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By Maria Russo

April 6, 2012

Born with several genetic abnormalities, 10-year-old August Pullman, called Auggie, dreams of being “ordinary.” Inside, he knows he’s like every other kid, but even after 27 surgeries, the central character of “Wonder” bears facial disfigurations so pronounced that people who see him for the first time do “that look-away thing” — if they manage to hide their shock and horror.

“Whatever you’re thinking, it’s probably worse,” he says of his face as the book begins. He’s used to the stares and mean comments, but he’s still terrified to learn that his parents have gotten him into middle school at Beecher Prep and want him to go there rather than be home-schooled. But they persuade him to give it a try — and by the time this rich and memorable first novel by R. J. Palacio is over, it’s not just Auggie but everyone around him who has changed.

Stories about unusual children who long to fit in can be particularly wrenching. At their core lurks a kind of loneliness that stirs primal fears of abandonment and isolation. But Palacio gives Auggie a counterweight to his problems: He has the kind of warm and loving family many “normal” children lack. Among their — and the book’s — many strengths, the Pullmans share the, um, earthy sense of humor that all kids love. Over the years his parents, Nate and Isabel, have turned the disturbing story of Auggie’s birth into high comedy involving a flatulent nurse who fainted at the sight of him, and they persuade him to go to Beecher by riffing hilariously on the name of the school’s director, Mr. Tushman. It also helps that the Pullmans’ world — they live in a town house in “the hippie-stroller capital of upper Upper Manhattan” — is the privileged, educated upper-middle class, that hotbed of parents who hover and micromanage the lives of their perfectly fine children. It’s somehow weirdly satisfying to see what happens when something actually alarming enters this zone of needless anxiety. Palacio carves a wise and refreshing path, suggesting that while even a kid like August has to be set free to experience the struggles of life, the right type of closeness between parents and children is a transformative force for good.

But it’s Auggie and the rest of the children who are the real heart of “Wonder,” and Palacio captures the voices of girls and boys, fifth graders and teenagers, with equal skill, switching narrators every few chapters to include Auggie’s friends and his teenage sister, Via, who wrestles with her resentment, guilt and concern. “We circle around him like he’s still the baby he used to be,” she observes ruefully. And we see the vicious politics of fifth-grade popularity played out as the class bully targets Auggie and starts a campaign to shun him, culminating in an overnight school trip that turns scary and shuffles the social deck in ways no one could have imagined.

While I sobbed several times during “Wonder,” my 9-year-old daughter — who loved the book and has been pressing it on her friends — remained dry-eyed. She didn’t understand why I thought Auggie’s situation might upset her. “I like kids who are different,” she said. I realized that what makes her cry are stories in which children suffer because they have missing or neglectful parents and no one to take care of them. Perhaps Palacio’s most remarkable trick is leaving us with the impression that Auggie’s problems are surmountable in all the ways that count — that he is, in fact, in an enviable position.

By R. J. Palacio

315 pp. Alfred A. Knopf. $15.99. (Middle grade; ages 8 to 12)

Maria Russo is a frequent contributor to the Book Review.

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New York Times Bestseller

by R.J. Palacio ‧ RELEASE DATE: Feb. 14, 2012

A memorable story of kindness, courage and wonder.

After being home-schooled for years, Auggie Pullman is about to start fifth grade, but he’s worried: How will he fit into middle school life when he looks so different from everyone else?

Auggie has had 27 surgeries to correct facial anomalies he was born with, but he still has a face that has earned him such cruel nicknames as Freak, Freddy Krueger, Gross-out and Lizard face. Though “his features look like they’ve been melted, like the drippings on a candle” and he’s used to people averting their eyes when they see him, he’s an engaging boy who feels pretty ordinary inside. He’s smart, funny, kind and brave, but his father says that having Auggie attend Beecher Prep would be like sending “a lamb to the slaughter.” Palacio divides the novel into eight parts, interspersing Auggie’s first-person narrative with the voices of family members and classmates, wisely expanding the story beyond Auggie’s viewpoint and demonstrating that Auggie’s arrival at school doesn’t test only him, it affects everyone in the community. Auggie may be finding his place in the world, but that world must find a way to make room for him, too.

Pub Date: Feb. 14, 2012

ISBN: 978-0-375-86902-0

Page Count: 320

Publisher: Knopf

Review Posted Online: Dec. 2, 2011

Kirkus Reviews Issue: Dec. 15, 2011

CHILDREN'S SOCIAL THEMES | CHILDREN'S HEALTH & DAILY LIVING

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by R.J. Palacio ; illustrated by R.J. Palacio with K Czap

by R.J. Palacio ; illustrated by R.J. Palacio

More About This Book

CHARLOTTE'S WEB

by E.B. White illustrated by Garth Williams ‧ RELEASE DATE: Oct. 15, 1952

The three way chats, in which they are joined by other animals, about web spinning, themselves, other humans—are as often...

A successful juvenile by the beloved New Yorker writer portrays a farm episode with an imaginative twist that makes a poignant, humorous story of a pig, a spider and a little girl.

Young Fern Arable pleads for the life of runt piglet Wilbur and gets her father to sell him to a neighbor, Mr. Zuckerman. Daily, Fern visits the Zuckermans to sit and muse with Wilbur and with the clever pen spider Charlotte, who befriends him when he is lonely and downcast. At the news of Wilbur's forthcoming slaughter, campaigning Charlotte, to the astonishment of people for miles around, spins words in her web. "Some Pig" comes first. Then "Terrific"—then "Radiant". The last word, when Wilbur is about to win a show prize and Charlotte is about to die from building her egg sac, is "Humble". And as the wonderful Charlotte does die, the sadness is tempered by the promise of more spiders next spring.

Pub Date: Oct. 15, 1952

ISBN: 978-0-06-026385-0

Page Count: 192

Publisher: Harper/HarperCollins

Review Posted Online: Sept. 14, 2011

Kirkus Reviews Issue: Oct. 1, 1952

CHILDREN'S ANIMALS | CHILDREN'S SOCIAL THEMES

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by E.B. White & illustrated by Maggie Kneen

by E.B. White illustrated by Fred Marcellino

by E.B. White illustrated by Garth Williams

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THE SCHOOL FOR GOOD AND EVIL

From the school for good and evil series , vol. 1.

by Soman Chainani ; illustrated by Iacopo Bruno ‧ RELEASE DATE: May 14, 2013

Rich and strange (and kitted out with an eye-catching cover), but stronger in the set pieces than the internal logic.

Chainani works an elaborate sea change akin to Gregory Maguire’s Wicked (1995), though he leaves the waters muddied.

Every four years, two children, one regarded as particularly nice and the other particularly nasty, are snatched from the village of Gavaldon by the shadowy School Master to attend the divided titular school. Those who survive to graduate become major or minor characters in fairy tales. When it happens to sweet, Disney princess–like Sophie and her friend Agatha, plain of features, sour of disposition and low of self-esteem, they are both horrified to discover that they’ve been dropped not where they expect but at Evil and at Good respectively. Gradually—too gradually, as the author strings out hundreds of pages of Hogwarts-style pranks, classroom mishaps and competitions both academic and romantic—it becomes clear that the placement wasn’t a mistake at all. Growing into their true natures amid revelations and marked physical changes, the two spark escalating rivalry between the wings of the school. This leads up to a vicious climactic fight that sees Good and Evil repeatedly switching sides. At this point, readers are likely to feel suddenly left behind, as, thanks to summary deus ex machina resolutions, everything turns out swell(ish).

Pub Date: May 14, 2013

ISBN: 978-0-06-210489-2

Page Count: 496

Review Posted Online: Feb. 12, 2013

Kirkus Reviews Issue: April 15, 2013

CHILDREN'S SCIENCE FICTION & FANTASY | CHILDREN'S SOCIAL THEMES

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A review of Wonder By R. J. Palacio

Wonder By R. J. Palacio Penguin Books Ltd 3 Sept 2018, Hardcover, 704 pg, ISBN-13: 978-0241368381

There is a saying that there are two sides to every story. Wonder by R. J. Palacio shows that there are actually many sides to a story. Wonder tells a story from the perspective of six different characters. I would highly recommend this book for people aged nine and above.

The main character in Wonder is August Pullman: Auggie. He is a funny and sensitive ten-year-old boy from New York who was born with a facial deformity. The story follows his first year at school, after having been home schooled. Auggie wants to feel normal but this is hard when people stare at him and avoid him. Jack Will is one of the first friends that Auggie makes at Beecher Prep. Jack and Auggie become friends when Auggie lets Jack copy his work in class. The boys make each other laugh a lot, which forms the basis for a fun friendship.

Julian Albans is Auggie’s bully at Beecher Prep and makes Auggie’s life a misery. He is an only child who is spoilt by his family. Popularity is important to Julian, which is why he makes fun of Auggie. He is described as “the kind of kid who’s one way in front of grown-ups and another way in front of kids.” Olivia Pullman or Via, is Auggie’s older sister and is a freshman at Faulkner High School. She is overly protective of her brother but often feels like she is not important to her family due to the constant care that her brother needs. She feels like she is always seen as Auggie’s sister and not as Via Pullman.

The moral of the story is not to judge a book by its cover. Because people would judge Auggie by his looks and not his personality, they failed to make friends with a nice person.

Wonder will remind readers to be nicer to people, even if they don’t look the same. It also implies that if at first you’re not popular, in the end you will be accepted for your true colours and be more than you thought you would ever grow to be. Wonder gave me mixed emotions – I felt happy and sad, and a range of emotions in between. Wonder is also a major motion picture starring Julia Roberts and Owen Wilson. Are you ready to meet Auggie Pullman?

About the reviewer: Cleo was Commended in the 2019 Hunter Writers’ Centre/Compulsive Reader Review competition. She is in Grade 6 and her favourite subjects are novel study, reading groups and writing. Cleo has participated in the Premier’s Reading Challenge since she started school. Cleo plays as the Goal Shooter and Goal Attack in her local netball team, which she loves. Cleo’s dream is to have a dog and her goals for the future are to complete high school with great grades and to start her own business.

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Parents' guide to.

Wonder Book Cover: A white face, featureless except for one blue eye, against a light blue background

Common Sense Says
Parents Say 61 Reviews
Kids Say 276 Reviews

Common Sense Media Review

Moving tale of facially different boy with inner beauty.

Parents Need to Know

Why Age 10+?

Auggie and a couple of his classmates come across some seventh-grade kids whom t

No curse words, but a lot of hate speech and insults. Other children call Auggie

Auggie's friend Jack Will punches another boy. Some seventh-grade kids pick on A

Auggie's high school-age sister, Via, has a boyfriend, and they kiss a few times

Any Positive Content?

Wonder has a powerful way of reminding readers that beauty is only skin

Almost all of the adults in Wonder are strong role models for Auggie; h

Main character Auggie has a craniofacial condition, and the book centers around

Wonder 's greatest lessons are more emotional or behavioral than academi

Parents need to know that Wonder is about 10-year-old August "Auggie" Pullman, who has a genetic facial difference. After being homeschooled, he enters school for the first time in fifth grade and has to cope with a range of reactions to his unusual appearance, as well as a lot of typical middle school drama. Some kids use hateful language, and some people suggest that Auggie is mentally deficient. These situations are upsetting, as are other hardships that Auggie's family endures, including the loss of a beloved family pet. But goodness wins out, and readers should find it inspiring and uplifting. A high school couple kisses a few times, and Auggie observes some seventh-grade kids smoking, but it's not clear whether they're smoking cigarettes or pot. The book was adapted for the 2017 film starring Julia Roberts , Owen Wilson , and Jacob Tremblay . The audiobook version, read by Nick Podehl , Kate Rudd, and Diana Steele, was named a 2013 Notable Children's Recording by the American Library Association.

