What do you think?
Rate this book
Speak Up!: A Graphic Novel
For fans of Click and Brave, this touching coming-of-age middle grade graphic novel debut follows an autistic girl who finds friendship where she least expects it and learns to express her true self in a world where everyone defines her by her differences.
Twelve-year-old Mia is just trying to navigate a world that doesn’t understand her true autistic self. While she wishes she could stand up to her bullies, she’s always been able to express her feelings through singing and songwriting, even more so with her best friend, Charlie, who is nonbinary, putting together the best beats for her.
Together, they've taken the internet by storm; little do Mia’s classmates know that she’s the viral singer Elle-Q! But while the chance to perform live for a local talent show has Charlie excited, Mia isn’t so sure.
She’ll have to decide whether she’ll let her worries about what other people think get in the way of not only her friendship with Charlie, but also showing everyone, including the bullies, who she is and what she has to say.
272 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2022
61 people are currently reading
5061 people want to read
About the author
Rebecca Burgess
7 books78 followersRebecca Burgess is a full-time autistic illustrator who identifies as asexual. Their comics have been featured in The Guardian, and they love telling stories. How to Be Ace is their first book.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 248 reviews
Read
December 21, 2022Speak Up! is a middle grade graphic novel about Mia, an autistic girl, written by Rebecca Burgess, an autistic author and illustrator. Mia has some struggles at school with friendship and fitting in, like many middle schoolers, plus some additional challenges because the other students don't understand Mia's autism and she isn't able to express her true self. Through the story, Mia learns to stand up for herself, the power of friendship, and the importance of expressing her true, authentic self.
Good for readers who enjoy Raina Telgemeier's Smile, Guts, or Sisters; Shannon Hale's Friends series; or Maria Scrivan's Nat Enough series.
-Diana F.
Good for readers who enjoy Raina Telgemeier's Smile, Guts, or Sisters; Shannon Hale's Friends series; or Maria Scrivan's Nat Enough series.
-Diana F.
February 7, 2023
I went into this blind and was pleasantly surprised. The representation is fantastic and I felt like I gleaned a lot of insight about autism. Being an introvert who often has problems with voicing how I feel, I could empathise with Mia and enjoyed following her journey of self-love and acceptance.
I loved Mia and Charlie's friendship; how they were both not without vulnerabilities but showed up for each other. I also appreciated getting to hear very different perspectives from Mia, her mother and Laura. The contrast between Mia and her mom is striking as the latter has good but ill-advised intentions about wanting to help Mia 'fit in' and be more 'normal', while Mia is happy to be left alone.
The artwork is rich, vibrant and quite the visual feast. Although it's classified as middle-grade, I think my adults will benefit from this graphic novel too. An enjoyable and illuminating read overall!
I loved Mia and Charlie's friendship; how they were both not without vulnerabilities but showed up for each other. I also appreciated getting to hear very different perspectives from Mia, her mother and Laura. The contrast between Mia and her mom is striking as the latter has good but ill-advised intentions about wanting to help Mia 'fit in' and be more 'normal', while Mia is happy to be left alone.
The artwork is rich, vibrant and quite the visual feast. Although it's classified as middle-grade, I think my adults will benefit from this graphic novel too. An enjoyable and illuminating read overall!
August 22, 2022
Thank you to Kismet Books for the arc! If you're a book lover in the Wisconsin area, drop into Verona and give them a browse!
I read and enjoyed Rebecca Burgess' HOW TO BE ACE last year and so when I heard that they were writing a graphic novel about an autistic girl with a musician alter-ego, I knew I had to give it a read! Burgess' art style is cute, although not my favorite, and the coloring (in the few colored pages of the arc) was very nice.
Mia was a relatable lead to follow and I loved the music aspect. Her best friend and musical collaborator Charlie was also fun, and I liked that Mia's autism was never used as an excuse when she was unintentionally hurting Charlie. Mia's relationship with her mom was unfortunately relatable and I'm glad that the book didn't gloss over the harder parts of autism--a lot of the bits surrounding meltdowns and outbursts and how in the moment an outburst can feel satisfying but then is instantly followed by a crushing sense of regret hit home for me. Mia's lyrics, while sometimes a bit on the nose, were well-written without feeling too good for a 12 year old to write. The "do you know where I was born? it doesn't matter now" song was genuinely super lyrically beautiful and I'd love to hear it as a real song!
I wasn't super found of the Laura plotline, though, mainly because she was so cruel to Mia at the start and bullied her because of her autism and no matter how much of an Elle-Q fan she is, I just couldn't overlook that. I am generally fond of characters unlearning their biases in books but in this case it felt rushed--especially towards the end.
