Wonder by R. J. Palacio

Category:Children’s Books/Fiction/Literature

Rating:4.35/5 

Pages:315 

About the Book:

Wonder by R. J. Palacio is a bestselling modern children’s classic and the author’s debut novel. Palacio, the pen name of Raquel Jaramillo, spent more than two decades working as an art director and graphic designer before turning to fiction. First published in 2012, Wonder became widely celebrated for its compassionate treatment of difference, friendship, bullying, family, and kindness. The novel has reached millions of readers and inspired the widely recognized “Choose Kind” message, making it an influential book for young readers as well as families and educators.

The story follows August “Auggie” Pullman, a ten-year-old boy born with a facial difference who has been homeschooled by his parents until he begins fifth grade at Beecher Prep. Entering school for the first time, Auggie must deal with classmates who stare at him, misunderstand him, or struggle to look beyond his appearance, while he also discovers genuine friendship and support. The novel is told from Auggie’s perspective as well as through the viewpoints of people around him, allowing readers to understand how his experiences affect his family, friends, and classmates. Through these interconnected perspectives, Palacio explores courage, empathy, acceptance, bullying, friendship, family, and the importance of choosing kindness.