11 year old Melody Brooks has cerebral palsy. She also has photographic memory, and is probably the smartest kid in school, but nobody knows. Melody can't walk, talk, or write, which is frustrating for a girl that has a lot to say. So when Melody discovers the Medi-Talker, a computer-like machine that is designed for people like her, she feels that she finally has a voice. Being able to use the Medi-Talker is like a new freedom for Melody. Her world is now opened to so many more possibilities. When she takes the Whiz Kids test, she gets a perfect score. All kinds of difficult questions are asked on the test, and Melody is the first ever to get all the questions correct. A lot of people just assumed that since she can't walk, talk, or write she must not be smart either. Those people were all wrong, and Melody is determined to prove that to them. Not everybody is ready to accept the fact that Melody is more than just the girl with disabilities. She is funny, sweet, and super smart. So, even though Melody can share her thoughts with the world, not everybody is ready to hear them. Even though she was placed on the Whiz Kids team, not everybody is happy she is there. But, just because people doubt her doesn't mean she'll just give up. Sure she has mean girls to deal with, a discouraging teacher, and a friend that is not-so-friendly behind her back. But, she also has loving parents, a supportive teacher aide, and the one-in-a-million Mrs. V. Melody has never just given up before, and she won't now.
Overall, I liked this book. I think "Out Of My Mind," is a book that everybody should read, no matter what kind of book you enjoy. This book teaches important lessons which the author clearly displays throughout the story. One lesson that really stood out to me was not to judge somebody by first appearances, that you should to get to know them. I think this is a message that everybody thinks they know, but only really understand until they seen it in action, like in this book. Seeing the story through Melody's eyes really makes you look at things in a whole new perspective. One of the things I liked best about the book was the main character and narrator, Melody. Melody is funny, sweet, and friendly. She transforms this book into an irresistible story you can't put down. I will say that whoever reads this book should be prepared with a box of tissues by their side because it is very emotional. I got teary-eyed several times throughout the story. One thing I wasn't too pleased with was the ending. It was bittersweet because I always hope that a character like Melody has a happy ending. Unfortunately, that is not what happened. I suppose it is just trying to show that not everything has a happy ending, and I do think that contributes to the message of the book. Overall, I would recommend this book to basically anyone, especially those who like emotional stories.
Reviewed by Sara H., Grade 8