Nevertheless, this was a cute read and one that--in my opinion anyways--was a very good depiction of autism.
I read and enjoyed Rebecca Burgess' HOW TO BE ACE last year and so when I heard that they were writing a graphic novel about an autistic girl with a musician alter-ego, I knew I had to give it a read! Burgess' art style is cute, although not my favorite, and the coloring (in the few colored pages of the arc) was very nice.
Mia was a relatable lead to follow and I loved the music aspect. Her best friend and musical collaborator Charlie was also fun, and I liked that Mia's autism was never used as an excuse when she was unintentionally hurting Charlie. Mia's relationship with her mom was unfortunately relatable and I'm glad that the book didn't gloss over the harder parts of autism--a lot of the bits surrounding meltdowns and outbursts and how in the moment an outburst can feel satisfying but then is instantly followed by a crushing sense of regret hit home for me. Mia's lyrics, while sometimes a bit on the nose, were well-written without feeling too good for a 12 year old to write. The "do you know where I was born? it doesn't matter now" song was genuinely super lyrically beautiful and I'd love to hear it as a real song!
I wasn't super found of the Laura plotline, though, mainly because she was so cruel to Mia at the start and bullied her because of her autism and no matter how much of an Elle-Q fan she is, I just couldn't overlook that. I am generally fond of characters unlearning their biases in books but in this case it felt rushed--especially towards the end.
Nevertheless, this was a cute read and one that--in my opinion anyways--was a very good depiction of autism.
March 9, 2024
3.50 ★
i adored this mg contemporary graphic novel! i loved the message & themes about disability pride and advocating for yourself ♡
➸ Trigger warnings for .
▷ Representation: autistic protagonist; Black nonbinary sc who uses they/them pronouns.
Blog • Trigger Warning Database • StoryGraph
i adored this mg contemporary graphic novel! i loved the message & themes about disability pride and advocating for yourself ♡
➸ Trigger warnings for .
▷ Representation: autistic protagonist; Black nonbinary sc who uses they/them pronouns.
Blog • Trigger Warning Database • StoryGraph
April 19, 2023
Having been diagnosed with high functioning autism last year, it was like pieces falling into place and putting some things into perspective.
It makes you feel less alone, and things people told you you did wrong or wasn't normal (even though they didn't mean it mean, it made you feel like crap) .. was just part of the puzzle that is me.
And explains one major thing for me as well. Plus, the way I don't feel emotions like others..used to think I was broken..or defective.
I felt seen with this book and saw parts of myself in Mia. I just wanted to jump in the book and hang out with her.
Definitely would love to hear her songs in real life, especially the last one.
Loved the friendship between Mia and Charlie, reminded me of my close circle.
The Laura stuff started out okay but was a bit rushed at the end but was also sweet.
Wouldn't mind seeing how everyone is doing after this, even though ended perfectly 👌.
Would recommend and will definitely be buying this as gifts for others!
It makes you feel less alone, and things people told you you did wrong or wasn't normal (even though they didn't mean it mean, it made you feel like crap) .. was just part of the puzzle that is me.
And explains one major thing for me as well. Plus, the way I don't feel emotions like others..used to think I was broken..or defective.
I felt seen with this book and saw parts of myself in Mia. I just wanted to jump in the book and hang out with her.
Definitely would love to hear her songs in real life, especially the last one.
Loved the friendship between Mia and Charlie, reminded me of my close circle.
The Laura stuff started out okay but was a bit rushed at the end but was also sweet.
Wouldn't mind seeing how everyone is doing after this, even though ended perfectly 👌.
Would recommend and will definitely be buying this as gifts for others!
May 18, 2022
** I received an ARC of this book from the publisher, because I am a librarian and librarians are awesome**
Autistic pre-teen with a secret identity as an online pop-star? Sign me up!
Mia has an autism diagnosis and is regularly the target of school bullying. But she's also the face and voice of pop-star alter-ego Elle-Q alongside her musically gifted friend Charlie (they/them). Will Charlie convince her to perform in a local talent show? Will bullies Laura and Jess reform? And who is the online superfan Ellefan?
Like many middle-grade/middle school centric realistic books, this had a heavy focus on mean-girlism and bullying, with relatively straightforward parent drama. (Mia's mom is focused on subduing Mia's autism/making her more normal, while Mia doesn't understand why her mom can't just let her be herself).