Drinking, Drugs & Smoking

Auggie and a couple of his classmates come across some seventh-grade kids whom they observe smoking. It's not entirely clear whether they're smoking cigarettes or pot.

Did you know you can flag iffy content? Adjust limits for Drinking, Drugs & Smoking in your kid's entertainment guide.

No curse words, but a lot of hate speech and insults. Other children call Auggie an "alien," an "orc," and a "freak"; they slip notes into his locker telling him to "Get out of our school," and they pretend he has a contagious disease that they call the Plague. Auggie himself uses discriminatory language when he yells "I'm not retarded!"

Did you know you can flag iffy content? Adjust limits for Language in your kid's entertainment guide.

Violence & Scariness

Auggie's friend Jack Will punches another boy. Some seventh-grade kids pick on Auggie and his friends, and physically assault them. Kids are pushed, bruised, and scraped, and a child's sweatshirt is torn; the violence in this scene is preceded by verbal abuse, which makes the physical attack especially disturbing. A family experiences the loss of a beloved pet.

Did you know you can flag iffy content? Adjust limits for Violence & Scariness in your kid's entertainment guide.

Sex, Romance & Nudity

Auggie's high school-age sister, Via, has a boyfriend, and they kiss a few times.

Did you know you can flag iffy content? Adjust limits for Sex, Romance & Nudity in your kid's entertainment guide.

Positive Messages

Wonder has a powerful way of reminding readers that beauty is only skin deep. The novel also offers lessons about the dangers of responding to peer pressure and the importance of simple human kindness. The precepts that Mr. Browne teaches his students also introduce various meaningful ideas.

Positive Role Models

Almost all of the adults in Wonder are strong role models for Auggie; his sister, Via; and their friends. Auggie's parents, in particular, are so loving, devoted, patient, and kind that their kids' friends wish they could join the Pullman family. Auggie's teachers and Mr. Tushman, the director of Beecher Prep, are caring educators who deftly ease Auggie out of some challenging situations but also let him find his own way socially. Auggie himself shows grace, as well as enough believable kid emotion to make him as convincing as he is admirable.

Diverse Representations

Main character Auggie has a craniofacial condition, and the book centers around his experiences. He's a complex character with realistic kid emotions and flaws. The rest of his family members provide great examples of how to support a loved one living with a visible disability. Though the novel stops short of endorsing disability hierarchy, it does unfortunately use casual ableism when Auggie yells, "I'm not retarded!" (It's never explained to Auggie that this isn't acceptable.) As written by female author R.J. Palacio, women in the book, such as Auggie's mom and sister, have important roles. Characters' ethnicities aren't made clear, but physical markers include Auggie's brown eyes, Via's "olive skin and the bluest eyes," and Mr. Tushman's "blue eyes with white eyelashes," and there are supporting characters with blond and brown hair. A minor character is named Mrs. Garcia.

Did we miss something on diversity? Suggest an update .

Educational Value

Wonder 's greatest lessons are more emotional or behavioral than academic. But the book does go into some detail about genetics and the probability of a child developing physical differences like Auggie's. The novel also offers a telling look at middle school life and curriculum and a bit of information about the differences between middle school and high school culture. One of the teachers, Mr. Browne, teaches his students about precepts, and they discuss a new precept every month. Many of these are great life lessons from authors, spiritual leaders, and philosophers.

Where to Read

Parent and kid reviews.

Parents say (61)
Kids say (276)

Based on 61 parent reviews

Read this! It’s awesome!

What's the story.

August "Auggie" Pullman is a fifth-grade boy with a craniofacial condition. His loving parents and sister have shielded him from many outside influences before WONDER begins, and he's been homeschooled up until that point. But at the start of the book, his mother has decided that it's time for Auggie to brave a group schooling experience. Auggie is upset and afraid to face the other kids' reactions to his appearance, but there's also part of him that wants to do "normal" things. The director of his new school, Mr. Tushman, introduces Auggie to a small group of students before school starts, thinking this will help ease the transition. While some of the students Auggie meets are accepting and kind, others are a bit put off by him, and still others are downright cruel. The novel follows Auggie's first year of middle school from beginning to end. It's a year in which Auggie experiences the best and the worst of human nature and a year of tremendous emotional growth for him.

Is It Any Good?

Auggie himself is a very convincing and poignant character -- definitely not just a device -- and his story is extremely moving and uplifting. Author R.J. Palacio writes Wonder in multiple voices, including Auggie's, some of his friends', and his sister's. The different points of view are mostly very well-realized and show the inner feelings of the different characters -- though a couple of aspects of Wonder don't ring fully true. Auggie's parents are almost too perfect to be believed, and the main mean kid in the novel is a bit too easily dispensed with.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

Families can talk about peer pressure and how it's portrayed in Wonder . Sometimes we feel pushed to reject someone -- even a friend -- because others don't like that person. How would you handle the situation that Jack Will faces?

Why do you think some people are cruel to Auggie?

If you wrote a precept -- like Mr. Browne's class does -- what would it be?

Do you think Auggie's parents did the right thing in sending him to school? Why, or why not?

In what ways does Wonder encourage compassion ? Which characters seem the most compassionate to you? Why is this an important character strength ?

Book Details

Author : R.J. Palacio
Genre : Coming of Age
Topics : Brothers and Sisters , Friendship , Great Boy Role Models
Character Strengths : Compassion
Book type : Fiction
Publisher : Alfred A. Knopf
Publication date : February 14, 2012
Publisher's recommended age(s) : 8 - 12
Number of pages : 320
Last updated : November 9, 2023

Did we miss something on diversity?

Research shows a connection between kids' healthy self-esteem and positive portrayals in media. That's why we've added a new "Diverse Representations" section to our reviews that will be rolling out on an ongoing basis. You can help us help kids by suggesting a diversity update.

Suggest an Update

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Wonder by R. J. Palacio: Book Review By Jess Lahey and Her Son, Ben

Wonder is a transformative book. Our reviewers, Jess Lahey, author of the forthcoming The Gift of Failure and a frequent contributor to the New York Times and The Atlantic , and her son, Ben, a sophomore at St. Johnsbury Academy in Vermont, tell us why it is a must read.

Previous review: Book Review For Teens: John Green Looking for Alaska

TEEN REVIEW | Ben Lahey

August Pullman, the main character of Wonder by R. J. Palacio, is only 10 years old, but his story engages readers of any age. August was born with a severe facial deformity that leaves him unable to attend school, until the fifth grade, when his family decides it’s time for him to try to give up homeschooling .

Wonder tells the story of August’s first year of school through his own eyes, as well as the eyes of four other characters. The narrators range from fifth graders to high schoolers, with different points of view that flesh out not only their individual personalities, but also how August touches the lives of those around him. Even though the story is told from different perspectives, it’s never confusing; August always remains the book’s focus and is never overshadowed by their insights and observations.

Palacio uses few details to describe August’s deformity, but those that he does use are shocking. With only our imagination to complete the picture, we are left with a shocking image in our minds. August himself says, “I won’t describe what I look like. Whatever you’re thinking, it’s probably worse.”

The characters don’t deal with August’s deformity easily. Even months after first meeting him, August’s classmates are still not used to his face. The class becomes split between August’s friends and the kids who still bully him. Every character is written convincingly, and the sides they take earn either our empathy or judgment.

And Palacio doesn’t shy away from showing how parent-teacher politics play into this “war,” as August calls it. It’s easy to hate the parents and their kids who are so uncomfortable with August that they want him removed from the school. It’s equally as easy to love those kids who befriend August.

Wonder’s emotional moments work because the reader is so fully attached to the characters. Palacio makes every moment of August’s life seem real. Even the hardships that most of us will never have to face. Wonder comes close to making us understand what the life of someone with a deformity such as August’s would be like, and that is no small feat.

ADULT REVIEW | Jess Lahey

Despite his first-sentence assertion, “I know I’m not an ordinary 10-year-old kid,” August Pullman is just that. He’s a gloriously, spectacularly, and reassuringly ordinary 10-year-old kid. Sure, this central character in the coming-of-age novel, Wonder by R. J. Palacio, may not look like most kids his age, but he sure sounds a lot like them. And this is the genius of Palacio’s storytelling.

I’ve never been a fan of shifting perspectives, mainly because the narrative style feels like a cop-out, as if the author does not possess the storytelling chops to deliver the story’s nuances through a single narrator. This is August’s story, after all, and August is the only person who understands what it’s like to face the big, bad world when all the world sees is his disfigured face. The story is rightly his to tell, from his unique perspective, in his distinctive voice.

How wrong I was.

Tweens and adolescents tend to believe that they are the sole arbiters of the truth. Palacio demonstrates this by using five characters—August, Jack, Summer, Via, and Justin—to narrate their own version of August Pullman’s fifth grade year.

While Wonder is August’s story, Via, August’s sister points out that his gravitational pull influences everyone. “August is the Sun. Me and Mom and Dad are planets orbiting the Sun. The rest of our family and friends are asteroids and comets floating around the planets orbiting the Sun.” August may be at the center of this book’s universe, but he’s certainly not alone. As I progressed through the orbiting accounts of August’s year, I began to understand that Palacio’s use of multiple perspectives does not separate the experiences of these children. It unites them.

To paraphrase Beecher Prep Middle School Director, Mr. Tushman, the attraction of August’s heart, and the people he carries up and holds in orbit around it, are the stars of this story. When the story came to an end, and I fully appreciated what had, at first glance, been invisible to me. I was happy to have been drawn in to Palacio’s expansive vision.

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Summary and Reviews of Wonder by R.J. Palacio

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First Published:
Feb 14, 2012, 320 pages

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About This Book

Book summary.

Wonder is a spare, warm, uplifting story that will have readers laughing one minute and wiping away tears the next.

Winner of the BookBrowse 2012 Best Book for Younger Readers Award

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. Ages 8+

Ordinary I know I'm not an ordinary ten-year-old kid. I mean, sure, I do ordinary things. I eat ice cream. I ride my bike. I play ball. I have an XBox. Stuff like that makes me ordinary. I guess. And I feel ordinary. Inside. But I know ordinary kids don't make other ordinary kids run away screaming in playgrounds. I know ordinary kids don't get stared at wherever they go. If I found a magic lamp and I could have one wish, I would wish that I had a normal face that no one ever noticed at all. I would wish that I could walk down the street without people seeing me and then doing that look-away thing. Here's what I think: the only reason I'm not ordinary is that no one else sees me that way. But I'm kind of used to how I look by now. I know how to pretend I don't see the faces people make. We've all gotten pretty good at that sort of thing: me, Mom and Dad, Via. Actually, I take that back: Via's not so good at it. She can get really annoyed when people do something rude. Like, ...

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BookBrowse Awards 2012

Media Reviews

Reader reviews, bookbrowse review.

Wonder rings its bell, and the note that reverberates in the air slips effortlessly into the reader's body. It hangs there, and the reader can't help but be changed. It is a meditation of a novel. A story that asks the reader to feel her way into kindness, empathy, and openness. And without a doubt, the reader, upon experiencing it, responds with a deep, resounding yes . Wonder is recommended for middle grade and young adult readers. It is a perfect book to open up discussions between students or book club members... continued

(Reviewed by Tamara Ellis Smith ).

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Beyond the Book

R.j. palacio's inspiration for wonder.

