "Alex's sister." This universal challenge of establishing individual identity while maintaining family connections resonates beyond the specific circumstances of the story. Ramée shows how healthy identity development requires both differentiation from and connection to family members.

The novel also addresses themes of friendship, loyalty, and the courage required to stand up for others. Through various playground conflicts and social situations, Ramée explores how children develop moral reasoning and learn to navigate complex social hierarchies while maintaining their integrity.

Frequently Asked Questions

Story Fundamentals

What is "Something to Say" by Lisa Moore Ramée about?

"Something to Say" follows eleven-year-old Jenae, who has a stutter and struggles with speaking up at school and home. When her family moves from Philadelphia to Brooklyn, Jenae faces new challenges including bullying, making friends, and finding her voice. The story centers on her journey of self-acceptance and discovering that having something important to say matters more than how perfectly you say it. Through various experiences including joining the debate team and standing up to a bully named Aubrey, Jenae learns to embrace her differences and find confidence in her unique perspective. The novel explores themes of family dynamics, friendship, and the power of perseverance in overcoming personal challenges.

Who are the main characters in the book?

The protagonist is Jenae, an eleven-year-old girl with a stutter who moves to Brooklyn with her family. Her younger brother Jalen is athletic and popular, creating a contrast with Jenae's struggles. Their parents play important supporting roles, particularly in helping Jenae navigate her challenges. At school, Jenae encounters Aubrey, a bully who targets her speech impediment, and gradually forms friendships with classmates who accept her for who she is. Ms. Williams, Jenae's teacher, serves as a mentor figure who encourages her to join activities like the debate team. Each character represents different aspects of Jenae's world, from family support to social challenges, helping to create a realistic portrayal of a middle schooler's experience.

Where and when does the story take place?

The story is set in contemporary Brooklyn, New York, after Jenae's family relocates from Philadelphia. The urban setting plays a significant role in the narrative, as Jenae must adapt to a new neighborhood, school, and social environment. The time period is modern day, reflecting current middle school experiences with technology, social dynamics, and educational approaches. Brooklyn's diverse community provides a backdrop for exploring themes of belonging and identity. The school environment, including classrooms, cafeterias, and after-school activities, serves as the primary setting where most of Jenae's character development occurs. The contrast between her old life in Philadelphia and her new life in Brooklyn emphasizes the challenges of starting over while dealing with personal insecurities.

What genre is "Something to Say" and who is the target audience?

"Something to Say" is a middle-grade contemporary realistic fiction novel. The book is primarily targeted at readers aged 8-12, particularly those in grades 4-7. However, it appeals to anyone interested in stories about overcoming challenges, finding one's voice, and dealing with differences. The realistic portrayal of middle school experiences, family dynamics, and social pressures makes it relatable to young readers facing similar situations. The book is especially valuable for children who stutter or have other speech differences, as well as their families and classmates, providing representation and understanding. Teachers and librarians often recommend it for discussions about empathy, bullying prevention, and celebrating diversity in the classroom.

How does the story begin and end?

The story begins with Jenae feeling anxious about starting at a new school in Brooklyn, worried about how her stutter will affect her ability to make friends and participate in class. She's reluctant to speak up and often feels overshadowed by her more confident younger brother. The novel concludes with Jenae having found her voice and confidence, successfully participating in the debate team and standing up for herself and others. She realizes that her perspective and ideas are valuable, regardless of how she delivers them. The ending shows her growth from a girl who avoided speaking to someone who understands that having something meaningful to say is more important than saying it perfectly, demonstrating her journey toward self-acceptance and empowerment.

Character Psychology

How does Jenae's stutter affect her daily life and relationships?

Jenae's stutter significantly impacts her confidence and willingness to participate in social situations. She often chooses silence over the risk of stuttering in front of others, which affects her ability to form friendships and express her thoughts in class. The stutter creates anxiety around speaking situations, causing her to avoid raising her hand or joining conversations. Her relationship with her brother is complicated by feelings of inadequacy, as Jalen speaks easily and makes friends quickly. At home, her parents try to be supportive, but Jenae sometimes feels their concern adds pressure. The stutter also makes her vulnerable to bullying, particularly from Aubrey, who mocks her speech. However, as the story progresses, Jenae learns that her stutter doesn't define her worth or limit her ability to contribute meaningfully to conversations and relationships.

What motivates Jenae to join the debate team despite her speech challenges?

Jenae's decision to join the debate team represents a pivotal moment in her character development and is motivated by several factors. Ms. Williams recognizes Jenae's intelligence and thoughtful perspectives, encouraging her to consider that her ideas are valuable regardless of her stutter. Jenae becomes passionate about topics that matter to her and realizes she has important things to say about issues affecting her community and peers. Her growing frustration with staying silent when she disagrees with others, particularly regarding unfair treatment or important social issues, pushes her to overcome her fear. The supportive environment created by Ms. Williams and some classmates gives her courage to try. Additionally, witnessing injustices and having strong opinions about them makes her realize that her voice, even with a stutter, deserves to be heard when advocating for what's right.