The thing that I loved about this book was Mia's strong identity. Yes, the self-acceptance message was hammered in to the reader throughout the narrative in a very middle-grade fashion. Autism made certain things in Mia's life challenging (concerts!), but it didn't limit her happiness, and she didn't want to change herself. I really appreciated friendship struggles that will ring true with middle school kids, the depiction of female autism ("Not everyone who's autistic can't read emotions, Laura"), as well as the presented-without-comment non-binary Charlie.
This will have high appeal for kids who like realistic graphic novels.
Autistic pre-teen with a secret identity as an online pop-star? Sign me up!
Mia has an autism diagnosis and is regularly the target of school bullying. But she's also the face and voice of pop-star alter-ego Elle-Q alongside her musically gifted friend Charlie (they/them). Will Charlie convince her to perform in a local talent show? Will bullies Laura and Jess reform? And who is the online superfan Ellefan?
Like many middle-grade/middle school centric realistic books, this had a heavy focus on mean-girlism and bullying, with relatively straightforward parent drama. (Mia's mom is focused on subduing Mia's autism/making her more normal, while Mia doesn't understand why her mom can't just let her be herself).
The thing that I loved about this book was Mia's strong identity. Yes, the self-acceptance message was hammered in to the reader throughout the narrative in a very middle-grade fashion. Autism made certain things in Mia's life challenging (concerts!), but it didn't limit her happiness, and she didn't want to change herself. I really appreciated friendship struggles that will ring true with middle school kids, the depiction of female autism ("Not everyone who's autistic can't read emotions, Laura"), as well as the presented-without-comment non-binary Charlie.
This will have high appeal for kids who like realistic graphic novels.
March 6, 2024
Could an autistic girl be the superhero of a story? Yes, she can in this story that also features a character whose pronouns are they/them/theirs. At school, Mia struggles. At home with her childhood friend Charlie who attends a different school, she thrives. Together the two create what some might consider an alter ego in ElleQ, a singer/song writing duo that goes viral. I really liked that a character with autism got to be the main character and that an LGBTQ+ character was the supporting player.
Tweens and young teens who like graphic novels about friendship and school or those who like #representationmatters stories.
Tweens and young teens who like graphic novels about friendship and school or those who like #representationmatters stories.
June 26, 2022
"I like this book because it tells you how much you need to speak of because when you don't speak up things can get stolen and stuff like that. I didn't like that she didn't speak up at first and it made her life more miserable. And then when she spoke up she was basically the queen of the school and she didn't get made fun of again." -Cadee, age 10
April 27, 2023
This was very cute! I loved the illustrations and of course the autistic rep. It also gave me a bit of insight into how it would've looked like for me if I'd known I was autistic as a teenager regarding the massive anxiety before any auditions/performances.
November 16, 2022
This graphic novel has a lot of appealing elements, but the plot line surrounding the autistic main character's secret identity as an online music sensation was total wish fulfillment, and it only got less realistic as the story went on. It also bothered me that the bullying was so blatant at school without any adults acknowledging it or responding to it. That can be realistic, unfortunately, but I wish that books that have prolonged, upsetting sequences related to bullying would model some way to deal with it. Here, it seems like the way to overcome bullying is to be a secret music star, and that's not going to be helpful to autistic or neurotypical kids in the same situation.
June 3, 2023
cute, but a bit too simplistic for me personally
August 9, 2023
Be like Mia! Be yourself… be brave! Wonderful middle grade graphic novel!
May 3, 2023
This was such an inspiring empowering book. Autism is something that is very relevant to my family and seeing Mia learn to be brave and stand up for herself and own her differences and leverage them to her advantage was really beautiful to watch.
Seeing how Mia and her mom interact was a bit of an eye-opener for me. I try really hard not to be an 'autism mom' because I am autistic too, as is my husband, but I've seen all those books and websites and experts with their (probably) well-meaning advice and I'm sure I've managed to pick up some of it without realizing while trying to help my autistic kiddo. They are 9, now, to Mia's 11, but have lately begun to show similarities.
It was a weird experience, reading this, because I recognize a whole lot of myself in Mia, but I recognize a whole whole lot of my kiddo too. And I recognize a bit of myself in her mom. And it's actually sort of difficult to relate to a character and their mom at the same time when they are in conflict for much of the book lol. It was an experience for sure.
I will definitely be handing this book to my kiddo to read in a year or two, or maybe reading it to them now? I'm not sure. Maybe both. I think they will get a *lot* out of it. I think *I* would have gotten a lot out of it, if I'd had it available to me in middle school.