Whatever you're thinking, it's probably worse. This is Auggie's statement on page one of Wonder about the appearance of his face. R.J. Palacio (whose real name is Raquel Jaramillo... Palacio is her mother's last name) makes a very conscious choice not to explore Auggie's disfigurement head-on, and I think it's a good one. Instead, she allows the reader to create her own images and then, very slowly and from a slanted sort of angle, Palacio gives details. Because at the heart of issue is, well, Auggie's heart, and that is all that matters. I don't want to dishonor Palacio's choice, but I will give you a bit of information about Auggie's condition. He has something called Mandibulofacial Dysostosis , which is more typically known as ...

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Wonder, by R.J. Palacio | Book Review

Book Review of Wonder The Children’s Book Review

Written by R.J. Palacio

Ages 10+ | 320 Pages

Publisher: Knopf Books for Young Readers | ISBN-13: 978037586902

What to Expect: Disabilities, Self-Esteem, and Kindness

Kindness is an outstanding trait we all possess, so long as we choose to access it. It is an essential aspect of being human.

In the captivating, award-winning New York Times bestselling novel Wonder by R.J. Palacio, the theme of exhibiting kindness is explored in an inspiring way. The story revolves around a 10-year-old boy named August Pullman living with rare facial deformities. Auggie, as he is affectionately called, yearns to be accepted for who he is and not judged based on his looks. Due to having had 27 surgeries, both big and small, and lots of illness, August (Auggie), up until now, has been home-schooled.

Through Palacio’s vivid writing, readers journey through Auggie’s first year in school and see through the eyes of fifth-grade classmates and his sister, guiding us through valuable insights into the process of accepting someone different from us. Wonder is a heartwarming tale of bravery, love, and kindness. It is a call to action for us to strive towards our best selves and to choose kindness in every situation. This powerful and inspiring book has been a global phenomenon, with Auggie’s story inspiring a growing movement of compassion and empathy toward others.

Reading Wonder will undoubtedly help you embrace its message and become a part of this growing movement.

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About the author.

R. J. Palacio was born and raised in New York City. She attended the High School of Art and Design and the Parsons School of Design, where she majored in illustration with the hopes of someday following in the footsteps of her favorite childhood author-illustrators, Antoine de Saint-Exupéry, Maurice Sendak , and the D’Aulaires . She was a graphic designer and art director for many years before writing Wonder .

We’re All Wonders , which is based conceptually on the themes of her novel, represents the fulfillment of her dream to write and illustrate her own picture book. R.J. is also the author of Auggie & Me: Three Wonder Stories and 365 Days of Wonder: Mr. Browne’s Book of Precepts . She lives in Brooklyn, where she is surrounded by magical water towers, with her husband, their two sons, and their two dogs, Bear and Beau.

Learn more about her at https://wonderthebook.com/about or on Twitter at @RJPalacio .

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Bianca Schulze is the founder of The Children’s Book Review. She is a reader, reviewer, mother and children’s book lover. She also has a decade’s worth of experience working with children in the great outdoors. Combined with her love of books and experience as a children’s specialist bookseller, the goal is to share her passion for children’s literature to grow readers. Born and raised in Sydney, Australia, she now lives with her husband and three children near Boulder, Colorado.

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6 Reasons Why You Should Read Wonder by R.J. Palacio

Why You Should Read WONDER

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Mr. Brown's Pecepts from Wonde r
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Themes and Analysis

By r. j. palacio.

R. J. Palacio explores themes of kindness, empathy, and the challenges of living with disabilities with the story of Auggie's early school days in Beecher Prep.

Main Themes

Kindness : This novel stresses the importance of empathy and compassion in dealing with others .
Acceptance : The story also highlights overcoming prejudice and embracing differences between people.
Resilience : A key focus of this story is August's perseverance in the face of adversity.
Multi-perspective narrative : The narration follows different characters’ viewpoints, providing depth.
Conversational tone : The dialogue reflects natural speech among school children, making it relatable to teens.
Optimistic yet realistic tone : The novel addresses serious issues but with a hopeful and encouraging outlook
Astronaut helmet : This symbolizes August's desire to hide and his struggle with self-acceptance.
Mr. Browne’s precepts : These represent guiding moral principles and thematic lessons.
Padawan braids : Cutting off his braids marks August’s growth and journey toward self-acceptance.

August starts school after being homeschooled, facing social challenges and prejudice. This explores the importance of kindness and the impact of bullying.

August navigates friendships and betrayals. He experiences the ups and downs of real relationships, the vulnerability, and the happiness that comes with it.

August gains acceptance and wins an award on graduation day, recognition of his impact on his schoolmates. This symbolizes his resilience and growth.

Continue down for complete analysis to Wonder

Article written by Ebuka Igbokwe

Bachelor's degree from Nnamdi Azikiwe University.

“ Wonder” addresses a few social issues, including parenting, disability issues, and what it means to be a friend. It does so in the story of August Pullman, a fifth-grader with a deformed face who faces up to being different in his new school. R. J. Palacio makes a poignant social commentary with this work.

The novel explores several themes, including kindness, acceptance, and the impact of outward appearances on personal identity. Through its multi-perspective storytelling, “ Wonder ” notes the significance of empathy and care in people’s lives.

The central message of “ Wonder” is the importance of kindness. This is expressed quite early in the novel, as the English teacher introduces the class to learn a precept every month. His choice for the first month is a quote by Dr. Dwayne W. Dyer: “When given the choice between being right and being kind, choose kindness.”

Summer moves to become friends with August because she is moved to kindness when seeing other kids avoid him at lunch. She realizes that August is an exciting and fun person to be around. Jack also befriends August initially out of kindness, and he sees and then appreciates him for his humble, humorous, and intelligent personality. August is surrounded by kindness, expressed by his family, Miranda, his friends at school, and Principal Tushman, which makes it easy for him to bear the isolation he faces at school.

Appearances

August’s facial deformity is a focal point of the story. He begins by hoping that people will see him as ordinary, and he wears a helmet to cover his face for a while so that people may not see his face. He also looked forward to Halloween because everyone wore masks, and he was treated like everyone else. This highlights how people are judged by their appearances, and in the case of August, they make judgments about him based on his appearance. However, he is more than his looks, and the more the people around him get to know him, the more they appreciate how thoughtful, intelligent, and funny he is.

On the other hand, Julian is an expert at making others believe he is a great guy, but underneath that facade, he is malicious and conniving. He says mean things to August and lies against Jack Will when they fall out. Also, Miranda and Via were good friends, but their relationship became strained when they resumed school because they misread what each friend felt about the other. In “ Wonder” , looks can indeed be deceiving.

The theme of courage appears in several instances in R. J. Palacio’s “ Wonder”. Sometimes , it is subtle; other times, it is pronounced. It is hard to fully appreciate the bravery it took for August to start at Beecher Prep and continue attending school, withstanding all the bullying he goes through. He was ostracized at the lunch table, in class, and in the playground, and for a significant part of the story, his only companion at lunch was Summer. Summer’s courage is also remarkable. By being August’s friend when no one else wanted to be seen publicly with him and resisting the allure of joining the popular social group at school at the price of giving up August’s company, Summer showed her mettle as a steadfast and brave friend. At the camp, when a group of seventh graders bullies August, Jack Will, joined later by a few other Beecher Prep fifth graders, engages them in a fight to protect August.

The story of “ Wonder ” explores the dynamics and nature of friendship. Friends fight, misunderstand, offend, and betray. They also apologize, forgive, defend, and are gracious to each other. Jack Will jeopardizes his friendship with August by claiming to be his friend because Principal Tushman asks. This hurts August, and Jack Will is deeply sorry, makes amends, and apologizes to August. August forgives him and accepts him back. Summer’s friendship with August is beautiful and wholesome, depicting a rare ideal where friends respond to each other’s true humanity and look beyond what is externally “cool”. In Miranda and Via’s friendship, though at the start of the story they are estranged, in the end, Miranda gives up her spot as the lead in the school play because she understands how much it would mean to Via. These stand in contrast to Julian’s comradeship, bound together by prejudice against August, which unravels at the end of the story as their classmates warm up to August and recognize his charming nature.

Parenting is an essential factor in the development of children. The Pullmans are a model of good parenting, attentive to their children’s needs and creating a loving and harmonious environment to support them. Miranda, whose parents divorced, starved her of attention, and Justin, also a child of divorcees, was drawn to the Pullman family because of the warmth and love in their household, traits missing in their respective houses. However, even the model Pullman family is not without its issues. In taking care of August, a child with a deformity that needed special care and delicate attention, they sometimes neglected Via and her needs. Via is sometimes resigned to and sometimes resents this lack of attention. The novel addresses the difficulties parents face when raising children with health-challenging issues or needing special care.

We also see how parents’ principles rub off on their children. Jack Will’s mother exemplifies a parent who tries to raise her children conscientiously, as reflected in Jack Will’s actions. Even when he strays, he feels the better thing he should do and tries to improve. Julian’s villainous actions make more sense to the reader when they read the letters Julian’s mother writes: she is shallow, pompous, and generally corrupt.

Tone and Literary Style

R.J. Palacio’s “ Wonder ” is characterized by a simple, accessible, conversational writing style that resonates with young and adult readers. The novel employs a first-person narrative, shifting perspectives among several characters , including August, his sister Via, and his friends Jack and Summer. This multi-perspective approach allows readers to gain a comprehensive understanding of the story’s events and the emotional landscapes of the characters. For example, August’s straightforward, honest narration captures his innocence and vulnerability: “I know I’m not an ordinary ten-year-old kid.” The use of varied perspectives adds depth to the narrative, showcasing how different individuals perceive and are affected by August’s presence in their lives.

The language is plain yet evocative, making it easy for readers to connect with the characters’ experiences. Palacio’s choice to write in a manner that mirrors the natural speech of children and teenagers adds authenticity to the characters.

The story’s tone is a delicate balance of optimism and realism. While the novel tackles serious issues like bullying, prejudice, and the struggles associated with physical deformities, it does so with a hopeful and encouraging outlook. Palacio addresses the harsh realities of August’s condition and the cruelty he encounters but also touches on the resilience and strength he exhibits. The warmth and humor interspersed throughout the narrative help to lighten the more intense moments, making the story more engaging and relatable. This balance is evident in passages like when August reflects on his friends: “Funny how sometimes you worry a lot about something, and it turns out to be nothing.”

Palacio employs figurative language in the novel to enhance the narrative’s emotional resonance and thematic depth. Metaphors and similes vividly depict August’s experiences and the perceptions of those around him.

Symbolism is also prominent in the novel, with objects like August’s helmet and the Padawan braid symbolizing his struggles and growth. The helmet represents his initial desire to hide from the world while cutting off the braid symbolizes his journey toward self-acceptance and courage.

