Book: Out Of My Mind
Author: Sharon Draper
Pages: 320
This is my 56th read for the year
This is the story of Melody. A young girl with cerebral palsy. She cannot walk. She has never spoken. Yet she has hopes and dreams just like all other 11 year olds. Her parents know how smart she is, yet it takes a kindly neighbor and a school aide to get her a voice so she can communicate. Once she has a talking board, she can prove that she is smart and capable. She proves that her disability does not define her and how much she has to contribute.
This was a pretty good book. It is told in the voice of an 11 year old and would make a great book for teachers to read to students in the 3-5th grade range. It is a book about tolerance and misunderstanding when someone sees someone who cannot walk or talk. Melody proves that given the tools she needs, there is no stopping her. She wants what most 5th graders want - cool clothes, friends, and to be included.
As a nurse I have taken care of countless kids with cerebal palsy - many who were just as capable as Melody. I am a better person for knowing them. I would encourage parents to read all kinds of books about all different kinds of disabilities to their children to help use become more understanding of those who are differenly abled. It is a good lesson and this book a good place to start.
Stars: 4
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