This is something that every library and upper-elementary and middle school classroom should have on their shelves.
Seeing how Mia and her mom interact was a bit of an eye-opener for me. I try really hard not to be an 'autism mom' because I am autistic too, as is my husband, but I've seen all those books and websites and experts with their (probably) well-meaning advice and I'm sure I've managed to pick up some of it without realizing while trying to help my autistic kiddo. They are 9, now, to Mia's 11, but have lately begun to show similarities.
It was a weird experience, reading this, because I recognize a whole lot of myself in Mia, but I recognize a whole whole lot of my kiddo too. And I recognize a bit of myself in her mom. And it's actually sort of difficult to relate to a character and their mom at the same time when they are in conflict for much of the book lol. It was an experience for sure.
I will definitely be handing this book to my kiddo to read in a year or two, or maybe reading it to them now? I'm not sure. Maybe both. I think they will get a *lot* out of it. I think *I* would have gotten a lot out of it, if I'd had it available to me in middle school.
This is something that every library and upper-elementary and middle school classroom should have on their shelves.
January 22, 2023
Shades of Hannah Montana!
Elle-Q is a viral internet singing sensation who has all the kids at Rainham Middle School excited for her every upload. Unknown to the students, Elle-Q's secret identity is Mia Tabolt, an autistic classmate who largely goes unnoticed except when she is being bullied by mean girls.
The plot is a bit standard -- best friend conflict, enemies to friends, playing in the big talent show -- but having the protagonist provide insight about living on the spectrum gives everything a fresh feel.
Good work from an #OwnVoices creator who is improving with each book. (See also: How to Be Ace: A Memoir of Growing Up Asexual.)
Elle-Q is a viral internet singing sensation who has all the kids at Rainham Middle School excited for her every upload. Unknown to the students, Elle-Q's secret identity is Mia Tabolt, an autistic classmate who largely goes unnoticed except when she is being bullied by mean girls.
The plot is a bit standard -- best friend conflict, enemies to friends, playing in the big talent show -- but having the protagonist provide insight about living on the spectrum gives everything a fresh feel.
Good work from an #OwnVoices creator who is improving with each book. (See also: How to Be Ace: A Memoir of Growing Up Asexual.)
October 12, 2022
[Copy gifted to me by the author, thank you so much.]
Where do I even begin to start with this one. As an autistic musician who spent so much of her life not knowing whether or not she could make the things she wanted, who struggled badly with making and maintaining friendships, and who has struggled more than a few times with getting family to see things the way you do, this story means everything to me.
So rarely do we, as neurodiverse people, get to tell our own stories. Even less do we get to see those stories in visual art fiction where the representation hasn't been made more marketable, that a character's autistic traits are reduced to eye-contact and special interests. We deserve to tell our own stories in our own way using our own language. Rebecca Burgess has always possessed a profound ability to do this like in their last long-form published work centered around diversity How to Be Ace: A Memoir of Growing Up Asexual (2022). Burgess's openness and honesty is imbued into every aspect of that story, autobiographical in nature as it was, but here in Speak Up! we find that honesty and real-experience-now-fictionalised seeping out of the pages, all beautifully illustrated in their wonderfully recognisable style.
The autistic representation is stellar, as is expected when an autistic person gets to share their own story, but any story written by a queer person with such a diversity in range as this storyteller is bound to be effortlessly diverse, and of course this is no exception. This comics pages have queer identity splashed across every page from front to back. There are not just white characters here. There are not just cis-het characters here. There are not just able-bodied people here. I cannot more readily offer another example of a comic that I could offer to someone to see what diversity can look like in comics. Everything is intentional and nothing feels out of place.
I cannot more heartily recommend this comic, it is an absolute triumph, and you should pick up a copy at your local bookstore whenever it becomes available!
This part of the review was all spoiler-free! Spoilers will now be posted under the cut.
SPOILERS SECTION
Where do I even begin to start with this one. As an autistic musician who spent so much of her life not knowing whether or not she could make the things she wanted, who struggled badly with making and maintaining friendships, and who has struggled more than a few times with getting family to see things the way you do, this story means everything to me.
So rarely do we, as neurodiverse people, get to tell our own stories. Even less do we get to see those stories in visual art fiction where the representation hasn't been made more marketable, that a character's autistic traits are reduced to eye-contact and special interests. We deserve to tell our own stories in our own way using our own language. Rebecca Burgess has always possessed a profound ability to do this like in their last long-form published work centered around diversity How to Be Ace: A Memoir of Growing Up Asexual (2022). Burgess's openness and honesty is imbued into every aspect of that story, autobiographical in nature as it was, but here in Speak Up! we find that honesty and real-experience-now-fictionalised seeping out of the pages, all beautifully illustrated in their wonderfully recognisable style.