How does the relationship between Jenae and her brother Jalen evolve?

Initially, Jenae feels overshadowed by Jalen's natural ease in social situations and his quick adaptation to their new school. She sometimes resents how easily he makes friends and speaks up, which highlights her own struggles with her stutter. Jalen, being younger, doesn't always understand the depth of Jenae's challenges and occasionally shows impatience with her hesitation to speak. However, as the story progresses, their relationship deepens when Jalen begins to recognize and appreciate Jenae's unique strengths and perspectives. He starts defending her against bullies and showing pride in her accomplishments, particularly when she joins the debate team. By the end of the novel, they develop a more balanced sibling relationship based on mutual respect and understanding, with Jalen learning to value Jenae's thoughtful nature and Jenae gaining confidence in her own worth.

What role do Jenae's parents play in her journey of self-acceptance?

Jenae's parents serve as a foundation of support throughout her journey, though their approach evolves as they learn how to best help her. Initially, they focus on practical support like speech therapy and encouraging her to practice speaking at home. However, they sometimes inadvertently add pressure by being overly concerned about her stutter or suggesting she should just "try harder" to speak clearly. As the story progresses, they learn to celebrate her ideas and perspectives rather than focusing solely on her speech patterns. They begin to understand that their daughter needs validation for her thoughts and contributions, not just encouragement to speak more fluently. Their support becomes more meaningful when they recognize her intelligence and value her voice, helping her realize that her family sees her as capable and important regardless of her stutter.

How does Aubrey function as an antagonist, and what does she represent?

Aubrey serves as the primary antagonist by targeting Jenae's stutter and creating a hostile environment that amplifies Jenae's insecurities. She represents the cruel reality of bullying that many children with differences face, particularly those with visible or audible differences like stuttering. Aubrey's behavior reflects society's sometimes harsh treatment of people who don't fit conventional expectations of "normal" communication. Her bullying forces Jenae to confront her fears and ultimately find the strength to stand up for herself. Aubrey also represents the ignorance and lack of empathy that can exist among peers, showing how some people react to differences with cruelty rather than understanding. Through her interactions with Aubrey, Jenae learns that she cannot control others' reactions but can control her own response and refuse to let someone else's narrow-mindedness diminish her self-worth.

Themes & Analysis

What is the main theme of "Something to Say"?

The central theme of "Something to Say" is finding and valuing one's voice despite perceived imperfections or differences. The novel emphasizes that having something meaningful to contribute is more important than how perfectly it's delivered. Through Jenae's journey, readers learn that everyone deserves to be heard and that different ways of communicating don't diminish the value of one's thoughts and perspectives. The book explores how self-acceptance and confidence develop not from becoming "perfect" but from recognizing one's inherent worth. It demonstrates that true communication comes from authenticity and courage rather than flawless delivery. The theme extends beyond stuttering to encompass any situation where someone feels different or struggles to express themselves, making it universally relatable for readers facing their own challenges in finding their voice.

How does the book address the theme of belonging and acceptance?

The novel explores belonging through Jenae's experience of being new to Brooklyn and feeling like an outsider due to her stutter. Initially, she struggles to find her place in the new school environment, feeling disconnected from classmates who seem to communicate effortlessly. The theme develops as Jenae discovers that true belonging comes from being accepted for who she is, not from changing herself to fit in. Through supportive relationships with Ms. Williams and eventual friendships with understanding classmates, she learns that genuine acceptance exists when people value her thoughts and character rather than judging her speech. The book shows that belonging isn't about being the same as everyone else but about finding communities where differences are respected and valued. Jenae's journey illustrates that self-acceptance is often the first step toward finding acceptance from others.

What does the book teach about bullying and standing up for oneself?

The novel addresses bullying through Aubrey's treatment of Jenae, showing how bullies often target perceived weaknesses or differences. The book demonstrates that bullying thrives when targets remain silent and feel powerless, but it can be confronted when victims find their courage and voice. Jenae's journey shows that standing up for oneself doesn't require perfection or aggression; it requires conviction and the willingness to speak truth even when it's difficult. The story illustrates that bystanders have power too, as Jenae eventually stands up not just for herself but for others being treated unfairly. The book teaches that bullying often stems from the bully's own insecurities and need for power, and that refusing to be diminished by someone else's cruelty is a form of strength. It emphasizes that everyone deserves respect regardless of their differences.

How does the novel explore family dynamics and support systems?

The book examines family relationships through the lens of how families can both support and inadvertently pressure children with differences. Jenae's family loves her but initially focuses too much on "fixing" her stutter rather than celebrating her strengths. The novel shows how well-meaning family members can sometimes add stress by emphasizing what they perceive as problems rather than recognizing the child's inherent value. As the story progresses, the family learns to provide better support by validating Jenae's thoughts and perspectives rather than just her speech patterns. The relationship between Jenae and Jalen illustrates typical sibling dynamics complicated by differing abilities and social ease. The book demonstrates that strong family support involves accepting and celebrating each member's unique qualities while providing encouragement without pressure to change fundamental aspects of who they are.

