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Wonder by RJ Palacio – review

‘You’ll laugh, you’ll cry and when you turn the last page over, you’ll want to read it again!’

This is a book I would happily read again and again and again. I loved it; it’s definitely up there with my favourite books of all time. Where to begin…?

This moving, gripping, fast-paced, sad, happy, hilarious (I could go on for hours) book follows the story of August Pullman, an average ten year old boy with a birth defect. Auggie has never been to a real school before until he decides to join fifth grade, the first year of middle school.

Through this exhilarating story, you learn Auggie’s triumphs, downs and much more of his tough journey through middle school, trying to make it out of fifth grade alive! You’ll laugh, you’ll cry and when you turn the last page over, you’ll want to read it again!

This book is so moving and sad, and I think one of the reasons it has such a magical effect on the reader is because it is told from a range of characters. First Auggie, then Via his sister, then Jack and many more people. This was the first book I have ever cried during.

Even if you don’t normally cry in books, I guarantee you will in this one! This will leave you wanting more…

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Reading Ladies

Wonder [book review].

October 27, 2017

***This post contains Amazon affiliate links.

Heart, Heroes, and Humor…

You were probably an ordinary kid.

Did you ever experience a terrifying first day in a new school?

Consider Auggie. He feels ordinary inside but no one else sees him as ordinary. As he expresses:

“Kids don’t scream and run away if you’re ordinary….they don’t stare.”

This is the advice 10-year-old August Pullman receives from his parents on the first day of school:

“There are always going to be jerks in the world, Auggie,” she said, looking at me. “But I really believe, and Daddy really believes, that there are more good people on this earth than bad people, and the good people watch out for each other and take care of each other.”

Because the movie Wonde r releases in theaters on November 17, 2017, it seems timely to read or reread and review.

Movie Trailer here.

Wonder by R. J. Palacio

Genre/categories: Middle grade through adult contemporary fiction,  growing up, difficult discussions, family life, friendship, compassion, character traits

On the inside, ten-year-old August Pullman feels very ordinary. But as he says, ordinary kids don’t make other kids run away screaming and they don’t get stared at wherever they go. Auggie was born with a rare genetic abnormality that affected the formation of his face. Because of extensive surgeries and an attempt to protect him from cruelties of the outside world, Auggie’s parents have homeschooled him. The reader meets 5th grade Auggie as he’s being enrolled in a traditional school for the first time. Will he be accepted? Will he find friends? Will he find a hostile or friendly environment? How will adults in his life support him? The story is told from six perspectives (August, Via–his older sister, Summer–a friendly caring peer, Jack–a student leader who struggles in his role as a friend, Miranda–his sister’s best friend and a close family friend, and Justin–Miranda’s boyfriend) plus a bonus chapter from Julian’s point of view (Auggie’s nemesis).

Amazon (October) Rating: (an amazing) 4.9 Stars

My Thoughts:

If you plan to see the movie, don’t miss out on reading the book first!  It’s an easy, engaging, thoughtful, inspirational, and meaningful read with valuable discussion possibilities for the entire family. Wonder on DVD .

As we venture to school with Auggie, we feel his daily apprehension and celebrate his courage and determination. Even though he thinks of himself on the inside as an ordinary kid, we know he doesn’t look ordinary and his severe facial abnormality could cause him to be the object of unkind actions by his peers and to experience bullying.

Throughout Wonder , the narrative changes perspectives with each chapter. This helps us get a 360 degree understanding of Auggie’s world and also allows us to see the nice circle of people who care for him and support him. In addition, it allows the reader to understand that everyone battles something. Because this is written for a children’s audience, it does have a happy ending where ‘good” people are rewarded and the “bad” get their punishment. I like that there is an epilogue (extra chapter) in the current version of the book that follows Auggie’s nemesis Julian and we see how Julian changes and grows in empathy and compassion

Wonder takes a dramatic turn when Auggie overhears his friend Jack’s derogatory remarks about him; he is discouraged and devastated, and everything changes as he has to fight to rebuild what he’s lost. Through these authentic middle-grade voices, we learn about true friendship, risk, and the importance of kindness.

I especially admire Auggies’s English teacher who each month presents the idea of precepts to live by and encourages students to write their own…an example of a precept he presents is “When given the choice between being right or kind, choose kind.” In an attempt to establish the habit of writing precepts as a lifelong practice, he encourages students to email their precepts to him in the years after graduation. Auggie’s 5th-grade precept is “Everyone in the world should get a standing ovation once in their lives because we all overcometh the world.”

