One way the main character, Melody, directly affects the plot in the novel "Out of My Mind" is through her determination to communicate with those around her. Despite being unable to speak or move on her own, Melody uses a communication board to express her thoughts and feelings, which leads to her being placed in a mainstream classroom and eventually participating in a quiz team competition. This decision to include Melody in these activities directly impacts the plot by forcing other characters to confront their own biases and preconceptions about disability and the abilities of those with communication impairments.