What role does education and teachers play in the story?

Education and teachers, particularly Ms. Williams, play crucial roles in Jenae's development and self-discovery. Ms. Williams represents the ideal educator who sees beyond Jenae's stutter to recognize her intelligence, thoughtfulness, and potential contributions. She creates a classroom environment where Jenae feels safe to participate and encourages her to join the debate team, recognizing that Jenae has valuable perspectives to share. The school setting provides both challenges and opportunities, from the negative experience with bullying to the positive growth through academic participation. The novel demonstrates how educators can either perpetuate students' insecurities or help them discover their strengths. Ms. Williams shows how teachers can be advocates for students with differences, helping them find ways to shine rather than trying to make them fit a narrow definition of success. The classroom becomes a space for growth and empowerment rather than just academic learning.

Critical Interpretation

How does Lisa Moore Ramée use stuttering as a metaphor in the novel?

Ramée uses stuttering as a metaphor for any way people feel different or struggle to express themselves authentically. While Jenae's stutter is a real speech difference, it also represents the universal experience of feeling like your voice doesn't matter or that you don't communicate in the "right" way. The stutter symbolizes the barriers people create for themselves when they believe their differences make them less valuable or worthy of being heard. Through Jenae's journey, the author shows that these perceived limitations often exist more in our minds than in reality, and that our unique perspectives are valuable regardless of how we deliver them. The stutter becomes a vehicle for exploring themes of self-acceptance, courage, and the importance of speaking up for what matters. It represents how society often focuses on form over substance, missing the valuable content because of superficial differences in delivery.

What literary devices does the author use to develop Jenae's character?

Ramée employs several literary devices to create a rich character development arc for Jenae. Internal monologue reveals Jenae's thought processes, anxieties, and growing confidence, allowing readers to understand her perspective intimately. The author uses contrasts between Jenae and Jalen to highlight her struggles while also showing her unique strengths. Symbolism appears in Jenae's growing willingness to raise her hand and speak up, representing her journey toward self-advocacy. The debate team serves as a metaphor for finding one's voice and fighting for what matters. Ramée uses realistic dialogue that authentically portrays both Jenae's stuttering and her intelligent observations. The progression from silence to speaking up creates a clear character arc that shows growth without suggesting Jenae needs to change her fundamental nature. The author also uses setting changes from Philadelphia to Brooklyn to mirror Jenae's internal journey toward a new sense of self.

How does the book contribute to representation in children's literature?

The novel makes significant contributions to representation by featuring a protagonist with a stutter, which is rarely portrayed authentically in children's literature. Ramée presents stuttering not as something to be ashamed of or "cured" but as one aspect of a complex, intelligent, and valuable person. The book provides representation for children who stutter, helping them see themselves as protagonists capable of growth and success. It also educates readers without stutters about the experience, promoting empathy and understanding. The African American family setting adds to cultural representation, showing diverse family dynamics and community experiences. The novel avoids stereotypes by presenting Jenae as a fully developed character whose stutter is just one part of her identity, not her defining characteristic. This representation helps normalize differences and shows that heroes in literature can have various challenges while still being strong, capable, and worthy of having their stories told.

What makes this book effective for teaching empathy and inclusion?

The book effectively teaches empathy by allowing readers to experience the world through Jenae's perspective, understanding her frustrations, fears, and triumphs. Readers gain insight into how everyday situations can be challenging for someone with a stutter, from ordering food to participating in class discussions. The novel shows the impact of both negative responses (like Aubrey's bullying) and positive responses (like Ms. Williams's encouragement) on someone with differences. It demonstrates that inclusion isn't just about being nice but about genuinely valuing what each person brings to the community. The realistic portrayal helps readers understand that people with differences want to be seen for their whole selves, not defined by their challenges. The book shows how small acts of acceptance and encouragement can make enormous differences in someone's life, while also illustrating how exclusion and mockery cause real harm.

How does the ending resolve the central conflicts in a meaningful way?

The ending provides meaningful resolution by showing Jenae's growth without suggesting she has "overcome" her stutter or become someone different. Instead, she has learned to value her voice and perspectives regardless of how she delivers them. Her success in the debate team demonstrates that she can contribute meaningfully to important conversations, fulfilling the promise of the title by truly having "something to say." The resolution with Aubrey shows Jenae standing up for herself and others, indicating her newfound confidence and moral courage. Her improved relationship with Jalen reflects a more balanced family dynamic where both children's strengths are recognized. The ending doesn't present a fairy-tale transformation but rather a realistic growth in self-acceptance and confidence. Jenae's journey concludes