Out of My Mind

Reach for this book when your child feels trapped by the assumptions of others or is struggling to communicate their complex inner world. Eleven year old Melody is a brilliant girl with a photographic memory, but because of her cerebral palsy, the world sees only a 'damaged' child who cannot speak or move. When she finally gains access to a computer that speaks for her, she discovers that being heard is only the first step toward being understood. This is a powerful tool for building empathy, discussing inclusion, and validating the frustration of being underestimated. It is deeply moving and realistically depicts the hurdles of living with a disability.