Wonder Review

Wonder by R. J. Palacio

Genre: Juvenile Fiction

Publisher: Knopf Books for Young Readers

Source: Public Library

Book Description:

I won't describe what I look like. Whatever you're thinking, it's probably worse.

August Pullman was born with a facial deformity that, up until now, has prevented him from going to a mainstream school. Starting 5th grade at Beecher Prep, he wants nothing more than to be treated as an ordinary kid—but his new classmates can’t get past Auggie’s extraordinary face. WONDER, now a New York Times bestseller, begins from Auggie’s point of view, but soon switches to include his classmates, his sister, her boyfriend, and others. These perspectives converge in a portrait of one community’s struggle with empathy, compassion, and acceptance.

In a world where bullying among young people is an epidemic, this is a refreshing new narrative full of heart and hope. R.J. Palacio has called her debut novel “a meditation on kindness” —indeed, every reader will come away with a greater appreciation for the simple courage of friendship. Auggie is a hero to root for, a diamond in the rough who proves that you can’t blend in when you were born to stand out.

Review

This is such a great book that everyone should read.  You’ll fall in love with Auggie and cheer as he navigates through middle school and adapting to a “normal” life. 

Not only does Auggie grow up, so do his classmates as they discover how judging a book by its cover can get you into trouble.  I love how Auggie deals with the taunts, the looks, the snickers, and you'll smile when you see the inner Auggie and see him shine and gain confidence that he can handle being an ordinary kid.

This is a great book to read together as a family and discuss the various themes that run throughout the book.

Happy Reading!

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