Key Moments in Wonder

August Pullman begins school: After being homeschooled all his life, August finds out he will start schooling at a private middle school. This marks the beginning of August’s journey into a broader social world, where he must face new challenges and opportunities for growth outside his family’s protective bubble.
August receives a school tour: Led by Jack Will, Julian, and Charlotte, August gets a peek preview of Beecher Prep, the school he will attend. This moment introduces the reader to key secondary characters and sets the stage for the relationships and conflicts shaping August’s school experience.
August’s first isolation at school: On his first day, all his classmates except Summer avoid sitting with him during lunch. Jack Will sits with him during class. This event highlights the initial isolation and prejudice August faces, as well as the kindness of Summer and the emerging friendship with Jack, which are crucial to his integration into school life.
August overhears Jack Will saying they are not friends: This is a significant emotional setback for August, as it shatters his trust in Jack and underscores the social pressures and misunderstandings that complicate friendships.
Savanna asks Summer to quit being friends with August : Savana gives Savanna the choice to remain friends with August or join the group of popular students. This moment tests Summer’s loyalty and integrity and reveals her strength of character for refusing to leave August. It also shows the social dynamics that challenge true friendship.
Jack discovers why August unfriends him: Jack asks Summer why August is no longer friends with him, and she gives him a hint. This interaction is crucial as it propels Jack to reflect on his behavior and take steps toward reconciliation, emphasizing the importance of communication and understanding.
Jack hits Julian for making fun of August : This defiance against bullying marks a turning point in Jack’s character, demonstrating his growing loyalty to August and willingness to stand up for what is right.
Jack reconciles with August : Jack writes August, asking for forgiveness, and August accepts his apology. They become friends once again. Their reconciliation is a pivotal moment that strengthens their bond and exemplifies themes of forgiveness and personal growth.
August finds out about Via’s school play: He discovers Via is hiding her participation in a school play from the family and accuses her of trying to hide him from her new schoolmates. This conflict reveals the complexities of family dynamics and the impact of August’s condition on Via, highlighting themes of sibling relationships and the desire for normalcy.
Daisy, the family pet dog, dies: Daisy’s death is a significant emotional moment for the family, symbolizing loss and change and bringing them closer together in their grief.
Miranda gives up her role for Via: Miranda steps down from the lead role in the school play, and Via steps in for her. After the play, they all go for a family dinner. This act of generosity by Miranda allows Via to shine, reinforcing themes of sacrifice and support. The family dinner symbolizes reconciliation and unity.
August is attacked on a school camping trip: A group from another school attacks him, but his classmates defend him. This event marks a crucial turning point in August’s social acceptance, as his classmates’ defense demonstrates their growing loyalty and solidarity.
August wins an award at school : At the graduation ceremony, August receives the Henry Beecher Award. The award recognizes August’s personal growth and resilience and symbolizes his acceptance and recognition by the school community. It is a moment of triumph and validation for his journey.

Through symbolism, “ Wonder ” explores acceptance, identity, and kindness. Symbols like the astronaut helmet, the universe, masks, precepts, names, and the Padawan braid enhance the narrative and provide readers with a profound understanding of August’s story.

The Astronaut Helmet

One of the most prominent symbols in “ Wonder ” is August’s astronaut helmet. August used to wear this helmet frequently to hide his face from the world, finding comfort and anonymity behind its visor. The helmet symbolizes August’s desire to escape judgment and his struggle with self-acceptance. However, it also represents his isolation and the emotional weight of needing to hide.

The Universe

The novel’s recurring motif of the universe and space is another significant symbol. August’s fascination with space and his self-identification with celestial imagery reflect his feelings of being different and isolated, akin to a unique star in the vast expanse of the universe. The universe symbolizes the broader context of human existence and the importance of each person’s contribution to the world, regardless of their differences.

The Julian Chapter and the Darth Sidious Mask

Julian Albans, one of August’s main antagonists, is associated with the Darth Sidious mask he wears on Halloween. This mask symbolizes Julian’s inner cruelty and the dark side of human nature, which judges and ostracizes others based on superficial differences. Halloween, a day when masks are worn, symbolizes hidden identities and the contrast between appearance and reality.

Precepts and Philosophical Quotes

Mr. Browne’s monthly precepts, introduced throughout the novel, serve as symbolic touchstones for the characters’ moral and ethical development. Each precept, such as “When given the choice between being right or being kind, choose kind,” symbolizes the lessons and values the characters, especially August, navigate and internalize. These precepts are classroom exercises and guiding principles influencing the characters’ actions and growth.

The Nature of Names

Names and their meanings also carry symbolic weight in the novel. August’s name is symbolic, evoking a sense of greatness and reverence. It contrasts with his feelings of insecurity and the way he perceives the world’s view of him. Via, short for Olivia, means “way” or “path” in Latin, symbolizing her role as a supportive figure and a guide in August’s life. The symbolic nature of names extends to the characters’ development and journeys toward self-discovery and acceptance.

The Padawan Braid

The Padawan braid that August cuts off symbolizes his transition and growth. In “ Star Wars” , a Padawan braid represents a Jedi apprentice’s journey and learning. By cutting off the braid, August signifies his readiness to face the world more independently, stepping into a new phase of his life with greater confidence. This act is a personal milestone, symbolizing his internal development and readiness to embrace his identity without relying on symbols of external strength.

Personal Perspective

“ Wonder ” by R. J. Palacio, centered around August “Auggie” Pullman, a boy with a facial disfiguration, is a powerful reminder of the importance of seeing beyond appearances and recognizing the shared humanity in everyone. The novel’s multi-narrative structure is noteworthy, as it allows readers to experience the story from various viewpoints. This approach enriches the narrative, offering a well-rounded understanding of how Auggie’s presence affects those around him. Auggie’s journey is particularly inspiring because it resonates with the universal desire to belong and be accepted. His courage in facing a world that often judges based on looks is both heart-wrenching and uplifting. The book celebrates compassion and how kindness has the power to transform lives. It’s a book that reminds young readers about the importance of empathy and the impact of even the smallest gestures of goodwill. The novel’s message is simple yet profound: being kind is always the right choice.

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About Ebuka Igbokwe

Ebuka Igbokwe is the founder and former leader of a book club, the Liber Book Club, in 2016 and managed it for four years. Ebuka has also authored several children's books. He shares philosophical insights on his newsletter, Carefree Sketches and has published several short stories on a few literary blogs online.

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Wonder | Book Review

July 14, 2020
July 27, 2021
Book Review

YOU CAN’T BLEND IN, WHEN YOU WERE BORN TO STAND OUT.

Wonder is a heart-warming book by R.J. Palacio. It shares the story of how a young boy called August Pullman, goes to school for the first time. August was born with a facial disorder, causing him to have over 30 different operations on his face. This problem sadly brings him to be reacted to and judged in various ways.

On his first day of school for a tour, in the summer holidays, he gets to meet 3 students who would be studying in his class: Jack Will, Charlotte and Julian. Julian, treats him harshly and questions him bitterly about his looks, saying it looks as though he was in a fire and his face had melted. However, he makes a particular friendship with Jack Will, who decides to defend him from the accusations made about his face.

Unfortunately, this bond does not last very long, as August finds out that his one and only friend despises him. Luckily, a girl called Summer, who isn’t even in his class becomes friends with him and helps him in difficult situations.

Horribly, on his 3 days trip away from home, kids from other schools bully him, however, he is helped by others from his school that had never even spoken to him before. This shows how those who didn’t take him as a friend still liked him and looked after him.

This is one of August prefects after going to school.

.ugb-aeccde4 .ugb-blockquote__quote{width:70px !important;height:70px !important} Everyone deserves a standing ovation because we all overcometh the world.” By Auggie .

This is one of my favorite books and is very heart-touching and emotional. Also, I liked how the author had shown everything in different characters’ perspectives to tell you why and what they were trying to do.

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A very well written review of the book “Wonder”. Did you know this amazing book has also turned into a film? however, we recommend reading the book first before watching the movie.

Review: Wonder by R.J. Palacio

I originally listened to Wonder on Audible, within months of publication, and despite the transatlantic divide, I saw myself vividly in ten-year-old August Pullman. I saw my loving middle-class family, and the sibling who felt both isolated and penned-in by the fallout of my condition. I felt my school anxiety, and the warmth of a small knot of friends, and the embarrassment of targeted bullying. I was thrilled that Auggie even had the same favourite films as I did.

And all of this was shown through the lens of disfigurement, through the eyes of a boy (in the chapters narrated by Auggie) whose eyelids were perhaps sewn at the margins just like mine, who might have my underbite. A character who would know what it’s like to put effort into speaking clearly every time you meet a new person, in case they think the movement of your lips equals your intelligence. All this, written by a woman with no direct experience of disfigurement. This was astounding to me; that someone who, in the end, could never know what it’s actually like seemed to have gotten it so “right.”

I knew the importance of owning one’s own story then, but that conviction only grew in the following years. And I would be reminded that many disabled, disfigured people don’t have the support system Auggie and I have, aren’t able to access the necessary healthcare, aren’t so safely white (or read as such). I’d discover that I’m not the comfortably cisgender boy I thought I was, the boy I thought I saw reflected in Auggie Pullman. In the time since I first read Wonder , my understanding of my disfigurement, and the world it occupies, has transformed. How will I now read and receive what was the most personally representative book of my life?

For starters, Auggie doesn’t have an underbite; in fact, he’s described as having the opposite, though his pronounced overbite does present similar difficulties with eating. Just like me, Auggie had to learn to keep his tongue inside his mouth.

On her website , author R.J. Palacio concedes that – if pushed – she would identify Auggie’s dominant anomaly as Treacher-Collins syndrome, with a cleft lip/palate, and numerous “medical mysteries” as described in the book. It’s these mysteries that rang the first small alarm bells upon re-reading; they seem only to be there to justify the title (inspired by a Natalie Merchant song ) and aren’t described in detail. The 2017 film has confirmed Auggie’s Treacher-Collins, but Palacio’s woolliness on specifying the condition has always seemed weird to me.

Auggie’s sister Via has an interest in genetics, and wants to go into the field to help future Auggies. Whether “help” means improving quality of life or totally preventing Treacher-Collins is an important distinction, one which is unfortunately left unclear. In a culture where genetic conditions are so often seen as problems to be solved by what amount to eugenicist “cures,” that clarity would be useful. But Via’s future intent remains a mystery, as do those aspects of Auggie’s condition previously described.

Besides August’s condition, Wonder is a very beige, cisheteronormative, upper-middle-class and surprisingly abled book. Throughout, August is defined as “not disabled.” He may look different – horrifically so to some – but as the book keeps insisting, deep down he has the same abilities as his family and friends. When a concerned mother writes to the director of Beecher Prep’s middle school, questioning Auggie’s fast-tracked admittance, the director shuts down her talk of the boy’s “special needs.” This moment is admittedly framed by good intentions, with Beecher’s director defending Auggie’s place at the school against a busybody, but when the disabilities of Auggie’s disfigurement are downplayed through the book, it certainly rubbed me a little wrong.

This seems like a missed opportunity, especially as August is the only visible disfigured/disabled character in the book – which, to me, is sad. Auggie has only abled, “normal” people around him; nobody alike to share experiences with, no mentor (or peer) with whom to explore what it means to be disfigured, or to discuss whether disfigurement is a disability. (I believe it is, per the social model .) Via’s boyfriend confides in the reader about his own nervous tics, but he doesn’t describe their origin, nor does he share any real page-time with August.

There are some issues beyond this as well. To borrow and bastardise Via’s solar system metaphor, they gravitate around the good intentions of the author. It’s necessary here to restate that R.J. Palacio doesn’t have direct experience with disfigurement; as far as anyone has been made aware through interviews, no one in her immediate family or peer group is disfigured. Rather, Palacio reports that the impetus to write Wonder came from an incident in which her young son reacted poorly to seeing a disfigured child. After removing her children from the situation immediately, Palacio retrospectively wished that she could have instead utilised the moment to teach –

[Hello, it’s those alarm bells again]

– perhaps engaging with the disfigured child. The spectre of the unpaid educational labour disabled people are expected to provide to abled allies rears its head.

And the question of how allies treat the marginalized is present throughout the most problematic narrative thread in Wonder . Since August’s birth, Via has dealt with the fallout of his needs, and become independent while Auggie is forever fussed over. At the same time, she puzzles over another kind of independence, from her estranged best friend Miranda, who herself has been almost another sister to Auggie. When Miranda’s point-of-view chapters arrive, Auggie’s true place between her and Via becomes apparent.

