This interview originally appeared in the September/October 2024 Horn Book Magazine as part of the Publishers’ Previews: Fall 2024, an advertising supplement that allows participating publishers a chance to each highlight a book from its current list. They choose the books; we ask the questions.

Sponsored by

Sharon M. Draper’s middle-grade icon Melody (Out of My Mind, Out of My Heart) returns in Out of My Dreams for an exciting trip to London.

Photo courtesy of Sharon M. Draper.

1. Why do you think Melody has collected so many dedicated readers?

Melody has distinct challenges (she has cerebral palsy and cannot speak or walk), yet she is just like any modern twelve-year-old. She yearns for friends, worries about the future, and wonders how she can get her thoughts out to a world that thinks she has none. Melody rises above those who question her dreams, her abilities, and her capabilities and proves she is brilliant, capable, and worthy of acceptance.

2. What are some places you’d suggest visitors see in London?

My favorite place is Buckingham Palace. Everyone must see the Tower of London and St. Paul’s Cathedral and ride the London Eye. Take in the glory and history of the city by double-decker bus.

3. What has it been like to see Melody come to the screen?

I still get chills when I see previews of the film. It is an author’s greatest dream, yet for me it is also a gift to all the teachers and students who have cheered for Melody and helped her along her path. I am so thankful to the producers, and I’d like to give a shout-out to Phoebe-Rae Taylor, who was a shining star playing Melody!

4. Assistive technology for people with disabilities has come a long way. What needs to happen next?

I “invented” the Medi-Talker, a specialized assistive speaking device for Melody. Nothing like it existed at that time. Today, a real Medi-Talker-type device is available for people like Melody. As for what’s next, we should ask those who are using assistive devices. They will tell you what they wish somebody would invent.

5. Not to spoil any potential sequels, but where do you see Melody at the age of, say, twenty-five?

I’d like readers to dream along with me a future for Melody where she goes to ­Congress and advocates for change, where she makes new friends and a positive ­difference in the world. In this book, she tiptoes onto that path of her future.

Sponsored by