The autistic representation is stellar, as is expected when an autistic person gets to share their own story, but any story written by a queer person with such a diversity in range as this storyteller is bound to be effortlessly diverse, and of course this is no exception. This comics pages have queer identity splashed across every page from front to back. There are not just white characters here. There are not just cis-het characters here. There are not just able-bodied people here. I cannot more readily offer another example of a comic that I could offer to someone to see what diversity can look like in comics. Everything is intentional and nothing feels out of place.
I cannot more heartily recommend this comic, it is an absolute triumph, and you should pick up a copy at your local bookstore whenever it becomes available!
This part of the review was all spoiler-free! Spoilers will now be posted under the cut.
SPOILERS SECTION
December 24, 2022
An amazing graphic novel about speaking up. Not only does it have amazing character representation, but it’s a book that anyone can relate to. Those moments where you felt stuck, you didn’t know what to say or if you felt like you couldn’t say what you wanted to say and instead you held it in.
This is a great graphic novel for young middle grade, kids. It’s easy to read, the pictures are details yet simple and I will be putting this one in my own classroom and hoping my students will love it just as much as I do.
This is a great graphic novel for young middle grade, kids. It’s easy to read, the pictures are details yet simple and I will be putting this one in my own classroom and hoping my students will love it just as much as I do.
January 25, 2025
Speak Up!
Overall Rating: ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ (3/5) or 6.42/10 overall
Characters - 7
Atmosphere - 7
Writing - 6
Plot - 6
Intrigue - 7
Logic - 6
Enjoyment - 6
Overall Rating: ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ (3/5) or 6.42/10 overall
Characters - 7
Atmosphere - 7
Writing - 6
Plot - 6
Intrigue - 7
Logic - 6
Enjoyment - 6
April 27, 2024
This was a fascinating look at autism from an autistic girl's perspective as she navigates friends, school, bullies, and life. I learned a lot. Highly recommend.
January 22, 2025
i feel like the idea behind it was very wholesome and generally good but the execution was a little...
February 20, 2024
What an important and fabulous story to tell! The ending was beyond delightful. Weirdly, I struggled to get into the story for the first 2/3 of the book. Maybe a pacing issue? I almost abandoned this one but I'm glad I didn't, because the last 1/3 was great and totally turned my opinion around! I think one of the most important storylines here for me as an adult reader is the relationship between Mia and her mom. I love how the story recognizes that mom hasn't always received high quality advice about parenting an autistic child, but still holds her accountable for learning, listening to Mia, and figuring out how to grow together.
June 5, 2022
Great graphic novel about standing up for yourself! Being your true self and not feeling like you have to 'fit in'!!
#bookposse
#bookposse
May 19, 2022
I received an ARC of this book from the publisher.
With her best friend Charlie, Mia has made a secret identity, a superhero singer called Elle-Q. But when one of their songs goes viral and a talent show opportunity arises, Mia has to choose between confronting her fears of showing her true autistic self on stage or hiding who she is forever. Through stage fright, bullying, and confronting the fears of her mother, Mia shows everyone she is her own superhero.
With her best friend Charlie, Mia has made a secret identity, a superhero singer called Elle-Q. But when one of their songs goes viral and a talent show opportunity arises, Mia has to choose between confronting her fears of showing her true autistic self on stage or hiding who she is forever. Through stage fright, bullying, and confronting the fears of her mother, Mia shows everyone she is her own superhero.
September 29, 2022
I'm super conflicted with this one. Overall, it's solid. Writing is good, artwork is amazing, and it's an #OwnVoice so that's always a plus. But... there's just a lot to unpack here.
I can understand where the mom is coming from in that autism can be a very scary diagnosis and that oftentimes parents are left without any help or resources. But SURELY she should understand that what she is doing is so unbelievably harmful and unhelpful. It doesn't help that she's extremely volatile, going from "caring" to enraged to mean to "caring" again.
I also find it hard to believe that Mia has no accommodations at school whatsoever. I have to assume that would come from the mom just trying to force Mia to be "normal" (her words, not mine). I just feel like Mia is completely set up to fail.
Also, bullying is common, but how can these kids be THIS CRUEL without ANYONE catching on? Although the teachers' ignorance throughout told me that there are people, even those in power, who just don't actually seem to care. That was a little bit hard to swallow. Props for the talent show director for actually listening to Mia when she asked for accommodations for the show.