The following is a sampling of the types of quotes you will find from the adults in the story:

“Kinder than necessary,” he repeated. “What a marvelous line, isn’t it? Kinder than is necessary. Because it’s not enough to be kind. One should be kinder than needed. Why I love that line, that concept is that it reminds me that we carry with us, as human beings, not just the capacity to be kind, but the very choice of kindness. And what does that mean? How is that measured? You can’t use a yardstick. It’s like I was saying just before: it’s not like measuring how much you’ve grown in a year. It’s not exactly quantifiable, is it? How do we know we’ve been kind? What is being kind, anyway?” “….If every single person in this room made it a rule that wherever you are, whenever you can, you will try to act a little kinder than is necessary–the world really would be a better place. And if you do this, if you act just a little kinder than is necessary, someone else, somewhere, someday, may recognize in you, in every single one of you, the face of God.” “It’s not just the nature of kindness, but the nature of one’s kindness. The power of one’s friendship. The test of one’s character. The strength of one’s courage–” 

Don’t miss out on this inspirational story filled with heart, heroes, and humor and which inspired the Kindness Movement . I expect that Wonder will become a beloved classic in upper-grade classrooms and in family libraries. Highly recommended for every reader who believes in the power of teaching through a story and for every family who is in the process of building empathy, compassion, and kindness. Wonder would make a great parent/child buddy read. I believe good literature and timeless themes can be enjoyed by all ages!

“Courage. Kindness. Friendship. Character. These are the qualities that define us as human beings, propel us, on occasion, to greatness.”

My rating: 4.5 stars (rounded to 5)

Wonder Information Here.

There is an additional book, Auggie & Me . It’s not a sequel, rather a companion read and an extension of Auggie’s world with three additional points of view.

More Information about Auggie & Me Here.

The Kindness Movement and Sign the Pledge Here.

The author interviews kids about kindness here.

Wonder Movie Trailer here.

Wonder on DVD .

Meet the Author, R. J. Palacio

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 rjpalacio.com or on Twitter at @RJPalacio.

I’m curious if you’ve read Wonder !

Do you have children that have read it? I’d love to hear your (or their) reflection.

Do you plan to see the movie ?

How do you feel about teaching character traits such as empathy and kindness through literature?

What are you reading this week?

Happy Reading Bookworms!

“Ah, how good it is to be among people who are reading.” ~Rainer Maria Rilke

“I love the world of words, where life and literature connect.” ~Denise J Hughes

“Reading good books ruins you for enjoying bad ones.” ~Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society

“I read because books are a form of transportation, of teaching, and of connection! Books take us to places we’ve never been, they teach us about our world, and they help us to understand human experience.” ~Madeleine Riley, Top Shelf Text

In my last post, I indicated that I would read and review If the Creek Don’t Rise . I did read it; however, I decided that Wonder would be the primary focus of my review this week so that I can encourage you to read it before the movie releases. Here’s my brief review of If the Creek Don’t Rise .

 If The Creek Don’t Rise by Leah Weiss

Genre/categories: Historical Fiction, Small Town, Rural, Appalachia, Hillbilly Culture

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

Harsh and hard realities of life in this remote Appalachian community make If the Creek Don’t Rise a gritty and sobering read. Young Sadie Blue is pregnant, abused, mistreated, and struggling to find her voice. Only a few chapters are from Sadie’s POV. The story is told from multiple viewpoints giving readers a good perspective of her life and the hillbilly community. Some characters offer hope and healing while others are despicable. Sadie does find her voice in a way that surprised me (but maybe it shouldn’t have given her situation and the hillbilly culture). As a teacher, I hoped to learn more about the new teacher’s contribution to the youth of the community….I’m always looking for hope and redemption in a story….but after the teacher’s strong introduction, she fades into the background of the story. This is also disappointing because she is important to Sadie. Overall, I enjoyed the read and the excellent writing; however, it’s not a read that everyone would enjoy. It’s gritty and a bit dark but certainly an impressive debut novel. I would encourage you to read additional reviews.

My Rating: 4 Stars

If the Creek Don’t Rise Information Here.

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17 comments.

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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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By R. J. Palacio

This novel is a heartwarming tale of kindess and empathy and a boy with a facial deformity making friends and growing to self-acceptance.

About the Book

Article written by Ebuka Igbokwe

Bachelor's degree from Nnamdi Azikiwe University.

It is bad enough that August Pullman is born with a disfiguring disease that deforms his face, makes hearing difficult, and has him needing twenty-seven surgeries before the age of ten to give him a chance at life. It is undoubtedly worse to have him begin school and face discrimination at the hands of his classmates, Julian in particular. He has his family and friends, like Summer and Jack Will, to thank for their care and support.

R. J. Palacio , the author of ‘ Wonder ,’ was inspired to write this novel from experience in her life. She stopped at an ice cream stand on a trip to see an out-of-town friend with her two sons. Sitting with her mother, there was a girl with a facial deformity. Her younger son began to cry. Palacio hurried her children away. Reflecting on the incident, she believed she could have handled it better. It also made her wonder what sort of life the little girl faced if this reaction was typical.

