Friends and Family

Melody’s support system is a vital component of her existence. The difficulties of caring for a child with developmental difficulties are made clear by Melody’s parents’ frustration and exhaustion—particularly because they both work. Melody is able to thrive with the physical and emotional assistance of her neighbor, Mrs. V, and her school aide, Catherine. At school, teachers such as Mrs. Shannon are instrumental in acquiring additional support workers and providing a more varied learning environment. When Melody rejects her quiz team’s pity, she is able to do so because she has a strong support system of people who truly care for her; Melody isn’t reliant on her classmates’ superficial and patronizing gestures of friendship.