Out of My Mind by Sharon Draper tells the story of 10 year old Melody, incapable of controlling her body or speaking her mind because of cerebral palsy. Told in the first person by the remarkable intelligent girl, the story is a realistic and compassionate window into the life of one considered “disabled” by the world around her.
From Karen: Thanks for last night’s discussion. As always no matter what type of book we read, I learn so much from the group’s insights. Your discussion on the daily challenges you face teaching in a COVID world was especially moving. Your students are very lucky to have you Ann. May we all remain healthy in body and spirit as we enter into fall/winter and a second COVID wave. Thank goodness we have our books and meetings to look forward to. Here’s to enjoying more meaningful conversations and learning new things together.
From Bev: So sorry to have joined in later last night. I agree with Karen, that we learn and grow through our discussions. Ann’s book resonated with me and my years in education, trying to advocate for including special needs kids in the classroom. Their struggles and those of the teachers and parents who work so hard to accommodate and support them is inspiring.
From Moira: Thanks everyone for another good discussion and many thanks to you Ann for bringing this book forward and providing the links to author interviews and filling in the classroom realities. I’m always amazed when such a seemingly simple book has so much depth to it when we start reviewing, analyzing, questioning etc. It’s the beauty of our Bookclub!
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