Before writing ‘ Wonder ’, Palacio was a book cover illustrator and designer. She was born to Columbian immigrant parents in New York City on July 13, 1963. She studied at the High School of Art and Design in Manhattan and the Parsons School of Design. The story of ‘Wonder’ , published in 2012, was her debut novel and has sold over 16 million copies. It was adapted into a movie starring Julia Roberts and Owen Wilson in 2017. The book’s success led to the creation of the Choose Kind movement, encouraging acts of kindness and inclusivity.

Table of Contents

• 1 Revisiting Wonder
• 4 Themes and Symbolism
• 5 Characterization
• 7 Writing Style

Revisiting Wonder

August Pullman has Treacher-Collins Syndrome , a congenital craniofacial disease that leaves him deformed, and frequent hospitalization keeps him out of school. But he is finally ready to begin school in the fifth grade. He has received shocked stares and discrimination based on his looks, but this happens differently in school. However, he makes a few friends, like Summer Dawson and Jack Wills, and he has the understanding, empathy, and support of family and perseveres. School bully Julian Albans is particularly malicious, calling him names and instigating classmates to avoid him and treat him as a pariah. Soon enough, however, more of his classmates recognized him for the bright, funny, and brave boy he was.

The central premise of ‘ Wonder ’ is emotionally charged and unique. The story follows August Pullman, a young boy with facial deformities, as he navigates the challenges of attending public school for the first time. This premise immediately captures readers’ attention and sets the stage for a narrative exploring acceptance and empathy themes.

Some aspects of the plot are predictable, especially in the general trajectory of a heartwarming tale of the ugly duckling. The novel follows a cliche structure of rejection and acceptance by one’s social group or community.

The resolution of conflicts in the story is, at times, presented in a somewhat idealized manner: Miranda becomes friends again with Via without them treating the underlying issue of their friendship, and August becomes an overnight darling of the school. Real-life situations might not always be resolved as neatly, and the optimistic outcomes are too romantic.

The novel is primarily set in Beecher Prep, a middle school, providing the perfect background for the challenges faced by the preteen protagonist, August Pullman, as he enters public school for the first time.

The school setting is relatable for its target audience of young readers, but it is familiar to older readers, who can connect with its dynamics and experience. Palacio captures the nuances of a middle school environment, including student interactions, friendships, and the challenges of fitting in. This realism enhances how real the story feels.

Themes and Symbolism

Palacio’s treatment of themes like kindness, social acceptance of those living with disabilities, and bullying in schools in ‘ Wonder ’ show a keen feeling for contemporary social issues. Interestingly, she handles the issues with faith in our humanity as the best address for them, rather than advocating for policy intervention by the government or school disciplinary bodies. Being kind is Palacio’s simple solution; she trusts it will make a significant impact.

However, the treatment of the themes of ‘ Wonder ’ can be a bit on the nose and lack subtlety. The message is driven with the force of a crusader, and the characters are only vehicles for delivering a piece of moral instruction.

The book can also be criticized for romanticizing the fact of living with disabilities to tell an inspirational tale.

Characterization

‘ Wonder ’ excels in presenting characters from diverse backgrounds. The range of characters , each with their personalities and perspectives, enriches the storytelling and allows readers to gain insights into different lives and experiences. The book also gives its characters a certain degree of development. August grows from a sheltered and delicate boy to a brave child with a healthy dose of self-acceptance, Via learns she does not have to abandon her identity as August’s sister to be fully Olivia Pullman, and Jack learns not to fear the opinion of others to stand for his beliefs and friends. Readers witnessing these significant transformations enjoy the overall impact of the story.

R. J. Palacio masterfully uses dialogue, revealing much about her characters through what they say and how they say it. Julian comes across as mean even when he speaks harmlessly, and Via is direct with her speech. Her character’s dialogue is easy to follow, making reading ‘ Wonder ’ an effortless and enjoyable experience. However, the talk can be long, ponderous, and tedious, especially when a character such as Principal Tushman gets on his soapbox.

• Writing Style

The novel employs a multi-narrative structure, offering perspectives from various characters. This technique enriches the storytelling by providing insights into different experiences and emotions, allowing readers to connect with multiple characters beyond the protagonist. Palacio uses a conversational style and first-person narrative to create a closeness between the characters and the reader. She also tells the story from August’s point of view with an upbeat mood and humor, which lightens the darker and heavier parts of the story, adding to the reading appeal.

Wonder: 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 leaves readers with the profound message of the importance of seeing people beyond their pyhysical appearances.

