Common Sense Media Review
By Joly Herman
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Beloved character inspires in third book of popular series.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 10+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Read
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
In OUT OF MY DREAMS, preteen Melody Brooks wakes up to a gray Ohio morning and waits for her mom to come get her ready for the day. Melody depends on her parents and loved ones to help her do a lot; she's a kid with cerebral palsy, which affects her ability to control her muscles. Her mind, however, is very much functional, racing curiously from one topic to another. When she notices something going wrong with her neighbor, from her wheelchair, she's able to take action that saves her neighbor's life. The neighbor, in turn, nominates Melody to speak at a conference for differently abled kids—in London! And she gets to bring two friends! But communicating isn't easy for Melody. Will she be able to do what she came to London to do?
Is It Any Good?
With an emotional range that takes readers to great heights, this book inspires compassion and packs an educational punch. Unlikely hero Melody Brooks shines in Out of My Dreams, especially when she defies expectations over and over. Some of the educational sidebars feel like lists rather than plot devices, but the ending of the book is a triumph. Fans of Melody's adventures in the first two books will enjoy this satisfying installment. Here's a lovable hero who shows readers that unexpected rewards can come to those who simply do the right thing.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about curiosity in Out of My Dreams. How does Melody's curiosity drive her ambitions? When have you been rewarded for your curiosity?
Communication doesn't come easily for Melody—she relies on a machine to help her speak. How can you improve your communication skills? What would that change for you?
Melody has to dig deep to find the courage to speak in front of her peers. What takes you a lot of courage to do?
Book Details
- Author :
- Genre : Contemporary Fiction
- Topics : Activism , STEM , Arts
- Character Strengths : Communication , Courage , Curiosity
- Book type : Fiction
- Publisher : Atheneum/Caitlyn Dlouhy Books
- Publication date : September 3, 2024
- Publisher's recommended age(s) : 9 - 11
- Number of pages : 320
- Available on : Nook, Audiobook (unabridged), Hardback, Apple Books, Kindle
- Last updated : September 18, 2025
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