Deborah Lytton’s ‘Silence’ is a quick, addicting read

“SILENCE,” Deborah Lytton, Shadow Mountain, March 3, 2015, Hardcover, $17.99, young adult

What would you do if your talent were suddenly taken away from you? The main character in Deborah Lytton’s new book, “Silence,” faces just that question.

Stella has a voice to be reckoned with. Broadway is in her future — that much is certain. She’s only a sophomore at her new high school, but she’s already landed the lead in “West Side Story.” She becomes popular overnight. Everything is lining up perfectly, and then tragedy strikes.

In a heartbeat Stella is rendered deaf. She can’t hear what people are saying let alone hear herself speak or sing. Her future is no longer set in stone.

Stella is lost without her voice. It’s what defined her, until Hayden takes her under his wing. Hayden is used to being on the outskirts. His stutter makes him different, and in high school, different is not good.

Stella and Hayden have an instant connection. With Hayden’s help, Stella begins to see the world through different eyes. He gives her hope, and she gives him acceptance. But as with everything, new challenges arise. Challenges this new friendship may not survive.

“Silence” is much stronger than I first expected it to be. There’s more depth to it than your average teen read. Author Deborah Lytton has managed to include the drama of high school without turning it into a petty mess. Her restraint is commendable. She also does a good job of getting into Stella’s head, and truly giving the reader a sense of what it might be like to lose their hearing.

“Silence” is a quick and addicting read — I finished it in one sitting. And quite honestly, it’s nice to find a book like this that leaves out the sex. Yes, I know some teenagers engage in sexual activity, but not all of them do. And in the case of “Silence” it was unnecessary. If you’re looking for a clean and engaging read, “Silence” is a good choice.