Around new friends at summer camp, Miranda talks about August as if he were her own brother in order to garner sympathy and the resultant social capital. Meanwhile, Via rejects the definition of “sister of a kid with a birth defect” that Miranda so readily exploits.

All comes to a head when Via and Miranda’s school puts on a play. When cast as Miranda’s understudy, Via refuses to tell her parents, in a bid to keep August away from the one part of her life he doesn’t impact. After a change of heart and circumstances, the Pullman parents and Auggie do end up attending the play. When she sees this, Miranda makes the last-minute decision to feign illness, allowing Via the opportunity to take the limelight, thus engineering Via’s reconciliation with her brother. Honourable, though not necessarily intentional. And what if August had known the full extent of how both Miranda and Via used and viewed him? I think he’d be well within his rights to feel significantly hurt, and to not forgive as easily as he does throughout the rest of the book.

Because, however hurt Auggie may be by someone, he almost always seems willing to shrug it off. More than once, a character who has done Auggie wrong will assume forgiveness, perhaps after a traumatic event has brought them back together, or laughter has thawed the ice. And each time, Auggie is quick to agree and move on. Perhaps the authorial justification is that Auggie doesn’t like dwelling on things. That’s fair enough, but it does telegraph something of a lack of agency.

Once noticed, this lack of agency is a glaring issue. Stuff happens to Auggie; we see him make choices to be more independent, when circumstances call for it, but his most significant fulfilment of agency is to shut out a friend. (This is also the one time when he doesn’t immediately forgive.) Active, positive actions aren’t Auggie’s to take. Plenty happens to him that is positive – he makes friends, he earns respect, he experiences a “seismic shift” in his social standing following a climactic incident at camp – but it is rarely his decision or intended action which causes it.

There are things that make me sad about Wonder. I wish these opportunities had been recognised and utilized. Auggie’s lack of real agency. The fact that Via and Miranda never truly examine their own actions, and how they treat their brother/“brother.” The marginalised identities which could have enriched the story, but instead will have to wait for the next kidlit book about disfigurement – and when will that be?

There are also things I find suspect or distasteful, such as the book’s meta-campaign “Choose Kind,” inspired by the monthly precepts (inspirational phrases) Auggie’s English teacher hands out. There’s anger in Wonder , mostly borne of pre-teen moodiness, but what does the edict “when given the choice between being right and being kind, choose kind” do, except stifle the valid and necessary anger of oppressed people?

It’s not as if R.J. Palacio is utterly unaware of power dynamics; she chose not to give bully Julian a narrative section in Wonder to avoid “[giving]a bully a platform” (although she would later go on to write a short story from Julian’s perspective). She has also said that she most relates to the character of Charlotte, “a good girl, but she’s not quite brave enough to act on her good instincts.” (Both of these insights come from the very informative FAQ page on Palacio’s Wonder website.)

I think what makes me saddest is the fact that Palacio didn’t have direct knowledge to draw from, due to the lack of a significant disfigured person in her life.

Moving beyond the disfigurement representation, it’s important to note that the Pullmans are a (likely) white, reasonably well-off family, living in “a brick townhouse in North River Heights, the hippie-stroller capital of upper- upper Manhattan.” Outside the text, Palacio does concede that Auggie’s father probably “[works]long hours to try and pay for all the medical bills not covered by insurance,” but the fact that no such bills are agonised over within Wonder suggests a fairly easy life. Beecher Prep, by its nature, is attended mostly by students like the Pullmans, whose parents can afford the tuition fees. August has a friend who is probably one of the few exceptions, but it’s never explicitly clear.

And this world seems unconcerned, at best, with race. There are several students with names that suggest they’re kids of colour, but none of their identities are touched upon. More promising are the nods to Isabel Pullman’s Brazilian heritage – August is clearly named after her father, Agosto, and her parents’ travels are described – but hopes that it’s a mixed-race family are dashed when August visits the home of his friend Summer. On seeing a photo of her late father (whose ethnicity is left unclear), Summer confirms her own mixed heritage, and there’s certainly no sense of kinship from Auggie.

For a book published so recently, set in New York City, it is also sad – and somewhat surprising – that there are no nods to LGBTQIA identities. The one (upsetting) exception is a character’s use of “your boyfriend” as a pejorative against an antagonist late in the story.

For all the neglected intersections of identity mourned above, Wonder remains an engaging, enjoyable book. R.J. Palacio’s ten-year-old voices are consistently believable, as are those of her slightly older narrators. The journey of the narrative is satisfying; every major character learns something important about themselves and the world they inhabit.

I still love Wonder , about as much as I did when I first read it. I just want it to be better, so I can evangelise it everywhere, like I used to. Because despite its flaws, Wonder is an engaging, heart-rending story about disfigurement, and the world needs those books.

Perhaps when/if I do see Wonder the film, I’ll write more about it, but for now, you can easily find Twitter threads I’ve made on the subject. More importantly, I want to link to a couple of pieces by others with facial disfigurements/visible differences. First, from American writer Ariel Henley, this article on how the film exploits facial difference , and an Atlantic review of the film , also from Ariel. Finally, I want to share this exhaustive master-post from Australian writer Carly Findlay which covers pretty much every angle of concern about the film.

Thank you for reading these pieces and mine, and I hope that you’ll remember to prioritise and support voices of disfigurement/visible difference, when our lives and livelihoods get thrust into the spotlight.

About Author

Mike Moody is a 27-year-old Disfigured trans woman living in the UK. She makes music and writes when executive function and inspiration (in that order) allow, and takes semi-regular trips to Florida to be with her girlfriend, where she is too hot in the summer and just right in the winter. Mike tweets @guysmiley22 , probably a little too much for her mental health.

26 Comments

Thank you so much, Mike.

Thank you Mike for a thoughtful review of this beautiful and yet challenging title. The thing that struck me in reading it was how easily August’s classmates understood him. In the past I taught a fairly wide variety of students in special education in the US. A few of them had facial disfigurements as part of other medical conditions and I taught a student who was recovering from severe burns over much of his body. What I found the disfigured students struggled with the most was being understood in conversation by their peers. Because they didn’t always produce the anticipated facial expression to accompany their speech their peers tended to misread their intentions, their tone, their mood. This was particularly true of the child with substantial burn scars over most of his face. I’m not disfigured myself, so perhaps this was just the issue most apparent to me as a teacher. And maybe I’m off base entirely. Still I had my hesitations from the beginning because the book seemed to overlook such a central issue. I’m an indie bookseller and I do book talks for teachers all the time. I’ll be sure to point them in the direction of this review when Wonder comes up. Thank you for being so thoughtful and thorough in your critique.

HI Mike, Let me start off by saying you did a very good job at being thorough and making it easy to understand what the story was about, especially for someone like me who hasn’t read it yet. I have heard many good things about this book. Just from your critique I read that it talks about children with disabilities or disfigurements and how it is important for students to treat one another the same no matter what how someone looks or acts. They deserve the same respect as others. I think I would probably really love this book because I am currently going to school for teaching and I believe this is an issue we still have because sometimes individuals don’t truly understand why someone was born the way they were or whatever the case is but to teach that it is important to respect everyone and treat them the same as you would want to be treated. Thank you for your critique and I look forward to reading this book.

I am really impressed by your expressions. Actually, I feel the people who are deformed on their faces do not want that. Deformities can be genetic or accidental. More than that, disfigured people always need someone who can understand and can share with them. However, the way people around treat disfigured people makes them difficult to interact with. Many people will tend to misunderstand or isolate people who have deformed faces. That will create a big gap between people. I am really grateful, and I am sure I will find and read this book.

I really enjoyed your detailed review of this inspiring yet thought-provoking title, “Wonder”. In your review several thinks stuck out to me. In the before part of your review you talked about how relatable you felt to ten-year-old August Pullman. You discussed in detail how you felt the pressures of meeting new people and them thinking because your speech may be delayed that they would judge your intelligence from this. I wonder, is the pressure still high when you meet people? Has your reading of this book ‘Wonder’, gave you more confidence to mingle with others? You also talked about how the author, R.J. Palacio was a woman who never experienced disfigurement, but actually got the character right. Why do you think this is? Do you think she knew or shadowed someone to really capture the essence for the character? These are some questions that I have after reading your very insightful review. Also, you talked about how easy it was for Auggie’s friends to understand him. I feel like the author did fluff a lot of what in reality would not happen. In the real world August would not have been understood so quickly if at all by peers that were not like him. Your review has really give me lots of insight from the book perspective. Most of your questions and thoughts throughout your after part of your review, has me also pondering the same questions. I saw the movie and I am going to read the book very soon to make comparisons. I thought the movie was amazing! I didn’t realize that the character in the movie wasn’t a disfigured person in real life. Thank you Mike for your review and I hope that you change your mind about watching the movie!

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I know this was written a while back, but unfortunately R.J Palacio’s website doesn’t seem to be working now.

I think that is article was written quite well. This my first time hearing a review on this story and I think you raise some very good points. You are definitely right. The author should’ve included more information as it pertains to Auggie’s condition. However, I think that one of the reasons why they left it up in the air may have been for the readers to explore and do some personal research. Another thing that I found interesting was the idea that Auggie is from a high-middle class family. I wonder what his life would’ve been like if he were from a lower class. I know his access to schools would be much more limited and that may affect the reactions from his peers and I also think that he wouldn’t have access to the best medical resources. I have not yet read or seen Wonder but I think that it does start a conversation on the physical disfiguration known as Treacher-Collins. I think that the next best step would be to create a film that would focus on someone who actually has the condition, or like you said, cast someone in a movie that already has the condition as opposed to using prosthetics for the actors.

Mike, Your critique of this book was spot on. This book has been read by all the teenagers in my house and they all love it. They are on Auggie’s side and don’t understand why people are so cruel. They have seen many child with various disabilities and see them as no different from themselves. It’s been one of the great benefits of me working in the special education field. I try to teach my own kids and the kids in my classroom to be accepting of all people and they’re differences.

As a future teacher i found this book very interesting, especially it being targeted for middle schoolers. This book deals with something all students can relate too, whether that’s being new to a school, being bullied by classmates, or other related themes that go on in school. Overall this book portrays plenty if positive messages. It is a good book to share with students, the message is all about being kind to one another. Everyone needs someone to give them unconditional love.

I read wonder about 2 years ago! I will admit it made me cry tears of frustration and later joy. I could vividly feel and see what it was like to be each character in the story through the authors words. At the time I was working at a middle school and it was a school wife project for everyone to read the book. It was so touching and heart warming to see the other students reactions to the book. I was working with a student that has Pierre Robins syndrome and he had to wear a trach in order to breathe. I always felt protective of him when we walked in the halls or outside because I could see the stares from parents and other students and I didn’t want the student to fall under the gaze of those looks. Deep down I know I could never protect him from society and he has been living with this condition his whole life. But my nurturing soul couldn’t help it. After reading this book I could see hat more student started giving him high fives in the hall. It was just very warming. August is heroic in my eyes. I’m so glad he had the support from his family in friends each step of the way.

I read Wonder about 2 years ago while working in the school system and it was a school wide assignment to read Wonder and complete a project. All around the halls we had the saying “choose Kindness”.I will admit it made cry tears of joy and frustration. I could vividly feel and imagine what it was like for each character in the story through the authors words. At the time I was working with a young man that was born with Pierre Robins syndrome and had to wear a trach in order to breathe. I always felt protective of him when we walked in the halls or outside because I could see the stares from the parents and other student. I wanted to protect him from falling under gazes of concern or just curiosity. Deep down I knew I could never protect him from society. I think he may have coped with the looks better than me being that he’s been living with the condition his whole life. All the characters in Wonder were heroic to me. I could see how things shifted in the school after reading this book! I noticed the student I was working with kind of had a little more confidence.

