Wonder; R.J. Palacio
| published November 3, 2014 |

Book review by Kristy Webster
Thursday Review contributor

“Everyone in the world should get a standing ovation at least one time in their life.” August Pullman, Wonder.

August, “Auggie” Pullman is an ordinary boy with an extraordinary face. “I won’t describe what I look like,” he tells us, “Whatever you’re thinking it’s probably worse.”

Having been homeschooled through the fourth grade, Auggie is about to embark on a journey both exciting and terrifying: attending fifth grade at Beecher Prep.

How teachers, fellow students and other parents react to Auggie’s presence ranges a wide spectrum, from awkward to cruel, to benevolent and even heroic.

Told from various character perspectives, Auggie’s courage in the wake of cruelty from children and adults alike, transforms those closest to him. Though tackling the painful reality of what it’s like to be judged and persecuted for something out of ones control.  Wonder is also a clever, funny and hopeful story with a simple but profound underlying message: Be kinder than necessary.


Related Thursday Review articles:

The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian; Sherman Alexie; book review by Kristy Webster; Thursday Review; August 25, 2014.

If I Stay; Gayle Forman; book review by Kristy Webster; Thursday Review; July 14, 2014.