Wonder
And don't miss R.J. Palacio's highly anticipated new novel, Pony, available September 2021!
I won't describe what I look like. Whatever you're thinking, it's probably worse.
August Pullman was born with a facial difference that, up until now, has prevented him from going to a mainstream school. Starting 5th grade at Beecher Prep, he wants nothing more than to be treated as an ordinary kid—but his new classmates can’t get past Auggie’s extraordinary face. Beginning from Auggie’s point of view and expanding to include his classmates, his sister, her boyfriend, and others, the perspectives converge to form a portrait of one community’s struggle with empathy, compassion, and acceptance. In a world where bullying among young people is an epidemic, this is a refreshing new narrative full of heart and hope.
R.J. Palacio has called her debut novel “a meditation on kindness” —indeed, every reader will come away with a greater appreciation for the simple courage of friendship. Auggie is a hero to root for, a diamond in the rough who proves that you can’t blend in when you were born to stand out.
Wonder: A Story of Kindness, Courage, and Acceptance
R. J. Palacio's heartwarming novel, "Wonder," takes readers on an inspiring journey alongside August Pullman, a young boy born with Treacher Collins syndrome, a rare genetic condition that affects his facial features. Despite the challenges he faces, Auggie is full of spirit and determination to make his way in the world.
The story begins as Auggie enters the fifth grade at Beecher Prep, a mainstream school, for the first time. He is understandably nervous about how his classmates will react to him, but he is determined to make friends and prove that he is just like any other kid.
Auggie's journey is not without its challenges. He is often teased and bullied by his classmates, who are quick to judge him based on his appearance. However, Auggie also finds kindness and acceptance in the form of his teacher, Mr. Browne, and his new friends, Jack Will and Summer.
As Auggie navigates the ups and downs of middle school, he learns the importance of acceptance, empathy, and kindness. He also learns to embrace his own uniqueness and to see himself for the amazing person he is.
"Wonder" is a powerful and moving story that will stay with readers long after they finish reading it. It is a celebration of diversity and a reminder that everyone deserves to be loved and accepted for who they are.
Themes Explored in "Wonder"
- Kindness and Compassion: The novel emphasizes the importance of being kind and compassionate to others, even if they are different from us.
- Acceptance: "Wonder" explores the idea of acceptance, both of ourselves and of others. Auggie learns to accept himself for who he is, and his classmates learn to accept him as well.
- Empathy: The novel encourages readers to develop empathy for others. By understanding Auggie's perspective, readers can learn to see the world through the eyes of someone who is different from them.
- Courage: Auggie demonstrates incredible courage throughout the novel. He faces adversity with bravery and determination, and he never gives up on himself.
- Friendship: The novel explores the power of friendship. Auggie finds true friends in Jack Will and Summer, who support him and accept him for who he is.
"Wonder" is a must-read for readers of all ages. It is a story that will inspire, uplift, and change the way you think about the world.
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