OUT OF MY MIND

Book Review

Book name: Out of My Mind

Author: Sharon M. Draper

Genre: YA Fiction

Intro: Melody is 11 year girl who has a photogenic memory, she remembers everything she’s ever watched or listened to. However, no one knows because Melody lives with cerebral palsy. In her case it gives her limited movement and communication abilities. This her story as a 5th grader living day to day life.

My rating: 4/5

My review: I’m an English teacher, so I find myself often reading YA books, across several levels so that I can find books to read with my students or recommend to them. I’m lucky because I have an 11 year old sister who often shares what books she interested in. I’m so glad she recommend this one to me. I think it’s always beneficial, no matter what age you are, to read books from the perspective of someone who lives a very different life than you. To be inspired by their accomplishments and perseverance. And that’s exactly what Melody’s character did. I found myself laughing, crying and at times sobbing when reading this book. I think the world could use more books like this to accomplish more empathy amongst children and adults alike, and understanding what those with disabilities experience every day. A world many of us have no understanding of. I highly recommend you get your young one, and even yourself, to read this book.

#books #BookReview #bookrecommendations #yabooks

2024/3/10 Edited to

... Read moreStepping into Melody's world through Sharon M. Draper's 'Out of My Mind' was an experience I won't soon forget. Beyond the heartfelt narrative, the book's cover itself holds such profound symbolism that often sparks curiosity. The image of a goldfish leaping from its bowl perfectly encapsulates Melody's inner world – a brilliant mind yearning for freedom and expression, trapped within a body that limits her. This visual metaphor for 'Living with Disabilities' is so powerful, hinting at the depths of frustration and hope that lie within the pages. It's truly an 'Inspiring' cover that draws you into her unique perspective. Delving deeper into Melody's journey, the 'School setting' portrayed in the book is incredibly insightful. While many of us might take for granted the simple acts of speaking in class or participating in group activities, Melody's experience is a constant battle for inclusion and understanding. The challenges she faces, from misjudgment by peers to the struggle for proper communication tools, paint a vivid picture of what it's like to navigate a world not always designed for everyone. Yet, her perseverance and the glimpses of true friendship she finds are utterly heartwarming, making her story not just a testament to resilience but also a powerful call for greater empathy in our own communities, especially within educational environments. One detail that truly captivated me, and something I know many readers wonder about, is Melody's connection to music. When you're immersed in her story, you quickly learn that Melody absolutely adores classical music, particularly the works of Mozart. For her, music isn't just background noise; it's a vibrant, expansive world where her mind can soar without physical limitations. It's a place of comfort, a source of profound joy, and a crucial outlet for her emotions and intelligence. This aspect of her character really highlights how individuals find unique ways to express themselves and connect with the world, even when conventional methods are unavailable. It offers a beautiful insight into her rich inner life, often hidden from those around her. This book is more than just a story; it's an invitation to expand our understanding and compassion. It’s easy to search for a book by its cover or a specific detail, but ‘Out of My Mind’ encourages us to look beyond the surface. It proves that every individual, regardless of their challenges, possesses a unique voice and a rich inner world worth discovering. If you’re looking for a book that will make you reflect, challenge your perceptions, and ultimately leave you feeling more connected to humanity, then this is an absolute must-read. It really does open your mind, much like Melody's goldfish leaps for its freedom.

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