Silence Is Goldfish

Praise for Silence is Goldfish:* "Pitcher delivers a story of betrayal and miscues among family and friends with a realistic blend of humor and gravity as Tess slides toward mental instability. An unflinchingly honest portrayal of anguish."

* "Pitcher (My Sister Lives on the Mantelpiece) returns with a memorably offbeat novel narrated by 15-year-old Tess, who decides to stop speaking...It's a painful but rewarding story of an insecure teen finding her voice."

"Captivating...Tess's struggle as she discovers her parents and teachers are flawed human beings will ring true with teens coming to their own similar realizations. A recommended purchase where contemporary coming-of-age stories are in demand."

"Her narrative voice speaks loudly--Tess is a witty, energetic, and appealing protagonist."

"Pitcher's smooth writing offers clear insight into all of Tess's heartfelt emotions, and she constructs a complex plot around Tess, her family, Mr. Richardson, and all the intertwined relationships at school. The characters are layered and flawed...Readers who like quirky, angsty characters who triumph over both themselves and their oppressors will enjoy this tale."

"In Tess, Pitcher crafts an engaging and honest...narrator. While so many YA contemporaries put teenage romantic relationships front and center, this refreshing story is firmly focused at home on questions of identity and family. Though many readers will predict the ending, they will nevertheless enjoy the journey."

"The strength of this emotionally wrought, introspective novel lies in the character of Tess, the clarity of her voice, and the odd but wonderful relationship she has with the Jiminy Cricket-like Mr. Goldfish...An engrossing character study of a girl in crisis, this novel is perfect for readers who appreciate realistic heroines who solve their own problems."