Summary,+APA+citation

**SUMMARY ** Draper, S. M. (2010). //Out of my mind//. New York, NY: Athenum Books for Young Reader.

//Out of my Mind // would best be suited for a student at an 8th grade reading level. While the reading might be difficult for younger children, anyone who is interested in or has had experience with physical handicaps or a physically handicapped person would enjoy this book, and possibly benefit from its lessons and themes.

Melody, an eleven year old fifth grader is the smartest girl in her school. She has a photographic memory and remembers everything she has ever seen or heard. Melody is the only one who knows her immense intellect and intelligence. She was born with cerebral palsy and has never spoken a word in her life. Confined to a wheelchair, as movement is almost completely impossible for Melody, she cannot talk with her hands or write her thoughts for others to see. Melody is constantly bored in the special education classes she is placed in and wants to be more challenged.

After hearing of a possible breakthrough, Melody is able to let her parents and doctors know about a computer that will help her talk to others. With the computer, Melody is placed in “regular” classes and thrives. She even joins the quiz bowl team in her class and helps them make it to the final competition in Washington D.C. Though it was easy to root for Melody and be excited about her overcoming of many obstacles, not everyone was ready to accept Melody. A particular girl in Melody’s class was jealous of the new attention Melody was getting, and accused Melody of cheating on her tests and quizzes. While not all students felt like Claire did, peer pressure triumphed and the book ended with a major blow to Melody’s confidence. Melody was supposed to meet her academic team at the airport and fly to the finals in Washington D.C. When her family got to the airport she realized all the flights had been cancelled and her team went to the competition without her.

Though the end of the story was upsetting, Melody had accomplished more than anyone could have ever imagined and should continue to feel confident in her endeavors.