Book Author: R. J. Palacio

Book Edition: First Export Edition

Book Format: Paperback

Publisher - Organization: Alfred A Knopf

Date published: July 1, 2014

Illustrator: Tad Carpenter

ISBN: 9780553509977

Number Of Pages: 315

• Lasting Effect on Reader

Wonder Review

‘ Wonder ‘ by R. J. Palacio is didactic but relatable, and tells about disability in a warm and inviting tone, easy prose and with personable characters. This makes for a very pleasant read for children.

• Light and easy read
• Emotionally stimulating
• Multi-perspective storytelling
• Romanticizes disability
• Too neatly resolved conflicts

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.

Cite This Page

Igbokwe, Ebuka " Wonder Review ⭐️ " Book Analysis , https://bookanalysis.com/r-j-palacio/wonder/review/ . Accessed 9 April 2024.

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Home / Book reviews / Wonder

By R. J. Palacio

825 reviews

Born with a severe facial difference, Auggie has been home-schooled by his parents his whole life.

Now, for the first time, he’s being sent to a real school – and he’s dreading it. All he wants is to be accepted – but can he convince his new classmates that he’s just like them, underneath it all?

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Resources for this book

• Wonder - library activity pack including 'Ways to be 'WONDERful' checklist competition
• November 2019 Children's and young people booklist - Anti-Bullying

Wonder was an absolute gem for my Year 5 class, securing a well-deserved 5/5 stars. Suitable for ages 10 and above, this heartwarming story touched the hearts of the class with its powerful message of acceptance and kindness. Through the eyes of protagonist August Pullman, readers are taken on a journey of self-discovery and compassion. The authentic characters and emotive storytelling sparked important conversations about empathy and inclusion. "Wonder" is not just a book; it's a reminder of the beauty of humanity and the importance of embracing our differences. Truly a must-read for all ages.

This book is very interesting and I really like it because Auggie is the most heroic character I have met. I like to see how he goes from being shy to becoming confident and making new friends. The moral of the story is always stick up for yourself and be proud of who you are. I would definitely recommend this book to anyone and even the movie.

My fav book

Remarkably wonderful.

My favourite character was Summer because from the beginning she stood by Auggie and it’s not like she was lonely too, this book perfectly symbolises how kids who are different in some way are treated and at the end of the tunnel there is always light.

I like this book so much. I like that August goes to school and that he makes friends and his confidence gets more and more. I like that he likes space because I like space too.

I loved this book so much! My favourite character as Summer, Auggie's girl best friend, who stood up to her friends and befriended Auggie. This book is a real life lesson, teaching you to not judge a book by its cover. I recommend this to everyone, really!

A life lesson

amazing story one of my fav books f all times definately enjoyed the end gets a little confusing throuh the middle but i would give it a five star and recommened it to those who love r.j.palacio's books

Interesting book.

The person I liked best was Summer because she didn't care about Autumn's appearance or anything. She was very kind to him and stood up to him when Julian was rude to him. It was very interesting how Autumn found real friends that didn't judge him. Lastly, I would recommend this amazing book to someone.

The book is inparational it shows that everyone is different so we should respect it and don't let anyone tell you what to do

Easy to read with age appropriate vocabulary. Modern text that children can relate to. Develops sympathy. Would recommend to read to children 8+

Enjoyed how it’s written in first person and you can really see the perspective. I found Auggie the most likely and interesting. You can feel all of the emotions and worries through the author’s choice of vocabulary.

This a fantastic book which really makes you think about how we treat those who are different. I like the fact that it is from different points of view throughout the story. Augie is an inspiring character. I would definitely recommend this book- even if you have seen the film.

A thoughtful story that entices the reader with eventful character journeys told from different perspectives, challenging preconceived notions and encouraging the reader to join the protagonists on their journeys.

A beautiful story. I personally connected with Via, but loved how compelling the intertwined perspectives were.

Loved it! One of my favourite books i’ve read Extremely emotive, such a powerful and engaging read

I love this book. I like Auggie the best.

I would recommend this book to everybody.

I loved this book as it was really interesting and enjoyable to read. I thought this book used great words to give the reader the emotions of August. I would recommend this book for people the age of 9 - 15.

I enjoy reading this book. This book's main character is called August, and he is my favourite. It teaches kids things, and that is why I recommend this book.

It was flattering. It was a bit sad. I enjoyed it because it reminded me of my life.

Wonder is about a boy who has a facial difference he has a friend called Jack Will and a dog called daisy. I would recommend this book

Everyone should read this book and remember to be kind

I enjoyed this book as it shows that it doesn’t matter if you look different, everyone should be treated the same. I would recommend this book to my friends.

I've read parts of this with children at school but never the whole book from beginning to end. I am so glad I chose to read it properly. You get to know the characters so early on and feel completely invested in Auggie's story from the 1st chapter. It's such an inspiring story and I thoroughly enjoyed it. I loved the way parts of the story are told by the different characters. I also loved following Auggie's journey through the year. A really fantastic read.

