Title: Wonder
Author: R.J. Palacio
First published February 14, 2012
315 pages, Hardcover
Rating: 4.38
Overview
I cannot tell you how I look, but it’s not ordinary. My name is August Pullman, and I was born with a unique facial difference that has kept me away from the mainstream school.
But, as I step into Beecher Prep for the first time in the 5th grade, all I want is to be treated like every other kid. However, my new classmates are unable to see beyond my extraordinary face.
“Wonder” is a novel that takes you on an emotional journey through the eyes of Auggie, his sister, her boyfriend, his classmates, and others. Experience the power of kindness and empathy as you flip through the pages of this heartwarming book.
About the Author
R.J. Palacio resides in New York City with her spouse, two kids, and two furry companions. She spent over two decades working as an art director and graphic designer, creating book covers for other individuals as she awaited the ideal moment in her life to begin composing her own book.
However, a few years back, she had a chance meeting with a remarkable child outside an ice cream shop that made her realize that the time had come to write that book. Her debut novel, Wonder, was born.
Despite not being the cover artist, she thoroughly adores the design. It’s worth noting that Raquel Jaramillo is the actual name behind the pseudonym R.J. Palacio.
Editoral Review
Wonder by R.J. Palacio is a novel that touches the heartstrings of its readers. First published on February 14, 2012, the book has garnered a vast audience and positive feedback from readers, making it a New York Times bestseller.
The novel falls under the young adult fiction genre and is part of the ‘School Life’ theme. Palacio creates a world of a young boy named August, who has a facial deformity, and his journey in finding self-acceptance.
August, known as Auggie, is the protagonist of Wonder. He has a facial deformity, making him look different from other children his age.
The plot begins as he transitions from homeschooling to attending a middle school, allowing the reader to follow along with his interactions with others. The author uses various characters to show the challenges that Auggie faces, such as being bullied and ostracized.
The plot highlights the perseverance and courage of the young boy, along with his family and friends, to overcome those challenges. The setting of the book takes place in Manhattan and tells the story of Auggie’s year in middle school.
Although the plot is fictional, the book makes an important statement about appearance, image, and bullying. Wonder touches upon the themes of acceptance, love, kindness, and friendship, presenting readers with powerful messages about the importance of seeing beyond appearances.
R.J. Palacio’s writing style is engaging and compelling, making it hard for readers to put the book down. She has a talent for delving deep into the characters’ emotions and expressing them in a relatable way.
Palacio’s careful crafting of the dialogue and prose allows the reader to connect with characters, especially Auggie. With heart-warming and emotional moments, the book is bound to make the reader’s heart swell.
At times, the secondary characters could have used more character development. With the book being predominantly about Auggie, the audience does not get to explore much about the lives of the other characters, making them seem not fully formed.
However, this does little to detract from the overall quality of the book. Wonder is not only an exceptional read but also relevant in modern society.
It is a perfect fit for readers of all ages, and it is especially important for middle school students facing similar challenges to Auggie. It is a reminder to look beyond appearances and to always practice kindness towards others.
This novel is an inspiration to those who have ever felt left out and proves that anything is possible with the right mindset. I give this book five stars for its thought-provoking themes, complicated characters, and emotional depth.