Your review of this book definitely made me want to read it and learn more about August Pullman. Disabilities come in many shapes and forms and as a special education teacher, I love to read and learn more about others perspectives regarding any kind of disabilities and how if effects them personally. I see there was a movie made about this book and I’m looking forward to seeing that as well!

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I loved you review. I haven’t read the book or watched the movie, however you have made ask my self some questions about the books i am buying for my children. My children will not learn about all the wonderful people in the world if I don’t expose them to them.

Mike this was an amazing review of this reading! I definitely agree that the author should’ve included more information about the characters condition. Another thing that I found interesting was the idea that Auggie is from a high-middle class family his access to schools would be much more limited and that may affect the reactions from his classmates and I also think that he wouldn’t have access to the best medical resources which would have unfortunately made his life even more difficult but ultimately more relatable for some readers. I completely agree that they should cast someone in a movie that already has the condition as opposed to using prosthetics and for the actors.

I have not read this book; however, I would like to read about how disabilities appproached in this book. I want to be sensitive to children that may experience bullying or be outcast by their peers. I have a nephew that has no hands and no feet. His siblings are very aware of this and are quite protective. They do not hesitate to stare down a person who may be whispering and pointing at their brother. Nothing stops my nephew from learning to do whatever he wants to do academically or physically. I would hope this book would point out the importance of family support of children with abilities that may be different from other children.

Thank you for this thoughtful and very detailed book review. I am studying to become an elementary teacher and learning about children with different disabilities is very important to me. This book sounds like it would make me cry. Bullying in school by your peers is not easy to deal with, however, Wonder has many positive messages we can all relate to. I can’t wait to read the book and see the movie.

Mike, you did a great job with this review. I have read and watched the movie and I loved them both. This was actually the first book I ever read about a child with a disability. It made me realize that there aren’t many books available that show a child with a disability going through there day to day lives. I think that this book is important for kids to read because it gives them a different perspective on how to treat people. I do think that the author could have gone into more detail about the condition but overall I would say they did a great job. I also loved how they not only showed the boys life but also how his condition affected his entire family.

Thank you for the critique of the book. I really enjoyed your thorough and detailed review that would definitely help people struggling have a better understanding of it. I think all students should be required to read this book because it really shows how everyone should be treated equality no matter what. This kid struggled getting picked on by his fellow classmates just by the way he looks. It really does raise awareness with disabilities and bullying so all schools should have it required to read around the time of middle school. The book really shows that everyone should have love, kindness, and respect with one another because at the end of the day you don’t know what the person is going through.

Thank you for this post! My daughter has CHARGE syndrome, and has a small eye ( microphthalmia ) as well as vision and hearing loss, short stature, and developmental delay. She has always fought to fit in, and she is struggling really hard in 8th grade. We have all read Wonder, and watched the movie as a family. She can really relate to Auggie, and I think her brother and sister can relate to Via. Thanks again for perspective, I really enjoyed it!

What is this comment section? What is happening? And I remember reading the interview where she talks about her ‘inspiration’ for the book in a kids magazine when I was way younger. It never quite sat perfect with me. And I would have been soooo bugged about the ‘helping kids like Auggie’ thing when it’s never clarified how she wants to help/””””””””help””””””” (flashbacks to when I tried to convince my entire biology class that using genetic engineering to prevent autism and ADHD wouldn’t actually be a good thing until the only other kid in said class with ADHD finally put me out of my misery and asked the teacher to change the subject. For context, at that point I don’t really think anyone else in the class knew there were kids with ADHD in said class).

Hi Mike, thanks for the review. I am a woman who has lived with a disfigurement since birth, and I had a really hard time getting through Wonder. What a perfect example of the very concept of inspiration porn. I am glad you are injecting some much-needed nuance into the conversation, it’s exhausting to hear people defend this book and act like it’s the perfect work of fiction.

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by R.J. Palacio

Wonder Summary

August or "Auggie" Pullman, a ten-year-old boy living in New York City, was born with a facial deformity that has made it difficult for him to make friends. He lives with his parents, his older sister Via, and his dog Daisy. He has been homeschooled up until the fifth grade, but his parents have decided that it is time for him to go to a real school. They enroll him in Beecher Prep, a neighborhood private school, and take him to meet the principal, Mr. Tushman . While August is there, some of the kids who will be in August's grade take him on a tour of the school; one of them, Jack Will , is nice, but another, Julian, is noticeably rude.

Auggie settles into the first few months of school and his classmates slowly get used to the way his face looks. He becomes friends with Jack, and with a girl named Summer who sits with him at lunch on the first day. Apparently, a rumor that touching Auggie will give you the "plague" arises, so his classmates make a point of avoiding touching him, so that Auggie begins to feel alienated. Things get a lot worse on Halloween, typically Auggie's favorite day of the year, when Auggie overhears Jack say to Julian and some other boys that he would kill himself if he looked like Auggie. Jack is completely unaware that Auggie himself is sitting nearby, disguised in a Bleeding Scream costume.

The story switches perspective to Via, Auggie's older sister, who begins high school at the same time that Auggie starts middle school. Via has had to come to terms with the fact that her family's universe revolves around Auggie and his needs; hers often get pushed to the side. The only person who put her first was her grandmother, Grans , who is dead by the time the narrative begins.

Via is also dealing with school issues, since her former best friends, Miranda and Ella , stopped talking to her over the summer. Via feels neglected after the first day of school, since her mother appears more concerned with Auggie's day than with hers. A rift continues to grow between Via and her former friends, and Via settles into new group. On Halloween, Via is confused when Auggie comes home early, claiming to be sick and refusing to go trick or treating. He reveals to her what happened with Jack, and she convinces him that some kids will always be mean. Auggie, according to her, must move past such dilemmas and keep going to school. Auggie surprises Via by telling her that Miranda called to talk to him, and asked about her.

Next comes Summer's point of view. Summer spends time with Auggie because she legitimately wants to be his friend, not because Mr. Tushman asked her to. Since Auggie is mad at Jack, Summer becomes his best friend, and their two families hit it off as well. Summer struggles over whether to keep hanging out with Auggie or to hang out with the popular crowd instead, but ultimately chooses Auggie. When Jack eventually asks Summer why Auggie is mad at him, she gives him one clue: "Bleeding Scream."

The next section is told from Jack's perspective, and he backtracks to when Mr. Tushman first asked him to try to be a friend to the new student. He remembers seeing Auggie when they were both very little: at this earlier time, Jack was disconcerted by Auggie's face. Jack also has some struggles at home, since his family is not wealthy -- a sharp contrast to some other families with children in private schools.

When Jack puts two and two together and figures out what Auggie overheard, he feels terrible. He really does want to be Auggie's friend, but he got caught up in an attempt to be accepted by kids like Julian. When Julian tells him one day that being friends with Auggie is not worth it, Jack gets so angry that he punches Julian in the face. This conflict sets off a series of apology letters involving Jack, Mr. Tushman, and Julian, and Jack and Auggie eventually make up and become friends again. When Jack and Auggie return to school after winter break, though, Jack realizes that Julian has turned most of the boys in their grade against them and that a "war" has begun.

The perspective then switches to Via's new boyfriend, Justin , who has just met Auggie. Justin is good for Via, because he makes her feel important and valued. Since his own parents are divorced, Justin also enjoys spending time with the unified Pullman family. Auditions for the school play at his and Via's high school arrive, and he gets cast as the male lead in Our Town , while Via's old friend Miranda gets cast as the female lead with Via as the understudy.

Auggie's perspective comes back for the first time since the beginning of the novel: the situation has gotten better at school as students grow tired of the "war" between Julian and Jack. The Pullman family gets in a fight one day when Auggie realizes that Via has been hiding her involvement in the school play from him. She does not want him to come, because then she would be known once again as the girl with the deformed brother. During the fight, though, the Pullmans' dog Daisy is discovered to be extremely sick. She must be put to sleep, a choice which devastates the family. This loss also makes Via forget about the fight, and the whole family goes to the school play to see Justin. They expect to see Miranda in the lead female role, but then get a shock: Miranda apparently fell sick right before the show, so instead Via performs the lead role, and she does an amazing job.

Miranda gets a chance to tell her story now: she has avoided Via since school started because, during the summer, she told a lot of lies at camp and pretended she had a deformed little brother in order to become popular. She secretly misses Via, though. On the opening night of the play, Miranda has no one there to see her, so after she sees the Pullman family in the audience she fakes an illness so that Via can go onstage instead. This ploy gives Via and Miranda an opportunity to patch up their relationship.

The final section of the novel switches back to Auggie. The fifth grade goes on a retreat at a nature reserve for three days: this is Auggie's first time sleeping away from home. Things go great until the second night, when the students are watching an outdoor movie. Jack and Auggie go into the woods so that Jack can pee; while there, they encounter a bunch of older kids from another school, who make fun of Auggie and try to hurt him. Luckily, three of the boys from Beecher Prep who are usually mean to Auggie -- Henry , Miles , and Amos -- come to Auggie's rescue, although one of the older kids steals Auggie's hearing aids.

This incident makes Auggie extremely popular, however. By the final stages of the novel, almost everyone has at last warmed up to him and wants to be his friend. Things start looking up: the Pullmans get a new puppy, and Auggie learns from Mr. Tushman that Julian will not come back to Beecher Prep the following year. Graduation arrives; Auggie wins a special award for courage and kindness. He realizes how far he has come since the beginning of school, and he now has a solid group of friends and feels comfortable with who he is. The novel ends with his mother whispering in his ear, calling him a "wonder."

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Wonder Questions and Answers

The Question and Answer section for Wonder is a great resource to ask questions, find answers, and discuss the novel.

What do you think auggie means by “the only reason I’m not ordinary is that no one else sees me that way”.

Augie wants to be ordinary, he feels he should be ordinary. . His face prevents others from seeing him that way. Really Augie feels that if people can look past his looks, they would find out he is just like them.

What writing assignment did Mr. Browne give the class?

Mr. Browne says that he will give the class a new precept every month. For the month of September, he tells them to consider: “If you have the choice between being right or being kind, choose kind.”

What are the facts that are more significative for you?

This question calls for your opinion... your reflection on the book. I particularly enjoyed Summer's sections, as they give us a glimpse into what it's like not to be in Auggie's situation, but to learn what it's like for the people closest to...

Study Guide for Wonder

Wonder study guide contains a biography of R.J. Palacio, literature essays, quiz questions, major themes, characters, and a full summary and analysis.

About Wonder
Wonder Video
Character List

Lesson Plan for Wonder

About the Author
Study Objectives
Common Core Standards
Introduction to Wonder
Relationship to Other Books
Bringing in Technology
Notes to the Teacher
Related Links
Wonder Bibliography

Wikipedia Entries for Wonder

Introduction

– Entertainment Analysis and Reviews

Wonder Book Review: A Heartwarming Tale of Kindness and Empathy

“Wonder” is a novel by R.J. Palacio that tells the story of a young boy named August Pullman, who was born with a facial deformity that has made him the subject of much attention and ridicule. The book explores themes of acceptance, empathy, and kindness in a way that is both heartwarming and thought-provoking. “Wonder” has become a beloved modern classic and has inspired a generation of readers to embrace differences and treat others with compassion. In this article, we’ll dive deeper into the plot, writing style, characters, themes, and overall impact of “Wonder” to understand why it has captured the hearts and minds of so many.

The book wonder Summary of the Plot:

Review of the writing style:, wonder book analysis of the characters:, discussion of themes:, overall evaluation of book wonder:.

