SLP Book Club: Out of My Mind

I have a short list of books that I wish were "required" reading for everyone.  Books that powerfully describe what life is like for individuals who are nonverbal.  Books that illustrate the power of communication.  Books like Petey and Ghost Boy.  I now have another to add the that list.  In fact, I think [affiliate link] Out of My Mind goes straight to the top of the list.

This is the story of Melody who is 10 years old ("almost 11") and in the 5th grade.  She has cerebral palsy (spastic bilateral quadriplegia), which means that she can't walk or talk or write or feed herself or take care of herself.  She does have a photographic memory and determination.  And intelligence and wit.  And a lot to say!

As with Petey (by Ben Mikaelsen), Out of My Mind by Sharon Draper is a YA/chapter book for ages 10 and up.  Therefore it is a quick read and at times the complex issues are somewhat simplified.  This allowed Draper to highlight many of the issues faced by nonverbal individuals in a more clear and relatable way for a wider range of readers.  You can read more about 'behind the story' on Sharon Draper's website.

The story of Melody is pure fiction.  Draper has a daughter who is disabled, though, which likely added to the breadth of issues and perspective incorporated into the story.  The first few chapters in particular I found myself repeatedly thinking "yes!" as Melody describes issue after issue - from the tendency to assume incompetence, to the dangers of attempting to predict the potential in a nonverbal child, to the pitfalls in the education system for nonverbal students, to the limitations of augmentative-alternative communication (AAC).

Out of My Mind is another striking (albeit fictional) example of the importance of presuming competence.  On many levels.  It also highlights beautifully the power one person can have in the life of another person.  Both for the better and for the worse.  I love how deftly Draper addresses the power of communication along with the limitations of alternative communication systems.  There are many examples of times when Melody either does not have the words, the time, the focus, or the access to communicate the thoughts and responses in her mind.  And yet, oh how the world opens and expands for Melody after she finally gets a more robust communication system!

I do have to admit, I really do not understand the twist thrown in at the end.  To me it was completely unnecessary and adds nothing to the story. 

In spite of that "distraction", I highly recommend Out of My Mind!  

Disclosure: I purchased the book and received no compensation for this post.  The opinions are all mine.  This post contains affiliate links for your convenience.