This was a heartwarming read and opened up my eyes

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Wonder Book Summary, Characters, and Book Club Questions

By Med Kharbach, PhD | Published: March 15, 2024 | Updated: March 15, 2024

For fans of heartwarming tales that touch upon the essence of humanity, “Wonder” by R.J. Palacio is definitely a must read. This novel is for anyone looking for stories that inspire and challenge our perspectives on acceptance and friendship. The purpose of this post is to dive deep into the heart of “Wonder” without giving away its most precious moments.

My discussion will unfold in a structured manner to ensure you get the most out of this beloved story. First, I’ll provide a summary of the novel, offering a glimpse into the life of its protagonist, August Pullman, and his journey towards acceptance in a mainstream school, despite his facial difference. Next, I’ll introduce you to the key characters who play pivotal roles in Auggie’s life. Finally, I’ll conclude with some thought-provoking book club questions designed to spark deep discussions and reflections among readers, encouraging you to explore the themes of the novel from various angles and perspectives.

Related: Love You Forever Summary and Takeaways

Wonder Book Summary

“Wonder” by R.J. Palacio is a heartwarming and inspiring story centered around August “Auggie” Pullman, a boy with a facial deformity that has affected his life and prevented him from attending mainstream school until fifth grade. As Auggie embarks on his journey at Beecher Prep, he desires nothing more than to be seen as just another student, longing for acceptance and normalcy amidst his peers. Despite his hopes, Auggie faces challenges and bullying due to his appearance, but also finds moments of kindness and friendship.

The narrative unfolds through multiple perspectives, beginning with Auggie’s and then branching out to include viewpoints from his classmates, his sister Via, her boyfriend, and others. This multi-angled approach offers a comprehensive look into how Auggie’s presence affects those around him, highlighting themes of empathy, compassion, and the struggle for acceptance within the community.

Photo: Amazon

As the story progresses, the characters grapple with their own biases and learn to look beyond Auggie’s appearance, recognizing him for his bravery, kindness, and spirit. The novel delicately explores the dynamics of friendship, family, and the broader community, illustrating how acts of kindness and understanding can bridge the gaps between us.

By its conclusion, “Wonder” not only champions the importance of accepting others but also emphasizes the value of being true to oneself. It’s a testament to the notion that true beauty lies within and that everyone deserves to be seen and loved for who they are. Through Auggie Pullman’s journey, R.J. Palacio invites readers to join the Choose Kind movement, promoting a world where empathy and kindness prevail over prejudice and fear.

Wonder Book Characters

“Wonder” by R.J. Palacio features a rich cast of characters, each bringing their own perspectives and growth to the story. Here’s a look at the main characters:

• August “Auggie” Pullman : The protagonist of the story, Auggie is a boy born with Treacher Collins syndrome, leading to a facial deformity that has significantly impacted his life and interactions with others. Auggie is intelligent, kind, and humorous, with a deep desire to be treated as an ordinary kid.
• Olivia “Via” Pullman : Auggie’s older sister, who has her own chapters in the book, offering insight into her life and the impact of Auggie’s condition on her. Via loves her brother deeply but also struggles with the attention his condition demands from their parents and the world.
• Isabel and Nate Pullman : Auggie and Via’s parents, who are supportive and loving but also face their own challenges in raising Auggie and providing for both their children’s needs.
• Jack Will : One of Auggie’s first friends at Beecher Prep. His friendship with Auggie goes through ups and downs as he navigates peer pressure and loyalty.
• Summer Dawson : A kind-hearted girl who befriends Auggie for who he is, not because of any obligation but because she genuinely likes him. Her friendship provides Auggie with a sense of normalcy and acceptance.
• Julian Albans : Auggie’s classmate who leads the bullying against him. Julian’s actions serve as a counterpoint to the themes of kindness and acceptance, highlighting the impact of intolerance and cruelty.
• Charlotte Cody : A classmate of Auggie’s who is generally nice but remains somewhat distant, illustrating the varying degrees of acceptance and discomfort Auggie faces.
• Miranda and Ella : Via’s friends, who have grown apart from her. Their subplot explores themes of friendship, change, and the pressures of high school.
• Justin : Via’s boyfriend, who sees Auggie as a remarkable kid and supports Via through her family’s challenges. His outsider perspective on the Pullman family offers a fresh viewpoint on Auggie’s impact on those around him.

