Review of Out of My Mind by Sharon M. Draper
When I stumbled upon Out of My Mind, I had no idea I’d be diving into a whirlwind of emotions, laughter, and rage. Sharon M. Draper’s poignant storytelling intrigued me right from the outset, hinting at a unique voice in the world of middle-grade literature. But little did I know that young Melody’s journey would resonate so deeply within me, evoking every possible feeling along the way.
At the heart of this novel is Melody Brooks, a brilliant girl confined by her body due to cerebral palsy. Draper vividly paints Melody’s world—her pink wheelchair, her goldfish who met an untimely demise, and her vibrant spirit that shines against all odds. Right from the beginning, I was captivated by Melody’s perspective. The way she describes her thoughts, dreams, and frustrations is nothing short of inspiring, making readers acutely aware of the disparity between her rich inner life and the outer world’s limitations imposed on her.
Key themes in Out of My Mind revolve around communication, self-worth, and the importance of understanding and inclusion. Melody has a photographic memory and is incredibly intelligent, yet society often overlooks her potential. The moment when she receives her Medi-Talker, allowing her to express her thoughts for the first time, is an emotional highlight. I found myself holding back tears, fully invested in the moment Melody finally tells her parents, “I love you.” It was an exquisite blend of joy and heartbreak—a reminder of the simple yet profound aspects of human connection.
Draper’s writing style is both expressive and accessible, seamlessly weaving Melody’s thoughts with her vibrant dreams. One passage struck me particularly hard: “When I sleep, I dream. And in my dreams, I can do anything.” This line encapsulates the gap between the reality of her life and the boundless possibilities of her imagination. It evokes that bittersweet feeling we all know—how dreams can often feel more real than our waking lives.
The supporting characters enrich the narrative—like Violet, Melody’s compassionate neighbor, and her loving family. However, not everyone is kind; those “@ssholes” Claire and Molly serve as painful reminders of bullying and ignorance, making my blood boil with every cruel remark they tossed Melody’s way. Draper brilliantly captures the spectrum of humanity—showing us that while some people shine with kindness, others choose the darker path of cruelty.
If you are a lover of heartfelt tales, or if you appreciate stories that champion resilience in the face of adversity, Out of My Mind is for you. It’s not just a book for children; it’s a reminder for all of us about the importance of empathy, patience, and understanding those who might be different from us.
In conclusion, this book left me feeling empowered and reflective. Out of My Mind had me rooting for Melody from page one, and I am so grateful I took a chance on it. I can’t wait to recommend it to readers seeking a poignant tale of overcoming life’s hurdles and celebrating the power of communication. Grab a copy, but prepare your heart—it’s a journey you won’t soon forget.
Happy reading!
Melissa 🖤🐶🐺🐾
Discover more about Out of My Mind (Out of My Mind, #1) on GoodReads >>