Speak up!

heart-warming · thought-provoking · uplifting · inclusive

Genres

What is Speak up! about?

Twelve-year-old Mia struggles to be herself at school, where classmates misunderstand her autism and bullies make her feel small. But online, she is Elle-Q, a popular singer whose honest songs reach thousands of listeners. With her best friend Charlie creating the music, Mia must decide whether to perform at a local talent show. Facing the audience—and her fears—could help Mia find her voice, stand up for herself and show everyone who she really is.

About the author

Rebecca Burgess is a UK comic artist, illustrator and author who loves telling stories through lively pictures and words. Their graphic novel Speak Up! follows Mia, a young singer finding the confidence to share her voice. Rebecca has also illustrated several children’s books and guides, bringing warmth, humour and energy to every page. They enjoy history, role-playing games, gardening and drawing comics, often finding inspiration in everyday life and the people, places and ideas around them.