OUT OF MY DREAMS

A tween saves her neighbor’s life and finds herself on an unexpected adventure.

Twelve-year-old Melody Brooks, who has cerebral palsy, is looking out her window when she sees Miss Gertie, her elderly neighbor, fall. Melody, who is nonspeaking, uses her talking board to call 911. She’s hailed as a hero and learns that Miss Gertie was once a celebrated film star who’s now isolated from family back home in London. As the news spreads, Miss Gertie and Melody are sought out by the local media. Before long, Melody is invited to attend an international symposium that brings together “gifted and visionary young people” so they can “exchange ideas and strategize solutions to the problems of the world.” Melody wonders what she could bring to such a gathering, but it means a trip to London for her and Miss Gertie. Accompanied by another trusted neighbor, Melody has a whirlwind of experiences, mostly positive. A major disappointment—an event she couldn’t attend because the space wasn’t wheelchair accessible—offers Melody something she can share with other conference participants. Among others from around the world, she connects with Elvira, who does wheelchair ballet and wants to help other wheelchair users participate in it, too. This latest volume is a worthy addition to a highly acclaimed and popular series. Through strong characterization and powerful storytelling, Draper once again successfully brings readers into Melody’s mind, allowing them to see the world through her eyes.

A warm and beautifully told narrative featuring a beloved character.