In Out of My Mind by Sharon M. Draper, Melody Brooks, a highly intelligent fifth grader with cerebral palsy, navigates life unable to communicate verbally and bound to a wheelchair. With the support of her parents, neighbor Mrs. V, personal aide Catherine, and a Medi-Talker, Melody excels academically and makes the Whiz Kids quiz team, facing prejudice and overcoming significant challenges along the way.

Out of My Mind by Sharon M. Draper is widely praised for its compelling portrayal of a young girl with cerebral palsy. Readers appreciate its inspiring, heartfelt narrative and its powerful message about the importance of empathy and inclusion. Some critique the plot as occasionally predictable and note some repetitive elements, yet the book remains a highly recommended read.

Readers who would enjoy Out of My Mind by Sharon M. Draper are typically middle-grade to early teen students who appreciate heartfelt, inspiring stories about overcoming adversity. Fans of Wonder by R.J. Palacio and Counting by 7s by Holly Goldberg Sloan will find this novel's focus on resilience and empathy engaging.

Inspirational / Emotional / Contemplative / Heartwarming

**Melody Brooks**  
Melody Brooks is a nearly 11-year-old fifth-grader with cerebral palsy. She is incredibly intelligent with a near photographic memory. Throughout the novel, she gains autonomy and learns to communicate using a Medi-Talker computer.

**Mrs. V (Violet Valencia)**  
Mrs. V is Melody's next-door neighbor and former colleague of Melody’s mother. She mentors Melody, helping her to use her Medi-Talker and improve her confidence. Mrs. V is a supportive and practical champion for Melody.

**Catherine**  
Catherine is Melody’s aide at school, assisting with mobility and classwork. She is an ally and prepares Melody for the Whiz Kids tests and tournament while providing support against insensitivity from others.

**Mrs. Brooks**  
Melody’s mother, Mrs. Brooks, is a dedicated and loving advocate for her daughter. She faces the challenges of raising a child with special needs and defends Melody against prejudices.

**Mr. Brooks**  
Mr. Brooks is Melody's supportive father, who shares with her a love for reading and music. He is protective and proud but sometimes struggles with communicating with Melody.

**Penny**  
Penny is Melody’s baby sister and represents both joy and a reminder of what Melody finds challenging. She is a sweet child who loves Melody unconditionally.

**Rose**  
Rose is a student in the music inclusion class who becomes a guide for Melody. They share a tentative friendship, with Rose sometimes influenced by social pressures.

**Claire and Molly**  
Claire and Molly are classmates who mock and insult Melody. They symbolize the prejudice Melody faces and are significant antagonists in her story.

**Mr. Dimming**  
Mr. Dimming is the teacher of the history inclusion class and the moderator for the Whiz Kids team. He initially underestimates Melody but acknowledges her intelligence later in the story.

Sharon M. Draper

Middle grade

Novel

Out of My Mind

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Chapters 1-3

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