This is a phenomenal read! It depicts the challenges of those who are differently-abled as it describes the journey of 11-year-old Melody, who has cerebral palsy. She is brilliant, observant, and considerate, but her body will not let her communicate her thoughts and emotions. Then she discovers the Medi-Talker, and a world of new possibilities opens. But others need to change, not Melody.

"We write to hold our lives on our hands and to make something of them."--Lucy Calkins

Not a big fan of the "mean girls" mentality, but it is unfortunately a reality. It's so important to be who you are, but finding out who that is can be a struggle.

I didn't think I would care for this one...fantasy is not my favorite genre. However, this is so well written and the protagonists are so likable, you can't help but cheer for them. I even felt a momentary twinge of sadness for the villain, Capricorn; he is, after all, a victim of circumstances beyond his control. Just goes to show you how a powerful reader can make a book come to life.

I now understand why this book strikes a chord with so many YA readers. It makes you realize how precious individual experiences are, and it reinforces for me the importance of being kind. I will begin the school year reading Mr. Tushman's "middle school address" to my students.

I now unrest and why this book strikes a chord with so many YA readers. It makes you realize how precious individual experiences are, and it reinforces for me the importance of being kind. I will begin the school year reading Mr. Tushman's "middle school address" to my students.

Brings a whole new meaning to the expression "famous last words."

I found this to be a genuine albeit disarming look at depression. How important to shed such light upon mental health issues since they impact people we all know and love! I found the protagonist, Craig Gilmer, to be open and authentic. Great characters, and the plot moved along at a good pace.