Silence is Goldfish

Tess has everything she could possibly need; loving parents, a best friend who can almost read her mind, great teachers, and an amazing ability to ignore all the haters. With this support system she can be anything, do anything, and go anywhere. So when just one brick in her wall is ripped away, Tess finds herself floundering in uncertainty. Suddenly the little voice in the back of her mind telling her she is different becomes a roar and, unable to deal with the fall out, she simply stops talking. Drifting further and further away from everything familiar she finds solace talking to an unusual ally - a bright orange goldfish torch - who has some surprisingly good advice.

This novel is both heart-breaking and hilarious. Tess is a fabulous protagonist, a strong, outgoing girl who tries her hardest to please those around her, yet one who deals with daily bullying on account of her size and unconventional looks. Her journey of self-discovery is incredibly difficult and you cannot help but cheer her on every step of the way. It is exceptionally well written and an absolute joy to read.