Out of My Mind
by Sharon Draper
2011-2012 Texas Bluebonnet Award List
Tween
Melody is a bright, inquisitive girl who faces daily challenges because she has cerebral palsy. Melody has a photographic memory and is surrounded by words, yet she is unable to speak. Unfortunately, most of the people in her life do not realize Melody's potential. Things finally begin to change when a new teacher arrives for Melody's fifth grade class. She arranges for Melody to be in inclusion classes for the first time. This eventually leads to Melody receiving a sophisticated keyboard device, a Medi-Talker, that allows her to "speak". Everyone is surprised when Melody "speaks" for the first time, and takes notice when she earns a spot on her school's academic quiz bowl team. Unfortunately, not everyone is happy for Melody and her new voice. Melody learns some hard lessons that will not be forgotten easily.
Out of My Mind is a fascinating book because it takes the reader into the mind of a physically disabled person. I feel it is an excellent tool to help students understand others who are disabled. I'm sure all students will be able to relate to Melody's embarrassment when she is unable to feed herself or go to the bathroom by herself. Writing the book from Melody's point of view, is a terrific way to share this story.
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