Idk, this book was kind of a bummer, but definitely has its uplifting moments. I just found myself cringing more than enjoying the story. But perhaps that was the point?
3 stars for being an overall "good" book with a likable main character (and side character, even though Charlie does some questionable things too but overall they are still likable). Every other character can piss off, tbh.
I can understand where the mom is coming from in that autism can be a very scary diagnosis and that oftentimes parents are left without any help or resources. But SURELY she should understand that what she is doing is so unbelievably harmful and unhelpful. It doesn't help that she's extremely volatile, going from "caring" to enraged to mean to "caring" again.
I also find it hard to believe that Mia has no accommodations at school whatsoever. I have to assume that would come from the mom just trying to force Mia to be "normal" (her words, not mine). I just feel like Mia is completely set up to fail.
Also, bullying is common, but how can these kids be THIS CRUEL without ANYONE catching on? Although the teachers' ignorance throughout told me that there are people, even those in power, who just don't actually seem to care. That was a little bit hard to swallow. Props for the talent show director for actually listening to Mia when she asked for accommodations for the show.
Idk, this book was kind of a bummer, but definitely has its uplifting moments. I just found myself cringing more than enjoying the story. But perhaps that was the point?
3 stars for being an overall "good" book with a likable main character (and side character, even though Charlie does some questionable things too but overall they are still likable). Every other character can piss off, tbh.
September 23, 2022
Thank you NetGalley and Quill Tree Book for the opportunity to read and review this book.
I really enjoyed this book! I’ll definitely have to check out the authors other books!
This was a really great graphic novel about Mia, a young autistic girl, and her best friend Charlie. They create an online alter ego for Mia to express herself and how she feels about her autism. What she doesn’t realize is how viral Elle-Q is going to go! Soon enough Elle-Q is the talk of Mias school. Will she reveal who she is to the school? Or keep it between Charlie and herself?
I received this ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
I really enjoyed this book! I’ll definitely have to check out the authors other books!
This was a really great graphic novel about Mia, a young autistic girl, and her best friend Charlie. They create an online alter ego for Mia to express herself and how she feels about her autism. What she doesn’t realize is how viral Elle-Q is going to go! Soon enough Elle-Q is the talk of Mias school. Will she reveal who she is to the school? Or keep it between Charlie and herself?
I received this ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
April 20, 2024
I saw someone recommend this book online and had added it to my wishlist, when it got discounted I picked up a copy and read it shortly afterwards. Speak Up follows Mia who is autistic, under the name Elle Q she makes music with her best friend Charlie. Charlie wants to participate in the talent show as Elle Q, but Mia isn't sure she wants that. Besides that the book also addresses bullying, Mia get bullied due to being autistic and she struggles to speak her mind when she gets bullied. Mia's mother wants her to act more typical, but Mia is happy with who she is and struggles to explain that to her mom. Then there is a new friend Mia makes as well. It might sound like there is a lot going on, but it didn't feel that way while reading. It all gets intertwined in a way that makes sense and I enjoyed reading about Mia and the other characters.
I really liked this graphic novel. I don't read a lot of graphic novels, but maybe I should read more of them as I like the combination of art and story. The art was well very done and looked good, I liked the style. I liked how all the characters had their own vibe and the colors looked good. I liked how the art really added something to the story. There are some scenes like Mia's meltdown or how Mia disappeared in her daydreams and music persona that were really well drawn.
The story and characters were both great too. I liked Mia and could relate to her due to being autistic myself. I liked the positive tone of the book, Mia was happy with who she was and that was awesome to see. The book has a very neurodivergent affirming tone and even despite being bullied Mia never feels bad about being autistic. That was wonderful to see. I liked seeing how all the plot lines got resolved. It has very much a happy ending for everyone and it gets neatly wrapped up with a powerful uplifting scene at the end. It just made me feel good and happy.
I really liked reading this book. It had so many wonderful elements. From seeing how Mia is authentically herself and how she deals with her struggles to her friendship with Charlie. I also thought Mia's relationship with her mom was well written, her mom obviously means well even though she goes about it wrongly and I liked how she understands Mia better at the end. Mia and Charlie are such good friends and I liked reading about them and how supportive they are of each other. I also appreciated the plot line surrounding one of Mia's bullies who just goes along with her friends, but doesn't really want to be mean to Mia. I liked how that part got resolved.
