Plot Summary: This is an excellent story written from the perspective of an 11 year-old girl who has never spoken a word because she has cerebral palsy. Melody is confined to a wheelchair and only is able to make very small and mostly uncontrollable movements with her arms and hands. Melody is quite brilliant-probably the smartest kid in her school. She has a photographic memory, but unable to express this so she is left to suffer in a “baby classroom” with other special needs children, learning the ABC’s and her colors day after day. Life in general is very frustrating and unhappy for Melody since she is unable to communicate. Things change for Melody when she is able to get a computer that does the talking for her. A sad but uplifting story of the challenges this young disabled girl is able to face and conquer because of her own courage, along with the strength of those who love her.
Genre: Realistic Fiction
Subjects/Themes: Cerebral palsy, special needs children, cliques.
Age Group: Grades 4-6 according to SLJ, but I felt that this book would definitely be enjoyed by students up to Grade 8.
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