Speechless

By Adam P. Schmitt

A boy struggles to find kind words for a cousin's eulogy, uncovering deeper truths about family and memory.

4.2/5 Goodreads · 1,289 ratings

304 pages· 57,723 words· Est. 6.5 hour read

$9.99Save 4%

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Bookroo's summary

Thirteen-year-old Jimmy faces an unexpected challenge: delivering a eulogy for his troublesome cousin. As he grapples with memories of chaos and destruction, Jimmy must navigate the awkwardness of grief and family secrets. With humor and angst, he searches for a meaningful story to share. But when he stands before the microphone, he discovers that true connection lies not in the words spoken, but in those truly heard. Can Jimmy find the courage to speak from the heart and reveal the hidden truths behind his cousin's facade?

From the publisher

How do you give a eulogy when you can’t think of one good thing to say? A poignant, funny, and candid look at grief, family secrets, difficult people, and learning to look behind the facade. As if being stuffed into last year’s dress pants at his cousin’s wake weren’t uncomfortable enough, thirteen-year-old Jimmy has just learned from his mother that he has to say a few words at the funeral the next day. Why him? What could he possibly say about his cousin, who ruined everything they did? He can’t recall one birthday party, family gathering, or school event with Patrick that didn’t result in injury or destruction. As Jimmy attempts to navigate the odd social norms of the wake, he draws on humor, heartfelt concern, and a good deal of angst while racking his brain and his memory for a decent and meaningful memory to share. But it’s not until faced with a microphone that the realization finally hits him: it’s not the words that are spoken that matter the most, but those that are truly heard.

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