Melody is nearly 11 years old, and she has never spoken a word.

Melody has Cerebral Palsy, a condition that prevents her from walking, talking, dressing, standing, feeding herself, using the toilet alone – all the things most of us take for granted. But Melody is smart, with almost a photographic memory, a love of music, and a fierce desire to be ‘normal’.

Her family are loving, supportive and devoted to her care, and as she grows, they try to help her achieve her goals. Melody’s neighbour (a nurse like Melody’s mother), looks after Melody from very small when her parents are working. She too is determined to help Melody achieve her potential.

Melody goes to school and soon enjoys the new immersion classes. She wants to make friends, dress cool, go out places like other kids, and when it’s announced – be on the school Whiz Kids Quiz Team to compete for the National Trophy.

Constantly second guessing herself and not wanting to be the centre of attention, Melody has to maneuver the minefield of school, friends, jealousies, criticism, and suspicion. With a heart breaking climax and then a near loss of someone close, this story had me cheering in the end.

Out of my mind is a story of determination, struggle, acceptance, and courage, to have all the things we take for granted. Friendship, fun and most of all – a chance. A wonderful story. Look out for the sequel Out of my Heart.

Author – Sharon Draper

Age – 10+

(Cerebral Palsy, Condition, Disease, Acceptance, Family, Determination, Competition, Quiz, School, New baby)