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A review by snipinfool
Wonder by R.J. Palacio
emotional
hopeful
informative
inspiring
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
Wonder told the story of August “Auggie” Pullman, a ten year old, who was born with cranio-facial abnormalities. His mother had always taught him at home, but his parents felt it was time he went to school with other children his age. Auggie was entering the 5th grade and his parents felt Beecher Prep. would be a good fit for him. It was a smaller school and near their home. All of the students would be moving up to middle school and starting new transitions. Auggie was understandably nervous, but was willing to give it a try. The book followed Auggie throughout his 5th grade year.
I loved this story. Auggie was wonderful. He had a matter-of-fact attitude about himself and abilities. People underestimated his intelligence because of how he looked and he enjoyed proving them wrong. I liked how Auggie’s parents and sister were written. The love and concern they felt for him showed in their words and actions. As one would guess, his year was full of ups and downs. He made friends and gained enemies. These are things that normally happen in school, but it was heartbreaking when he was hurt by others’ actions. It is hard being the new kid at school. I was the new kid several times growing up. We moved to four different cities by the time I graduated from high school. The fifth grade was a new kid year for me. Sometimes, it was not as easy to make new friends when those around you had known each other for years and weren’t looking to add to their friend group. I could relate to some of what Auggie went through being new to the school. The ending was special and uplifting. It was a lesson in learning to trust that you are good enough.
I loved this story. Auggie was wonderful. He had a matter-of-fact attitude about himself and abilities. People underestimated his intelligence because of how he looked and he enjoyed proving them wrong. I liked how Auggie’s parents and sister were written. The love and concern they felt for him showed in their words and actions. As one would guess, his year was full of ups and downs. He made friends and gained enemies. These are things that normally happen in school, but it was heartbreaking when he was hurt by others’ actions. It is hard being the new kid at school. I was the new kid several times growing up. We moved to four different cities by the time I graduated from high school. The fifth grade was a new kid year for me. Sometimes, it was not as easy to make new friends when those around you had known each other for years and weren’t looking to add to their friend group. I could relate to some of what Auggie went through being new to the school. The ending was special and uplifting. It was a lesson in learning to trust that you are good enough.
Content Warnings
Moderate: Body shaming and Bullying