"Words. I'm surrounded by thousands of words" (Chapter 1, p. 9).

"I guess I figured out I was different a little at a time" (Chapter 2, p. 15).

"When I sleep, I dream. And in my dreams I can do anything" (Chapter 7, p. 41).

"I think I knew Mom was going to have a baby even before she did. She smelled different, like new soap. Her skin felt softer and warmer" (Chapter 9, p. 53).

"Wouldn't it be cool if somebody could invent a bubble-talking machine before fifth grade starts in a couple of weeks" (Chapter 10, p. 63).

"I close my eyes, trying not to cry, dreaming of the perfect Melody-made computer" (Chapter 14, p. 84).

"When I think about it, I realize I have never, ever said any words directly to my parents. So I push a couple of buttons, and the machine speaks the words I've never been able to say. 'I love you'" (Chapter 15, p...