To summarize: I really like this graphic novel with an autistic main character. I liked the artwork and how it added to the story, it looked good and I enjoyed looking at the art. The story and characters are great too. There are multiple things going on, but it all blends together nicely. I liked reading about Mia and thought she felt relatable and realistic. I also really appreciated the positive and affirming tone of the book with how Mia is authentically herself and is happy with who she is despite her struggles. I liked seeing Mia interact with her friends Charlie and how supportive they are of each other. I liked how happy and uplifting the ending was and how it ends things on a high note.
I really liked this graphic novel. I don't read a lot of graphic novels, but maybe I should read more of them as I like the combination of art and story. The art was well very done and looked good, I liked the style. I liked how all the characters had their own vibe and the colors looked good. I liked how the art really added something to the story. There are some scenes like Mia's meltdown or how Mia disappeared in her daydreams and music persona that were really well drawn.
The story and characters were both great too. I liked Mia and could relate to her due to being autistic myself. I liked the positive tone of the book, Mia was happy with who she was and that was awesome to see. The book has a very neurodivergent affirming tone and even despite being bullied Mia never feels bad about being autistic. That was wonderful to see. I liked seeing how all the plot lines got resolved. It has very much a happy ending for everyone and it gets neatly wrapped up with a powerful uplifting scene at the end. It just made me feel good and happy.
I really liked reading this book. It had so many wonderful elements. From seeing how Mia is authentically herself and how she deals with her struggles to her friendship with Charlie. I also thought Mia's relationship with her mom was well written, her mom obviously means well even though she goes about it wrongly and I liked how she understands Mia better at the end. Mia and Charlie are such good friends and I liked reading about them and how supportive they are of each other. I also appreciated the plot line surrounding one of Mia's bullies who just goes along with her friends, but doesn't really want to be mean to Mia. I liked how that part got resolved.
To summarize: I really like this graphic novel with an autistic main character. I liked the artwork and how it added to the story, it looked good and I enjoyed looking at the art. The story and characters are great too. There are multiple things going on, but it all blends together nicely. I liked reading about Mia and thought she felt relatable and realistic. I also really appreciated the positive and affirming tone of the book with how Mia is authentically herself and is happy with who she is despite her struggles. I liked seeing Mia interact with her friends Charlie and how supportive they are of each other. I liked how happy and uplifting the ending was and how it ends things on a high note.
December 5, 2025
My youngest child has yet again given me a great reading recommendation. Speak Up! is a middle grade graphic novel about a girl named Mia, who gets bullied a lot because her classmates don't understand how her autism presents. But with her best friend, Charlie, Mia has an alter-ego - Elle-Q, a fearless singer whose videos have started going viral in their community. When a local talent show give Charlie and Mia a chance to do Elle-Q's first live performance, will Mia be able to work through her concerns about performing in front of others?
The friendship between Charlie and Mia is great, but what's even better is how realistically portrayed is the much more confusing relationship between Mia her classmate who's caught between going along with her other friends who bully Mia or acknowledging that she and Mia have some shared interests and might actually be friends. I also liked the nuanced relationship between Mia and her mom, who wants to support Mia, but doesn't understand how Mia wants to be supported.
This was just all-around a really well-written portrayal of a girl with autism.
The friendship between Charlie and Mia is great, but what's even better is how realistically portrayed is the much more confusing relationship between Mia her classmate who's caught between going along with her other friends who bully Mia or acknowledging that she and Mia have some shared interests and might actually be friends. I also liked the nuanced relationship between Mia and her mom, who wants to support Mia, but doesn't understand how Mia wants to be supported.
This was just all-around a really well-written portrayal of a girl with autism.
August 12, 2022
*4.25 Stars*
I was provided an ARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Speak Up! is a middle-grade graphic novel centering around Mia, an autistic 12 yo who doesn't have friends at school and has a secret identity as an online singer. We follow through new challenges, especially centered around her musician persona who her only friend and music partner want to see perform live. But also, her school life keeps being awful as people either bully or ignore her and she doesn't know how to react ton the very few friendly signs shown her way...
Speak Up! was captivating from beginning to end. I really loved Mia's perspective and struggles. I did not like her mother, I could tell she was kind of trying but also still doing all the wrong things and it made me very angry. I really really loved Mia's best friend, Charlie. They were such a light. I loved them from the start and it was captivating seeing them throughout the book.
There's still a couple things in the plot that I didn't love and that kept me from rating this five stars.
Still, I had a really good time reading this and I think a lot of people should read it. It's just so great to have this perspective on autism and what it means to be autistic. It is obviously just one perspective but it was still great.
