At school, her new teacher starts an inclusion program that allows special needs students to participate in the standard classes.
Melody befriends Rose Spencer but is bullied by two girls named Molly and Claire, who believe that her disability makes her dumber than them.
On Monday, Melody's class apologizes for their lack of consideration towards her by giving her the ninth-place trophy that they won, hoping to reconcile with her.
In May 2022, it was reported that a film adaptation of the novel was in development for Disney+ with Daniel Siepleman as writer, Amber Sealey as director and Phoebe-Rae Taylor set to star.
Kirkus Reviews praised the book as "rich in detail of both the essential normalcy and the difficulties of a young person with cerebral palsy", and "descriptions of both Melody's challenges—'Going to the bathroom at school just plain sucks'—and the insensitivities of some are unflinching and realistic".
[12] Booklist stated that Out of My Mind is "a book that defies age categorization, an easy enough read for upper-elementary students yet also a story that will enlighten and resonate with teens and adults".
[8] The Columbus Dispatch (Ohio) and Pittsburgh Post-Gazette (Pennsylvania) stated "Draper challenges those who read her story to become activists for those who are different".
[8] The Denver Post powerfully concluded: "if there's only one book teens and parents (and everyone else) can read this year, Out of My Mind should be it.
"[14] VOYA praised "Melody's triumphs and setbacks as she strives to become a socially accepted classmate and team member are vividly described in this inspirational novel, which will appeal not only to middle school readers but also to anyone who wonders what might be going on in the minds of individuals with severe physical handicaps".
[citation needed] The Washington Post commented "author Sharon Draper creates an authentic character who insists, through her lively voice and indomitable will, that the reader become fully involved with the girl in the pink wheelchair".