Wonder Book Club Questions

Here are some thought-provoking questions that can prompt meaningful conversations among book club members:

• Exploring Auggie’s Journey : Auggie’s transition to a mainstream school is a significant part of the story. How do you think this move affected his personal growth? Discuss how Auggie’s experiences at Beecher Prep contribute to his character development.
• Perspectives and Empathy : “Wonder” is told from multiple viewpoints. How does this narrative style enhance the story? Which perspective resonated with you the most, and why? Discuss how the different perspectives contribute to our understanding of empathy and compassion.
• The Theme of Kindness : Kindness is a central theme of the book. Can you identify moments where acts of kindness had a significant impact? Discuss how these moments contribute to the overall message of the novel.
• Challenges of Adolescence : The novel touches on various aspects of adolescence, including friendship, bullying, and self-acceptance. How do the characters navigate these challenges, and what can we learn from their experiences?
• Family Dynamics : Auggie’s family plays a crucial role in his life and his story. Discuss how the Pullman family’s dynamics and individual experiences affect Auggie’s journey. How do the family members support each other, and how do they each cope with Auggie’s challenges?
• The Role of Teachers and School Community : Characters like Mr. Browne and Mrs. Petosa have a significant impact on the students. Discuss the role of teachers and the school community in shaping the students’ attitudes towards kindness and acceptance.
• Overcoming Prejudice : Prejudice is a theme that many characters confront in various ways. Discuss how the characters’ attitudes towards Auggie change over the course of the novel. What factors contribute to these changes?
• The Impact of the Novel : “Wonder” has sparked the Choose Kind movement and has been used in educational settings to discuss bullying and empathy. Why do you think this novel has had such a significant impact? How does it encourage readers to act with more kindness and consideration in their own lives?
• Character Growth and Change : Besides Auggie, which character do you think undergoes the most significant growth? Discuss how they change from the beginning of the novel to the end.
• Reflections on the Title : After reading the novel, what significance does the title “Wonder” hold for you? How does it reflect the story’s themes and the characters’ journeys?

Related: Best 80’s Children’s Books

Final thoughts

To conclude, I hope you have found this short review of “ Wonder ” by R.J. Palacio both interesting and enlightening. This novel is a profound journey through the eyes of a boy who, despite his differences, teaches us the invaluable lessons of kindness, empathy, and the strength found in embracing who we are. If you have not already had the opportunity to read this touching narrative, I highly recommend you do so. “Wonder” represents a movement towards a more understanding and compassionate world, one reader at a time.

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Meet Med Kharbach, PhD

Dr. Med Kharbach is an influential voice in the global educational landscape, with an extensive background in educational studies and a decade-long experience as a K-12 teacher. Holding a Ph.D. from Mount Saint Vincent University in Halifax, Canada, he brings a unique perspective to the educational world by integrating his profound academic knowledge with his hands-on teaching experience. Dr. Kharbach's academic pursuits encompass curriculum studies, discourse analysis, language learning/teaching, language and identity, emerging literacies, educational technology, and research methodologies. His work has been presented at numerous national and international conferences and published in various esteemed academic journals.

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Book Review: Wonder By R.J. Palacio

By: Aditi Gandhi and Aaditya Gandhi

Wonder Book Review

Please welcome on board our special guest reviewer Willow!

Willow is 12 years old and lives in the UK, in a small town in Dorset. She has a younger brother and sister. Her hobbies are singing, reading books, and playing the piano. She also enjoys running and after school club activities.

Wonder is a wonderful book written by R. J. Palacio.

I chose this book to review because I read it as part of our English coursework. The more I read of the book, the more I started to take an interest in it. I enjoyed it so much that I wanted to write a review and explain to people why they should read it too.

Great Story Line

Wonder , is a book about a ten year old boy called August who has a life changing genetic disease.

One of the symptoms is deformities to his face.  It’s his first time going to middle school and all his life he has been home schooled by his mother and protected from the world around him.

The story centers on August’s struggle for students to accept him for who he is. Students at his school are prejudiced against him because of his appearance.

Powerful Message

This story definitely fills you with emotions and mixed feelings.

It isn’t saying that you have to be kind to everyone around you. It’s telling you that problems you have faced in your life can’t be as bad as what others have faced like August.

Realistic Characters

Wonder has a lot of characters that tell their point of view.

Interestingly, it definitely has a lot of spiteful characters. It also has acts of kindness in it too.

August has an older sister called Via, who is in high school. She explains how she feels left out of the family as August and his problems always appear to be the center of attention. She says how she wants to be loved and cared for more.

This book has a lot of details and it is easy to imagine the characters and settings in the readers mind.

My Final Thoughts

I have really enjoyed Wonder and I can’t tell you enough how powerful it is.

Out of five stars, I would rate it five stars.

I would definitely recommend this book to everyone the age of 10-16.

Get your copy here ! You can also listen to it for free with an Audible trial .

