Book Review: Wonder
Wonder by R.J. Palacio
R.J. Palacio’s heartwarming story of Wonder centers around the life of ten-year-old August “Auggie” Pullman. Although he doesn’t behave any differently than any other child of his age (he plays on his Xbox and adores ice cream), his facial deformity prevents him from being accepted by others. The plot is narrated through the diverse perspectives of himself and those around him, detailing a multifaceted plot that explores the challenges of feeling isolated and the importance of friendship towards developing self-confidence.
The story is kicked off when August gets abruptly pulled out of his “homeschooled life” and placed into Beecher Prep, a private middle school. Although he is initially faced with bullying from his peers and pity from his classmates, eventually, Auggie gradually transforms the hearts of those around him and overcomes these challenges. I found Palacio’s ability to simultaneously depict Auggie’s internal struggles and emotional growth as both poignant and rather inspiring because of how relatable and natural it was carried out.
A particular aspect of the storytelling that I believe is exceptionally unique is that the book is told through multiple perspectives. Personally, Palacio’s unique formatting of the novel was definitely one of its greatest strengths and truly unique. These varying viewpoints provide an understanding of how Auggie’s story affects those around him through viewpoints invisible from his own. Via’s perspective (his sister’s), for instance, highlights the sacrifices and emotional burdens siblings of children with disabilities often bear, providing insight in her ambition to become a doctor as well as Auggie’s impact towards her own social life as such.
The wonderful themes of friendship and kindness permeate the story as small acts of compassion can ultimately lead up to large ripples of change among a community. The precept of “When given the choice between being right or being kind, choose kind,” serves as a gratifying moral compass not only for the characters, but also for the audience, regardless of age, gender, race, or anything in between. Auggie’s journey only serves as a vessel to reinforce Palacio’s beautiful message, ultimately leading to a conclusion that celebrates his resilience and never-ending empathy towards others.
The story is kicked off when August gets abruptly pulled out of his “homeschooled life” and placed into Beecher Prep, a private middle school. Although he is initially faced with bullying from his peers and pity from his classmates, eventually, Auggie gradually transforms the hearts of those around him and overcomes these challenges. I found Palacio’s ability to simultaneously depict Auggie’s internal struggles and emotional growth as both poignant and rather inspiring because of how relatable and natural it was carried out.
A particular aspect of the storytelling that I believe is exceptionally unique is that the book is told through multiple perspectives. Personally, Palacio’s unique formatting of the novel was definitely one of its greatest strengths and truly unique. These varying viewpoints provide an understanding of how Auggie’s story affects those around him through viewpoints invisible from his own. Via’s perspective (his sister’s), for instance, highlights the sacrifices and emotional burdens siblings of children with disabilities often bear, providing insight in her ambition to become a doctor as well as Auggie’s impact towards her own social life as such.
The wonderful themes of friendship and kindness permeate the story as small acts of compassion can ultimately lead up to large ripples of change among a community. The precept of “When given the choice between being right or being kind, choose kind,” serves as a gratifying moral compass not only for the characters, but also for the audience, regardless of age, gender, race, or anything in between. Auggie’s journey only serves as a vessel to reinforce Palacio’s beautiful message, ultimately leading to a conclusion that celebrates his resilience and never-ending empathy towards others.
While Wonder is primarily aimed at middle-school readers, like said, its themes resonate with audiences of all ages. To wrap it up, Wonder is a testament to the power that empathy towards others hold, and a reminder that even the smallest gestures of kindness can make the world a better place. I highly recommend this book for anyone seeking an inspiring and meaningful read, especially to those who have already read it once.
Reviewed by Teen Volunteer, 12/17/24.