All around, just a good time, that I will most likely buy a physical copy of and reread.
I really can't wait to read more Rebecca Burgess too. I am now addicted.
I was provided an ARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Speak Up! is a middle-grade graphic novel centering around Mia, an autistic 12 yo who doesn't have friends at school and has a secret identity as an online singer. We follow through new challenges, especially centered around her musician persona who her only friend and music partner want to see perform live. But also, her school life keeps being awful as people either bully or ignore her and she doesn't know how to react ton the very few friendly signs shown her way...
Speak Up! was captivating from beginning to end. I really loved Mia's perspective and struggles. I did not like her mother, I could tell she was kind of trying but also still doing all the wrong things and it made me very angry. I really really loved Mia's best friend, Charlie. They were such a light. I loved them from the start and it was captivating seeing them throughout the book.
There's still a couple things in the plot that I didn't love and that kept me from rating this five stars.
Still, I had a really good time reading this and I think a lot of people should read it. It's just so great to have this perspective on autism and what it means to be autistic. It is obviously just one perspective but it was still great.
All around, just a good time, that I will most likely buy a physical copy of and reread.
I really can't wait to read more Rebecca Burgess too. I am now addicted.
July 5, 2023
Read for Popsugar: A book that made you cry (in a good way!)
This story is really powerful and the ownvoices autism rep is so good - it doesn't gloss over things. We see Mia's struggle with sensory overload and find refuge in music. You know her mom means well, but seeing Mia learn to advocate for herself and show her mother her capabilities was really touching. I do feel like it ended a little sooner than I was expecting - I'd love to have an epilogue. Overall, I think this is a great story and I hope autistic readers can see themselves and neurotypical readers can gain some empathy from it - I know I did!
This story is really powerful and the ownvoices autism rep is so good - it doesn't gloss over things. We see Mia's struggle with sensory overload and find refuge in music. You know her mom means well, but seeing Mia learn to advocate for herself and show her mother her capabilities was really touching. I do feel like it ended a little sooner than I was expecting - I'd love to have an epilogue. Overall, I think this is a great story and I hope autistic readers can see themselves and neurotypical readers can gain some empathy from it - I know I did!
June 17, 2022
Speak Up! is a fantastic middle grade graphic novel about Mia and her alter-ego, music sensation Elle-Q. Mia is different from the other kids in school in that she is autistic, and through the course of the novel she learns to speak her truth and be herself authentically.
First of all, I'm so glad this graphic novel exists! I think a lot of kids will find camaraderie with Mia, as she deals with a lot of things all kids go through and also some things that autistic kids especially can relate to. I appreciated how colorful and yet easy to read the layout of the panels and each page was - it was definitely easier on my eyes and senses than a lot of other graphic novels can be, even those geared for younger audiences. And the characters were all great, too; I especially loved Charlie, Mia's best friend and "musical genius" behind Elle-Q's sound.
I'd highly recommend this for any autistic person, anyone who loves an autistic person, or anyone who just wants a feel-good graphic novel. This delivers on all fronts!
Thank you to Quill Tree Books and NetGalley for providing a copy for review.
First of all, I'm so glad this graphic novel exists! I think a lot of kids will find camaraderie with Mia, as she deals with a lot of things all kids go through and also some things that autistic kids especially can relate to. I appreciated how colorful and yet easy to read the layout of the panels and each page was - it was definitely easier on my eyes and senses than a lot of other graphic novels can be, even those geared for younger audiences. And the characters were all great, too; I especially loved Charlie, Mia's best friend and "musical genius" behind Elle-Q's sound.
I'd highly recommend this for any autistic person, anyone who loves an autistic person, or anyone who just wants a feel-good graphic novel. This delivers on all fronts!
Thank you to Quill Tree Books and NetGalley for providing a copy for review.
April 13, 2024
A fantastic #ownvoices middle grade graphic novel featuring Mia, an autistic pre-teen girl and her struggles with bullying at school and the way she finds her voice as her alter ego, Elle-Q, a hugely popular online singer who makes music with her nonbinary best friend Charlie.
This was such a relatable read that addresses stimming, masking, overprotective parents and the challenges of being proud of who you are just as you are. Highly recommended with great illustrations to boot, this is sure to delight Autistic and neurodiverse readers of all ages!
This was such a relatable read that addresses stimming, masking, overprotective parents and the challenges of being proud of who you are just as you are. Highly recommended with great illustrations to boot, this is sure to delight Autistic and neurodiverse readers of all ages!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 248 reviews