7 thoughts on “ Wonder Book Review ”

I haven’t watched the movie yet but I have read this book and I absolutely loved it. It’s the perfect all age read and it has such an important message to it which is conveyed realistic. The ending made my heart so happy I thought I would burst. I am so glad you loved it too. Brilliant review x

Lovely review! I loved this book as well. But I still haven’t had the chance to see the movie! 🙁

Hi Erica. Good to know you enjoyed Wonder. I think most people who’ve read the book love it. 🙂

It’s rare, but we finally share another book! I love this book. My boys and I read it together and then we went to see the movie. The movie just doesn’t cut it. Sigh.

Hello Lonna! I’m not surprised that the movie doesn’t cut it. Books are usually better than the movies. I still have to watch the movie though…maybe next week I will make time.

It’s nice that you can read it with your boys. My son isn’t interested in it at all. He just finished Maze Runner trilogy and now reading the prequels. I’m just happy that he’s reading. 🙂

Hi, Dinh. Congratulations on finding this superb “guest” book reviewer. Reading Willow’s book review of Wonder was very inspiring. I was easily able to gather the gist of this book and its powerful message. Willow has presented us with an excellent “first review” and must surely be encouraged to continue on this path. The proof of the benefits “reading” is available here for all to see. Smashing review Willow! Paul

Hello Paul! It’s great to have a younger reviewer on board. Willow has given her seal of approval and the recommendation is a solid one for Wonder. Wonder has reached the hearts of millions and it’s definitely one to read!

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An emotional and beautiful novel about being the new kid. 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.

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Title: charlie and the chocolate factory, author: roald dahl, what's the book about.

The book is about a boy called Charlie. His family is very poor – they don't have much money and they don't have much food.

There is a chocolate factory near Charlie's house. It is Willy Wonka's factory. Willy Wonka invites five children to visit the chocolate factory. The factory is amazing! One child wins a very special prize. Is Charlie the winner?

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My favourite character is Charlie because he is very kind. I don't like the other children because they are horrible!

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In my opinion Pokémon is the best book and movie in the world and I love it and It’s awesome. Pokémon was created by Satoshi Tajiri .My favorite character is Ash from Palet town . He is training to be the best of Pokémon going from the Kanto Region to the Galel Region . The Pokémon world is the most fascinating place in the world. You Catch Pokémon with your starter Pokemon once you have seven Pokémon you can battle a Jim leader. If you beat the Jim leader you get a badge and you keep on doing that until you have 108 badges then you can battle against the master of Pokémon if you win you are the master but if you lose you are just a normal trainer. I love reading Pokémon maybe you should read it bye!!!

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Calls grow louder for B.C. mayor to resign over residential school book incident

First nations in b.c.'s cariboo region say they won't work with quesnel until mayor ron paull steps down.

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There are growing calls for Quesnel Mayor Ron Paull to resign after revelations his wife has been handing out a book that, according to promotional material from its publisher, questions whether residential schools were fundamentally harmful to Indigenous communities and people who attended them.

More than 200 people marched outside city hall Tuesday evening before packing into an emotionally charged council meeting in the city of roughly 23,000 people, located in B.C.'s Cariboo region about 400 kilometres north of Vancouver.

"We can no longer work with this mayor and we will not work with the City of Quesnel until [the] issue has been resolved," said Lhtako Dene Chief Clifford Lebrun. 

"We can't have a community that hands out hate literature and expect people to listen to us and to take it seriously."

Calls grow louder for Quesnel mayor to step down

The meeting also heard from the mayor's wife, Pat Morton, and one of the authors featured in the book who had travelled to Quesnel to speak to council.

The controversy is a blow to reconciliation efforts, which have been at the forefront of city business.

Council began a process of working with the Lhtako Dene in 2015, formally acknowledging them as partners on whose land the city was built. In the years since, it has taken other steps toward what it calls "true reconciliation," which include restoring ownership of a downtown park to the First Nation and being the first city to officially co-host the B.C. Winter Games with an Indigenous community earlier this year.

But those efforts have been threatened after a March 19 meeting where council received a letter of concern from the Lhtako Dene about a book being distributed in the community by Morton.

The book, titled Grave Error: How the Media Misled Us (and the Truth about Residential Schools),  by authors C.P. Champion and Tom Flanagan, contains essays that its publisher says challenge several assertions made about the harms of residential schools. 

In publicity material for the book, publishers True North and Dorchester Books say statements that residential schools traumatized Indigenous people across generations and destroyed Indigenous languages and culture are either "totally false or grossly exaggerated."

• Quesnel city council condemns controversial residential school book distributed by mayor's wife

It also promises to challenge the notion that Indigenous people were forced to attend residential schools and whether the residential school system can appropriately be defined as genocide.

