Say The Word

*Starred Review* from BOOKLIST: "...There are many issues at play in this powerful and compelling novel—gay rights, acceptance, shame, first love, domestic violence, harassment, depression—all swirling around Shawna, whose thoughts and emotions are not always politically correct, but are always genuine. This sensitive and heart-wrenching story slowly unfolds into a gripping read featuring realistically flawed characters who undergo genuine growth."

"An intense, frank novel with fragile, resilient, believable characters...this is a mature and gripping coming-of-age story.” – School Library Journal

“Garsee manages to give every character depth and dimension without falling into the trap of making the children too perfect and angelic and the adults imperfect to the point where the reader loses sympathy for them,... Readers will believe Shawna’s final transition from doormat to independent thinker.” – Kirkus Reviews

“Garsee’s second novel hits the ground running and doesn’t let up. ... A compelling portrait of a young woman growing up and coping with an overwhelming array of problems.” – Publishers Weekly

From the Publisher: "Shawna’s honest and relatable voice will draw readers in and hold them until the last page in this coming-of-age story. Jeannine Garsee has delivered a compulsively readable second novel, perfect for fans of Sarah Dessen and Laurie Halse Anderson."

"This well-written novel raises intricate questions about sexuality, family and the stigmas both can carry. Shawna's journey is emotionally evocative and thought-provoking." – Romantic Times Magazine