“Wonder” is the story of August “Auggie” Pullman, a ten-year-old boy who was born with a facial deformity that has caused him to be homeschooled his entire life. When Auggie’s parents enroll him in a mainstream school, he must navigate the challenges of fitting in with his classmates and dealing with bullying and exclusion. Along the way, Auggie makes new friends, learns to cope with his condition, and teaches others about the power of acceptance and kindness. The book is divided into several sections, each narrated by a different character, providing a unique perspective on Auggie’s experiences.

Some of the key events in the book include:

Auggie’s first day of school, where he meets classmates who are both welcoming and hostile
Auggie’s friendship with Summer, who stands up for him and shows him kindness
Auggie’s struggles with bullying, including incidents where he is physically threatened
The fallout of Auggie’s classmates learning about his facial deformity
The school’s winter concert, where Auggie’s classmates perform a song in his honor
Auggie’s growth and development throughout the school year as he learns to navigate his relationships and embrace his differences

Palacio’s writing is also effective in creating a vivid and empathetic portrayal of Auggie and his experiences. The descriptions of Auggie’s facial deformity are detailed enough to convey the severity of his condition, but not so graphic as to be overwhelming or unsettling for younger readers. Additionally, the use of humor and lighthearted moments throughout the book provides a balance to the more serious themes and adds to the overall appeal of the story.

One of the strengths of “Wonder” is its memorable and relatable characters, who bring depth and nuance to the story. Some of the key characters in the book include:

August “Auggie” Pullman: The protagonist and central character of the book, Auggie is a young boy with a facial deformity that has made him the target of bullying and ridicule. Throughout the book, Auggie displays resilience, kindness, and a strong sense of self, as he learns to navigate the challenges of fitting in with his peers.
Via Pullman: Auggie’s older sister, Via is a compassionate and loyal character who supports her brother but also struggles with her own feelings of neglect and isolation. Via’s chapters in the book provide a perspective on the impact of Auggie’s condition on his family and the challenges they face as a result.
Jack Will: Auggie’s classmate and friend, Jack initially struggles to accept Auggie due to his appearance but ultimately learns the importance of empathy and kindness. Jack’s journey throughout the book is a testament to the power of growth and self-reflection.
Julian Albans: Auggie’s main antagonist, Julian is a bully who actively targets Auggie and spreads rumors about him. Julian’s actions and motivations are complex, reflecting the ways in which insecurity and fear can manifest as cruelty and exclusion.

At its core, “Wonder” is a story about empathy, kindness, and the power of acceptance. Some of the key themes and messages in the book include:

Acceptance: “Wonder” explores the importance of accepting others, regardless of their appearance or differences. The book emphasizes the value of empathy and the ways in which we can all work to make the world a kinder and more inclusive place.
Bullying: Through Auggie’s experiences with bullying and exclusion, “Wonder” sheds light on the harmful effects of cruelty and the lasting impact it can have on individuals and communities. The book advocates for speaking up against bullying and standing up for those who are vulnerable.
Family and Relationships: “Wonder” also delves into the complex dynamics of family and relationships, particularly in the context of disability and chronic illness. The book portrays the ways in which love, support, and understanding can help individuals and families navigate difficult circumstances and emerge stronger on the other side.

“Wonder” is a heartwarming and thought-provoking book that offers a powerful message of empathy and kindness. While the book is primarily aimed at younger readers, it has resonated with audiences of all ages, and its themes and messages are relevant and valuable for everyone.

Some of the book’s strengths include:

Engaging and memorable characters: Palacio’s characters are well-drawn and memorable, each with their own distinct voice and perspective. Readers will find themselves invested in the characters’ journeys and rooting for their growth and development.
Nuanced exploration of themes: “Wonder” tackles complex and important themes with nuance and depth, offering a thought-provoking exploration of issues such as acceptance, bullying, and family relationships.
Inspiring and uplifting message: Ultimately, “Wonder” is a book about the power of kindness and empathy to overcome adversity and make the world a better place. Its inspiring and uplifting message is both timely and timeless.

“Wonder” is a beautifully written and deeply affecting book that offers a powerful message of empathy and acceptance. By exploring the experiences of Auggie and those around him, the book encourages readers to see beyond appearances and embrace our differences. Its themes and messages are both timely and timeless, and its impact on readers of all ages is undeniable.

Through its engaging characters, nuanced exploration of themes, and inspiring message, “Wonder” has earned its place as a modern classic. While there are some weaknesses to the book, its strengths far outweigh any criticisms. “Wonder” is a book that everyone should read, regardless of age or background, and its message of kindness and compassion is one that we can all strive to embody in our daily lives.

In the end, “Wonder” reminds us of the importance of empathy and the power of small acts of kindness. It is a book that encourages us to see the good in others and to work towards a more inclusive and accepting world. Whether you are a young reader or an adult, “Wonder” is a book that will touch your heart and inspire you to be a better person.

Hi, I’m William Jones, the administrator of the exciting website explainedthis.com, which offers movie, music, and book reviews. With a deep passion for entertainment, I created this platform to provide a trusted source of information for fellow enthusiasts who want to stay up-to-date on the latest releases and trends.

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A2 graded reading

Wonder: book review (A2)

Wonder is a book about a boy called Auggie who feels ordinary but looks very different.

Instructions

Do the preparation exercise first and then read the article. If you find it too easy, try the next level. After reading, do the exercises to check your understanding.

Preparation

What’s wonder about.

Wonder is the story of a ten-year-old boy who lives with his parents and sister in New York. August, or Auggie, is an ordinary boy in many ways. He rides a bike and likes playing with his Xbox. But Auggie has deformities of the face and looks very different from other children. At the start of the book, he tells us 'My name is August. I won’t describe what I look like. Whatever you’re thinking, it’s probably worse.' In the street, people look at Auggie and his appearance shocks them.

Auggie has never been to school because he has spent a lot of time in hospital. His mother teaches him at home, but now he’s ten, she thinks he should go to school. At first, Auggie doesn’t want to go. He worries that other students will look at him and say horrible things. But then he visits a school with his mum, he likes the headteacher and decides to go. Auggie’s first year at school has good times and bad times. Auggie makes some good friends but other children are horrible to him. At the end of the year, Auggie goes on a school trip and a frightening event there changes things completely.

Is it a good book?

Wonder is an excellent book. It tells an inspiring story that makes you feel many different emotions. Once I started reading it, I didn’t want to stop. It is easy to like Auggie. He has a good sense of humour, so the book has a good mix of funny and sad moments. But the book isn’t just about Auggie. We learn what life is like for his sister, and Jack, who is Auggie’s friend. Wonder is a book about a ten-year old boy, but it’s popular with people of all ages. Pre-teens, teenagers and adults all love Wonder .

A bestseller

Wonder is RJ Palacio’s first book. On her website, she explains that she had the idea for Wonder after seeing a girl with deformities on the street one day. Many schools are using the book to start discussions about bullying, friendship and being different. The book is very popular and has won prizes. There will be a film of Wonder , and many people, including me, are looking forward to seeing what RJ Palacio writes next.

Robin Newton

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Need a break from politics? Marvel at the 'Vanishing Treasures' of the natural world

Maureen Corrigan

If, you, too, have been intensely concentrating on the presidential election, you may be ready for a shift of focus. Vanishing Treasures , an extraordinary book by Katherine Rundell (originally published under the title The Golden Mole in the UK) lifts readers out of the here and now and invites us to train our eyes on wider horizons.

Rundell is a publishing phenom. Her 2013 middle-grade children’s book Rooftoppers drew inspiration from her own adventures as an undergraduate at Oxford, where she climbed brick walls and scaled drainpipes to take in the views of that "city of dreaming spires" from on high. More recently, Rundell has written Super-Infinite , an acclaimed biography of the metaphysical poet John Donne, as well as a bestselling fantasy novel, called Impossible Creatures .

In short, Rundell is something of a Renaissance woman who writes with the elegance and erudition that distinguished that era. Vanishing Treasures is a bestiary, a collection of creatures, both odd and mundane — all of whom are more astonishing than you might expect; all of whom, as Rundell tells us are "endangered or [contain] a subspecies that is endangered — because there is almost no creature on the planet, now, for which that is not the case."

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Rundell begins her book with an epigraph from an author whose reputation is itself approaching extinction: the British essayist and mystery writer, G.K. Chesterton: "The world will never starve for want of wonders; but only for want of wonder."

What follows are 23 very short essays on creatures ranging from the wombat to the spider; the raccoon to the tuna. For anyone whose capacity for wonder could use a jumpstart, Rundell's essays are essential reading. Listen, for instance, to these sentences from the opening paragraph of her essay on the swift — a common creature so named because it's the fastest bird in flight:

Can't make it to the total eclipse? 5 fun ways to bring wonder and awe into your life

The swift is sky-suited like no other bird. Weighing less than a hen's egg, with wings like a scythe and a tail like a fork, it eats and sleeps on the wing. ... [Swifts] mate in brief mid-sky collisions, the only birds to do so, and to wash they hunt down clouds and fly through gentle rain, slowly, wings outstretched.

As you can hear, Rundell’s essays are no mere Wikipedia entries about the natural world; rather, they’re deeply-felt, lyrical, often witty, and occasionally grisly evocations of the living marvels she’s surveying. Her essay on "The Hermit Crab," for instance, begins with a jolt: "It was, perhaps, a hermit crab that ate Amelia Earhart."

'The Last Animal' is a bright-eyed meditation on what animates us

Rundell goes on to explain: It seems that the uninhabited island in the Western Pacific where Earhart’s plane may have gone down and where 13 (but, only 13) human bones were discovered that matched Earhart’s size is to this day also "home to a colony of coconut hermit crabs: the world's largest land crab. ... The oldest [crabs] live to more than a hundred, and grow to be up to 40 inches across: too large to fit in a bathtub, exactly the right size for a nightmare."

The interconnectedness, both savage and beautiful, of the animal and human world is the message thrumming through these essays. Earhart's possible fate notwithstanding, it's, of course, nonhuman creatures who suffer most from their contact with us. "The greatest lie that humans ever told is that the Earth is ours, and at our disposal. ... We must cease from telling that lie because the world is so rare, and so wildly fine."

A Greenland shark, one of the longest-living animals on Earth, was caught near Belize

Vanishing Treasures makes readers see, really see , some of the miraculous creatures we still share this fragile world with. Like any wise environmentalist, Rundell also leavens terror with possibility. I leave you, then, with Rundell's tribute to the Greenland shark, "the planet's oldest vertebrate"; an animal who can live over 500 years. Rundell says:

... I find the very idea of them hopeful. They will see us pass through whichever spinning chaos we may currently be living through, ... and they will live through the currently unimagined things that will come after that: the transformations, revelations, the possible liberations. That is their beauty and it's breathtaking: they go on. These slow, odorous, half-blind creatures are perhaps the closest thing to eternal this planet has to offer.

endangered animals

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Book Review

Reviewed by Carol Thompson for Readers' Favorite

Stjarna’s Stars by Patricia Squire weaves a heartfelt tale of young Stjarna, a spirited Icelandic girl whose life takes a dramatic turn after a volcanic eruption forces her family to emigrate to Canada. Through Stjarna’s eyes, readers experience the resilience required for such a journey, marked by long voyages, friendships with tiny, mystical elves, and countless moments of wonder. Set against the backdrop of the historical challenges Icelandic immigrants face, Squire captures the beauty of courage and family bonds. Stjarna’s character is endearing, blending innocence with determination. Her connection with her “wishing stars” and elfin friends adds a magical layer, enriching the narrative with warmth and imaginative touches. Each scene, from the quiet farewells in Iceland to the crowded steamboats and daunting landscapes of Canada, is painted with vivid details, transporting readers into Stjarna’s world of hopes, fears, and dreams. Patricia Squire writes a convincing narrative that will inspire young readers to do the right thing. Unsurprisingly, she is a retired elementary school teacher, so the book is perfect for classroom reading and further reflection. Squire provides a helpful pronunciation guide, another clue to her time in the classroom. The book is illustrated in color and black and white, giving it a literary classic look. Stjarna’s Stars is so much more than historical fiction; it’s an inspiring story of childhood resilience and the power of family and friendship. Squire’s storytelling is delightful for all ages, especially those interested in immigrant tales, folklore, volcanos, and what life is like living close to danger.