"Whoever wrote that book, they didn't go through residential school with us," Lhtako Dene Elder Bryant Paul told council this past Tuesday, while holding an eagle feather. "[At residential school] they beat us, sexually abused us."

Residential school survivor calls for Quesnel mayor to resign

Nazko First Nation Chief Leah Stump choked back tears as she addressed the council table.

"We deserve better than having to come here to prove we went to residential school, to prove that we were hurt and broken," she said.

In 2021, the federally-appointed Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada released a report into the schools after six years of testimony received from more than 6,000 attendees across the country.

• Residential schools, day schools, day scholars: what you need to know

It found more than 4,100 children died while attending these schools, most due to malnourishment or disease.

It also heard testimony that many of the children who attended the schools were physically, sexually or psychologically abused, ultimately characterizing the system as a "cultural genocide."

The book was unanimously denounced by Paull and council at its March 19 meeting, when the council reaffirmed their relationship with the Lhtako Dene and formally accepted the findings of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission.

The rally held at city hall on April 2 was described as one in support for truth and reconciliation. Afterward, council was addressed by First Nations leaders and elders, some of whom held back tears as they described the personal impacts of residential schools.

"We have a whole room full of elders and survivors here," Chief Lebrun said during the meeting. "They could go on all night and tell you what they went through. It hurts them that much that they would relive that, just to let you know."

• More people aware of residential school harms but work still needed, report finds

Lebrun said the Lhtako Dene would be stepping back from their partnerships with the city until further notice.

Morton, the mayor's wife, also stepped up to the microphone to speak.

"I'll say I'm sorry my actions sharing this book have upset you," she said. "I'm hurt I'm put in this position. I believe in love not hate."

Mayor's wife gets into heated exchange with Quesnel councillors

She asked two of the city councillors why they hadn't come to speak to her directly if they had concerns about the book, rather than bringing it up during a council meeting.

Frances Widdowson, one of the contributors to the book, also travelled to Quesnel to speak to council. 

She accused the city of spreading misinformation because council had read a letter from the B.C. Assembly of First Nations into the record, which included a reference to unmarked graves at the former Kamloops Residential School. 

In 2021, the Tk'emlúps te Secwépemc First Nation announced preliminary results of ground-penetrating radar work at that school, which they said showed approximately 200 potential burial sites on the grounds of the former Kamloops Indian Residential School. 

Writer accuses Quesnel council of misinformation

One of the criticisms in Grave Error is that a number of early media reports referred to these sites as unmarked graves without including context that they were unconfirmed, which the authors say have helped shape a false public narrative even as work continues at Kamloops and sites across the country to confirm the preliminary findings.

"There is no evidence of unmarked graves," Widdowson told council, a statement she repeated as people in the gallery started to drown her out with drumming. "Does council support misinformation?"

In response, Coun. Laurey-Anne Roodenburg pointed out Widdowson had been fired from Mount Royal University in Calgary after espousing the benefits of residential schools.

"You really have no place here," Roodenburg told Widdowson. "We really don't want to hear from you."

• Educate or prosecute? Two Anishnaabe weigh in on how to deal with residential school deniers

Roodenburg was one of three councillors, along with Scott Elliot and Tony Goulet, who formally asked Paull to resign during the meeting.

"Mr. Mayor, you have lost the trust of our First Nations, myself, and the vast majority of our community," Elliot said. "I have no choice but to ask for your official resignation, so we can repair the damage done by you and your wife."

Elliot and Goulet accused the mayor of handing out the book at a local government meeting, a charge that Paull denied, saying he had simply brought it up during a discussion of what books should or should not be available at a local library.

"I have not distributed the book," he said. "If you're going to accuse me of a lie, I'm going to fire right back at you because you lied. "

Near the end of the meeting, Paull apologized and said he wanted to make reparations, but that he would not stand down.

"I'm not a quitter," he said. "Quesnel is in my heart and I'm not about to abandon it."

"I see this whole incident as being an opportunity ... This incident has spawned a whole new desire in pursuing reconciliation," he added.

While there is no mechanism to force a mayor to resign, Quesnel council directed staff to report back with options for censure and sanctions. Paull was elected to office in 2022 after previously sitting as a councillor.

Support is available for anyone affected by their experience at residential schools or by the latest reports.

A national Indian Residential School Crisis Line has been set up to provide support for survivors and those affected. People can access emotional and crisis referral services by calling the 24-hour national crisis line: 1-866-925-4419.

Mental health counselling and crisis support is also available 24 hours a day, seven days a week through the Hope for Wellness hotline at 1-855-242-3310 or by online chat at  www.hopeforwellness.ca .

Corrections

• A previous version of this story stated that Frances Widdowson had been fired from Royal Roads University. In fact, she had been fired from Mount Royal University. Apr 06, 2024 9:03 AM PT

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