Wonder - R J Palachio

Wonder by R. J. Palachio
Genre: J Realistic Fiction

Blurb (on back of book): August (Auggie) Pullman was born with a facial difference that prevented him from going to mainstream school — until now. He's about to enter fifth 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 classmates that he's just like them, despite appearances?

MY OPINION: *****

I know that so far all of my reviews are five stars, but I cannot neglect Wonder! The book is so touching throughout the whole story. It is told from many different views, including three parts on Auggie and a few on his friends and his sister's friends. It is amazing how true it is that one person can see something this way and one person can see something another way.

Auggie Pullman is a really smart kid, but kids don't like him because of the way his face looks. He was born with a disease that "ruined" his face. Kids are afraid of him, and because of that, they let their fear turn to hate instead.

This book shows so much emotion. It is very real to life and is entirely possible. It isn't that kids are mean or anything, it's just that the only way they can find to face their fears is to be cruel to Auggie. Kids like Julian and Miles and Henry: they are normal kids, but they bully Auggie because of the fear of his face.

This book shows how important it is to be kind to others, no matter how hard it is. it teaches a lesson for many kids (and adults too). Be kind, and you will be rewarded.

I would recommend this book for fourth-, fifth-, sixth-, and even seventh-graders. This would even appeal to some adults! The other day, I saw a mom pick it up and start reading then and there.

Main Character: August (Auggie) Pullman
Sidekicks: Jack Will, Summer Dawson, other classmates (towards the end)
Villain: Julian*, Miles*, Henry*
Realistic Fiction Elements: All of this could happen, though it is unlikely that you will witness this anytime soon

*They aren't exactly villains. They do bully Auggie, but Miles and Henry are only following Julian and they soon stop. Julian had his own reasons, which you can read about in "The Julian Chapter" in Auggie and Me (the next book) or in some special editions of Wonder.