Melody never forgets. She knows every word she's ever heard. Melody loves music and sees the notes in colors and tastes the flavor of the music rather than merely hearing it. But Melody has never said a word to anyone. She can't talk, walk, or even write. That doesn't mean she is dumb and Melody is going to prove it. Melody plans on competing in the Whiz Kid Quiz Bowl and show everyone exactly how smart she really is. However, if Melody wins will the other kids finally accept her or will it only make things worse? Either way it is a risk Melody is willing to take.
Despite being mute and wheelchair bound Melody is a character that many young readers will relate to almost immediately. Melody is often frustrated by outsiders and her class work. Like all young teens she longs for friendships and sleepovers. When faced with being doubted and dismissed Melody strives to prove others wrong, inspiring readers along the way.
Draper's inside look of a mind locked in its own prison is an eye opener for readers who haven't had close personal contact with challenged adolescents. Having never suffered what it means to live life every day with difficult challenges, Out of my mind gives the reader empathy and understanding for a culture they may otherwise dismissed.
While it is easy to focus on Melody's handicap, Out of my mind is also a wonderful introduction into setting goals and working hard to obtain them. Students can read this book and identify Melody's desire to join the Quiz team. This opens the class up for discussions as to what steps Melody takes to reach her goal and what obstacles stand in her way.
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