Comparing and contrasting the theme of out of my mind and when stars are scattered
Out of My Mind by Sharon Draper and When Stars Are Scattered by Victoria Jamieson and Omar Mohamed are both novels that explore the experiences of young people living with disabilities and the challenges they face. While the two books have different settings and characters, they both share similar themes of resilience, friendship, and the importance of empathy and understanding.
One key difference between the two novels is the type of disability that the main characters face. In Out of My Mind, the protagonist Melody has cerebral palsy, which greatly affects her physical mobility and ability to speak. In When Stars Are Scattered, the main character Omar has a younger brother, Hassan, who has autism. Hassan's disability affects his ability to communicate with others and understand social cues.
Both novels highlight the importance of empathy and understanding in enabling people with disabilities to lead fulfilling lives. In Out of My Mind, Melody frequently experiences frustration and exclusion due to the assumptions and prejudices of others around her. However, she also finds allies in her teachers, parents, and classmates who recognize her intelligence and unique perspective on the world. Similarly, in When Stars Are Scattered, Omar struggles to navigate the challenges of living with a brother who requires constant supervision and support. However, he also forms close connections with his friends, teachers, and caseworkers who provide support and encouragement.
Both books also emphasize the importance of perseverance and resilience in overcoming the challenges associated with disability. In Out of My Mind, Melody's passion for learning and dedication to communicating with others ultimately leads her to success in competitions and gaining friends and admirers. Similarly, in When Stars Are Scattered, Omar shows incredible strength in persevering through the difficulties of his daily life, including navigating a refugee camp and advocating for his brother's needs.
Overall, both Out of My Mind and When Stars Are Scattered offer powerful messages about the importance of empathy, understanding, and perseverance in overcoming the challenges associated with disability. While the specific challenges faced by the characters may be different, their stories share common themes that can inspire readers of all ages and backgrounds.