Nino Lobiladze

Stjarna's Stars by Patricia Squire is an adventure fairy tale for children from nine years and up. Little Stjarna wakes up in the middle of the night. A volcanic eruption is underway, and she is terrified! The next day, Stjarna cannot recognize the once-familiar landscape. Stjarna's parents, Olaf and Helga, want to move from Iceland because their land is not good for farming anymore. Olaf, Helga, Stjarna, and her older sister, Sofie, embark on a long journey to Canada's New Iceland, where they will get free land for their new farm. Stjarna wants her beloved grandmother to join them. But she refuses and gives the girl a wooden box with ten beautiful lace stars to make wishes on them. Stjarna wishes to find new friends during their exhausting trip in a steamship's steerage. Suddenly, she hears two troubled elves talking! They are scared and hungry on a big ship in the Atlantic Ocean. Stjarna looks after the elves and hopes for new adventures. What awaits Stjarna and her family in New Iceland? Patricia Squire's Stjarna's Stars is a beautifully illustrated and informative coming-of-age story. The author masterfully interweaves realistic historical fiction with Icelandic lore, creating a gripping read for the whole family. I do not doubt that adult readers will enjoy it as much as I did. From this educational book, children will learn many interesting facts about life on a farm and what chores young family members used to do in the second half of the nineteenth century. Squire explains in detail what a sod house is and how to build it. The author doesn't hide from her young readers the hardships of the multi-stage trip from Iceland to Canada. But a touch of magic and a kind heart can turn even the most challenging conditions into a thrilling adventure. This uplifting tale inspires families to work together and help their neighbors rebuild. Stjarna sets a great example for children. She is only nine but wants to be helpful and agrees to perform even the most unpleasant tasks. Stjarna's story has a wonderful twist at the end and a moral in its heart.

Courtnee Turner Hoyle

In Stjarna's Stars, a children's story by Patricia Squire, in 1875, in a little town in Iceland, Stjarna Olafsdottir witnessed a volcanic eruption that changed her life. Her parents decided to move to New Iceland in Canada, taking her and her sixteen-year-old sister, Sophie, with them. Before the family leaves, Amma, her grandmother, gives Stjarna a box of homemade white lace stars to take with her on the journey to Canada. She hopes Stjarna will remember the good times they shared and make wishes on the stars. During her long journey, Stjarna encounters two elves, Frida and Snorri, who are also traveling to Canada. She hides the elves in the box of stars Amma gave to her, and they go with her to New Iceland. Patricia Squire's interesting story teaches readers about the culture, customs, and traditions of the Icelandic people. Squire discusses how the families had to work together to survive and details a few practices, like making dyes for fabrics from flowers. The author outlines the harsh traveling conditions from using a bucket as a family bathroom to coexisting in a small space on a boat with hundreds of people. The characters grow as they make their journey, with Sophie changing her perspective and Stjarna sacrificing something dear to her to remedy a mistake. Squire has thought of everything to make the book a collectible title, from a pronunciation guide to detailed pictures. Readers who enjoy well-researched stories with adventure and a touch of folklore will love Stjarna's Stars.

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IMAGES

Wonder by R.J. Palacio [BOOK REVIEW]
Wonder [Book Review]
Wonder by R.J. Palacio Book Review Comprehension Rating Opinion
Wonder Book Review
Wonder, by R.J. Palacio
Wonder by R.J.Palacio: A book that all parents and children must read

COMMENTS

Wonder Review: A Message to Choose Kindness
Book Title: Wonder Book Description: 'Wonder' by R. J. Palacio follows the story of August Pullman, a ten-year-old boy with facial disfigurement, as he faces the challenges of attending a regular school for the first time. Through August's and other characters' experiences, the novel explores themes of empathy, acceptance, and how kindness has the power to transform people and society, and ...
Wonder [Book Review]
Summary: Young Sadie Blue lives in the North Carolina mountain town of Baines Creek and suffers abuse at the hands of her drunken husband, Roy Tupkin. When a new teacher comes to town, Sadie begins to think of finding her voice and of a life that doesn't include Roy. Amazon Rating: 4.5 Stars. My Thoughts:
'Wonder,' by R. J. Palacio
100 Best Books of the 21st Century: As voted on by 503 novelists, nonfiction writers, poets, critics and other book lovers — with a little help from the staff of The New York Times Book Review.
WONDER
Google Rating. A successful juvenile by the beloved New Yorker writer portrays a farm episode with an imaginative twist that makes a poignant, humorous story of a pig, a spider and a little girl. Young Fern Arable pleads for the life of runt piglet Wilbur and gets her father to sell him to a neighbor, Mr. Zuckerman.
A review of Wonder By R. J. Palacio
Wonder. By R. J. Palacio. Penguin Books Ltd. 3 Sept 2018, Hardcover, 704 pg, ISBN-13: 978-0241368381. There is a saying that there are two sides to every story. Wonder by R. J. Palacio shows that there are actually many sides to a story. Wonder tells a story from the perspective of six different characters. I would highly recommend this book ...
Wonder Book Review
Our review: Parents say (61 ): Kids say (275 ): Auggie himself is a very convincing and poignant character -- definitely not just a device -- and his story is extremely moving and uplifting. Author R.J. Palacio writes Wonder in multiple voices, including Auggie's, some of his friends', and his sister's.
Wonder by R. J. Palacio: Book Review By Jess Lahey and Her Son, Ben
TEEN REVIEW | Ben Lahey. August Pullman, the main character of Wonder by R. J. Palacio, is only 10 years old, but his story engages readers of any age. August was born with a severe facial deformity that leaves him unable to attend school, until the fifth grade, when his family decides it's time for him to try to give up homeschooling.. Wonder tells the story of August's first year of ...
Summary of Wonder by R. J. Palacio
R. J. Palacio's " Wonder" tells the story of August 'Auggie' Pullman, a boy with a craniofacial deformity that kept him from school, getting to attend school for the first time. It deals with issues such as kindness, empathy, self-acceptance, and discrimination against people with disabilities. " Wonder " is told from the first ...
Summary and Reviews of Wonder by R.J. Palacio
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. Ages 8+.
Wonder (Palacio novel)
This is an accepted version of this page This is the latest accepted revision, reviewed on 15 October 2024. There is 1 pending revision awaiting review. R. J. Palacio novel Wonder Front cover, illustrated by Tad Carpenter Author R. J. Palacio Cover artist Tad Carpenter Subject Prejudice Self-acceptance Middle school Friendship Bullying Genre Children's novel Publisher Alfred A. Knopf ...
Wonder, by R.J. Palacio
It is an essential aspect of being human. In the captivating, award-winning New York Times bestselling novel Wonder by R.J. Palacio, the theme of exhibiting kindness is explored in an inspiring way. The story revolves around a 10-year-old boy named August Pullman living with rare facial deformities. Auggie, as he is affectionately called ...
6 Reasons Why You Should Read Wonder by R.J. Palacio
2. Along with kindness, the book is rich with other themes such as anti-bullying and having compassion, acceptance, and empathy for others. Students will be able to relate to these themes and how Auggie desires to want to fit in, not stand out. 3. With so much to discuss, the book makes for a memorable read aloud, as a literature circle ...
Wonder Themes and Analysis
Friendship. The story of " Wonder " explores the dynamics and nature of friendship. Friends fight, misunderstand, offend, and betray. They also apologize, forgive, defend, and are gracious to each other. Jack Will jeopardizes his friendship with August by claiming to be his friend because Principal Tushman asks.
Wonder
Wonder is a heart-warming book by R.J. Palacio. It shares the story of how a young boy called August Pullman, goes to school for the first time. August was born with a facial disorder, causing him to have over 30 different operations on his face. This problem sadly brings him to be reacted to and judged in various ways.
Review: Wonder by R.J. Palacio
Before. I'm writing this preamble before I re-read the book I'm about to review. As much as this is a review of R.J. Palacio's 2012 book Wonder by a Disfigured person (my chosen ID and capitalisation) , it won't - and can't - be reflective only of my proximity to the story. It must also reflect that I've changed, and that my view of myself and the world around me has changed ...
Wonder Summary
Wonder Summary. August or "Auggie" Pullman, a ten-year-old boy living in New York City, was born with a facial deformity that has made it difficult for him to make friends. He lives with his parents, his older sister Via, and his dog Daisy. He has been homeschooled up until the fifth grade, but his parents have decided that it is time for him ...
Wonder book summary: Characters, Review, Themes, Symbolism
Books. Author William Jones Reading 8 min Views 5.1k. Published by 08.05.2023. "Wonder" is a novel by R.J. Palacio that tells the story of a young boy named August Pullman, who was born with a facial deformity that has made him the subject of much attention and ridicule. The book explores themes of acceptance, empathy, and kindness in a way ...
Wonder: book review (B1)
Wonder is an excellent book that tells a moving and inspiring story. It's fast-moving and gripping too. I found myself reading it on the bus even if I only had time to read a couple of pages. It appeals to all age groups and is very popular with teenagers and adults. Auggie is a very likeable central character.
Wonder: book review (A2)
A bestseller. Wonder is RJ Palacio's first book. On her website, she explains that she had the idea for Wonder after seeing a girl with deformities on the street one day. Many schools are using the book to start discussions about bullying, friendship and being different. The book is very popular and has won prizes.
'Vanishing Treasures' review: Katherine Rundell captures the wonder of
With 23 short essays on creatures ranging from the wombat to the spider, Katherine Rundell's new book is essential reading for anyone whose wonder could use a jumpstart.
BOOK REVIEW
Nothing feeds our sense of wonder quite like stories of exploration. Whether they are cocksure astronauts or stoic arctic navigators, the derring-do of explorers make for some of the best
The Family History Book: How to find and research your ancestors in
The Family History Book takes you through the first steps of researching and building a family tree, finding records of births, deaths and marriages, looking up newspaper archives and probate records, researching immigration and shipping, seeking out convicts, looking up military files, as well as discovering your story through DNA testing.
Absolute DC Universe: Stale iconic characters get a fresh look in comic
This Wonder Woman feels like she's stepped out of a darker, mythological world—think of the Hellboy comics,. Themyscira is given a totally new fascinating treatment.
Make Christianity Spooky Again
Rod Dreher's new book, "Living in Wonder," is a sprawling, vulnerable call to enchantment in a disenchanted world.
Book review of Stjarna's Stars
Stjarna's Stars by Patricia Squire weaves a heartfelt tale of young Stjarna, a spirited Icelandic girl whose life takes a dramatic turn after a volcanic eruption forces her family to emigrate to Canada. Through Stjarna's eyes, readers experience the resilience required for such a journey, marked by long voyages, friendships with tiny, mystical elves, and countless moments of wonder. Set ...
Majority of Jewish voters open to partial arms embargo on Israel
One major shift was Trump's support among the Orthodox, which Gerstein said make up about 9% of the Jewish electorate: 86% voted for him this year, the poll found, up from 59% in 2020.
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