Out of My Mind by Sharon M. Draper

Eleven-year-old Melody has a mind bursting with words, thoughts, and questions, but no one ever knows. Born with cerebral palsy, Melody is stuck in a body that can’t walk, can’t talk, and can’t write. Her limitations make life a struggle, but her biggest frustration is not being able to communicate how much she knows. When Melody receives a computer device called a Medi-Talker, she is finally able to express some of what she thinks. But will the world be ready for Melody’s voice?

Out of My Mind is a poignant look at life with disabilities. Told from Melody’s point of view, her story makes us question assumptions and judgements. This novel is thought provoking and powerful without being overly preachy. Melody’s experience is a good way for middle grade readers to look outside themselves and begin to understand different points of view. It is a great book for a read aloud and could provoke great discussions.

Recommended ages--10 and up

Retribution Rails by Erin Bowman

In this companion book to Vengeance Road, Erin Bowman brings us back to the lawless West. By now, the railroad is cutting through the wilderness and replacing many of the coach lines. Reece Murphy is an unwilling member of the Rose Riders that terrorize the countryside, robbing trains, destroying holdings, and murdering settlers along the way. Luther Rose keeps Reece hostage as the only one who can identify his brother’s killer, but Reece longs for freedom.

Charlotte Vaughn longs for her own kind of freedom--freedom from an oppressive uncle and the chance to be a woman journalist. When she and Reece cross paths, they both manipulate each other for their own ends. However, as their stories become more entwined, they realize they might need each other to merely survive.

Told from alternating perspectives, Retribution Rails is a fast-paced Western with colorful characters. Although they are not always on the same side, readers will cheer for both Reece and Charlotte as they struggle with their past and try to improve their future. This is a great adventure story with surprising depth and character development--a perfect combination of entertainment and life lessons.

Recommended ages--13 and up

No Talking by Andrew Clements

Dave Packer is determined to go for two days without talking. But what started out as an experiment inspired by his report on Mahatma Gandhi has become something much bigger. Now it is a contest between the 5th grade boys and girls at Laketon Elementary School. Can they go two days without saying a word (or at least no more than 3 words at a time if teachers demand it)? The bigger question is will this contest become a problem or a learning experience?

On first, No Talking seems like a light hearted story of competition between 5th grade students. However, as the contest continues, Clement’s story hits on some deeper issues. He clearly shows the power of communication and the art of negotiation and compromise. A simple story about young students becomes a metaphor of life and our interactions with others. No Talking is an entertaining book for middle grade readers, but also provides excellent material for discussion.

Recommended ages--9 -12 years old