Wonder

November 30, 2012 Uncategorized 0

Wonder

Author: R.J. Palacio
Publisher: Knopf Books for Young Readers
Publication Date: Feb. 14, 2012
Pages: 313
Source: Finished copy from publisher for review

About the Book: I won’t describe what I look like. Whatever you’re thinking, it’s probably worse.

August (Auggie) Pullman was born with a facial deformity that prevented him from going to a mainstream school—until now. He’s about to start 5th grade at Beecher Prep, and if you’ve ever been the new kid then you know how hard that can be. The thing is Auggie’s just an ordinary kid, with an extraordinary face. But can he convince his new classmates that he’s just like them, despite appearances?

R. J. Palacio has written a spare, warm, uplifting story that will have readers laughing one minute and wiping away tears the next. With wonderfully realistic family interactions (flawed, but loving), lively school scenes, and short chapters, Wonder is accessible to readers of all levels.

My Thoughts: Oh this book. It brings out all of the feels!!! It just speaks to the reader on so many levels. As a school librarian and teacher I really identified to so much of the story. I could see myself in the adult characters in Auggie’s world. And while I found myself aging Auggie and his classmates to the age of my students (12-14), the characterization was spot on. Auggie, his sister, and their friends seemed so authentic to me. 

 When I picked up Wonder I had no idea that there were different sections told by different characters. You get Auggie’s perspective but also that of his classmates, his sister, and her friends. This is so effective in telling Auggie’s story. Because here’s the thing. This isn’t just Auggie’s story. As Auggie’s English teacher points out, “No man is an island, entire of itself.” (John Donne) Auggie is shaped by those around him just as he shapes them. His part of the story is limited to his view of the world and himself. Some of my favorite revelations were ones the other characters came to. Hearing from them really allows the reader to feel a part of this wonderful book. 

I don’t want to say much about the plot. I’m want to let the characters tell you their stories without spoiling any of it. Just trust me… don’t let the fact that the main character is younger than most YA or MG books hold you off from reading this one. It’s beautiful and tender and it will make you feel better about this world we live in. I really hope parents will read and discuss it with their children. The same goes for teachers and their students. There is so much we can learn from Auggie and his friends. 

NOTE: Wonder would make a wonderful gift for friends and family of all ages!
NOTE 2: If you loved Freak the Mighty this is a great book for you! If you loved Wonder check out Freak the Mighty!

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