Melody is a smart, funny fifth grader who has cerebral palsy. Her disability inhibits her speech, but she hopes her new Medi-Talker will help her gain acceptance. Told from Melody’s perspective, the novel highlights the discrepancy between who Melody is and how she is perceived. The novel has few “warm fuzzies,” but Melody is supported by people who see her as a person, not a “disabled person.” Melody challenges her audience by asking, “We all have disabilities. What’s yours?” Ages 9-12. (Atheneum)
