101 pages 3 hours read

Sharon M. Draper

Out of My Mind

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2010

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Before You Read

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Super Short Summary

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.

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

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.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Out of My Mind?

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.

Recommended

Reading Age

10-14years

Lexile Level

700L

Book Details

Genre

Children's Literature

Realistic Fiction

Education

Topics

Gender / Feminism

Disability

Education

Themes

Identity: Gender

Values/Ideas: Music

Identity: Disability