After Zero by Christina Collins. Elise has started at a big public school after years of being taught at home, and has decided the safest thing is to say nothing at all. She keeps a tally of every word she speaks, working towards zero. Then she uncovers something her mother has kept from her, and silence stops being a safe place to hide.

A quiet, moving first novel about selective mutism, anxiety and family secrets. The author had selective mutism herself as a child. Suggested ages 9–12.