I won't describe what I look like. Whatever you're thinking, it's probably worse. August (Auggie) Pullman was born with a facial deformity that prevented him from going to a mainstream school—until now. He's about to start 5th grade at Beecher Prep, and if you've ever been the new kid then you know how hard that can be.

The thing is Auggie's just an ordinary kid, with an ex I won't describe what I look like. Whatever you're thinking, it's probably worse. August (Auggie) Pullman was born with a facial deformity that prevented him from going to a mainstream school—until now. He's about to start 5th grade at Beecher Prep, and if you've ever been the new kid then you know how hard that can be. The thing is Auggie's just an ordinary kid, with an extraordinary face.

But can he convince his new classmates that he's just like them, despite appearances? Palacio has written a spare, warm, uplifting story that will have readers laughing one minute and wiping away tears the next.

With wonderfully realistic family interactions (flawed, but loving), lively school scenes, and short chapters, Wonder is accessible to readers of all levels. You may feel that this book teaches children not to judge books by covers, but, I felt that it teaches children bad lessons. Auggie got special You may feel that this book teaches children not to judge books by covers, but, I felt that it teaches children bad lessons. Auggie got special treatment, and was given a medal just for, basically, being disabled.

Jack Canfield's. Reading List. The Science of Success. The Power of Focus: How to Hit Your Business, Personal and Financial Targets with Absolute Certainty by Jack. Canfield, Mark Victor Hansen and. Dare to Win by Jack Canfield and Mark Victor Hansen. New York: Berkley, 1994.

That tells people that disabled/handicapped people are special and different, and should be treated this way. When, in reality, disabled/handicapped people are normal, and shouldn't be given awards for no reason. 'Wonder' also teaches children that, if somebody is a bully, they deserve every shred of hate that is possible for them to receive. Julian was berated mercilessly throughout this book, and Jack said that he would want to KILL HIMSELF if he were Julian!! First of all, why do we want our children to think that it's fine to joke about suicide? And why do we want our children to think that bullies deserve to die? Also, why wasn't Julian forgiven, and why didn't he get his own point of view?

And why was it okay for Jack to punch Julian in the face? IS THIS SERIOUSLY WHAT YOU WANT THE YOUTH OF THE NATION TO BE READING?!?!!?! By the way, my favorite character was Julian.

He was the one I could sympathize with the most. If somebody said that they would kill themselves if they were me, and then LAUGHED about it, I would be devastated. Wonder is one of those rare books that makes you want to hug everyone in it so tightly that they’ll have no doubt about how much you love themand beyond that, it also makes you want to reach out and hug the whole world. It’s an upbeat, humorous, life-affirming story that deserves to be read—and it’s one that may just change its readers, too. If you remember how terrifying it was to be a kid on a day to day basis, you’ll appreciate August’s story.

10-year-old Auggie is going to school for the fir Wonder is one of those rare books that makes you want to hug everyone in it so tightly that they’ll have no doubt about how much you love themand beyond that, it also makes you want to reach out and hug the whole world. It’s an upbeat, humorous, life-affirming story that deserves to be read—and it’s one that may just change its readers, too. If you remember how terrifying it was to be a kid on a day to day basis, you’ll appreciate August’s story. 10-year-old Auggie is going to school for the first time in his life, and he has to navigate new rules, learn to interact with teachers, and figure out how to make new friends. In addition, he also has a severe facial deformity that stops strangers in their tracks, so all the usual perils of the fifth grade take on even more heightened stakes. With the matter-of-fact wisdom that warmed ’s books, this story about growing up is full of heart and humor, and written with a clear-eyed intelligence that never descends into cynicism.

Auggie’s smart, funny personality will win over readers who will agonize with him over the complicated web of friendships and family even as they cheer for him as he learns some of life’s big and scary lessons. It’s okay, I know I’m weird-looking, take a look, I don’t bite. Hey, the truth is, if a wookie started going to school all of a sudden, I’d be curious, I’d probably stare a bit!

And if I was walking with Jack or Summer, I’d probably whisper to them: Hey, there’s the wookie. And if the wookie caught me saying that, he’d know I wasn’t trying to be mean. I was just pointing out the fact that he’s a wookie. Even with a positive attitude and smart, loving parents, however, Auggie’s story is not an easy one to read, and my emotions ran wildly from sadness to hilarity to terrible anger at what happens to him. Not all kids are nice. Some kids behave one way in front of adults and another way in front of kids.

Some adults are downright cruel. And just when you think life can’t possibly get any harder or more challenging, sometimes it does. Although the book is primarily told from Auggie’s perspective, it was a surprise to me when it switched to a few other points of view.

With a total of six different voices, I would normally say this is far too many, but in this particular case every person offered an insight into August’s beautiful personality and amazing life in a way that would be impossible to otherwise know. Reading about Auggie’s 27 surgeries, rejoicing at his vibrant inner life, hurting for him when he felt lonely or misunderstood, and seeing his life from various different perspectives, it’s impossible not to be moved by his story. And how can you not love a boy who understands that sometimes his mom might need his precious teddy bear more than he does?

Not entirely random side note: [In my former life, I worked in movie publicity. In that position, you’re subjected to a lot of wheedling and sob stories, so it’s natural to develop a pretty jaded viewpoint.

So when a film critic forwarded a plea to me from the mom of a young boy who wanted to attend an advance screening of the latest Harry Potter movie, my first reaction was automatic suspicion—why couldn’t this kid wait the two months until the movie was out? I did a lot of research before I finally spoke to the mom, but I’m so glad I did. Because it turned out the boy was in the advanced stages of an incurable illness and was not expected to live much longer. It made me so terribly ashamed that I had doubted the story.

Understandable, yes, but I knew that the letter could easily have been overlooked in the hustle and bustle of the business—and it scared me to think that something that so important might have been lost because of other things that mattered so much less. In this case, I made sure this boy and his family got the VIP treatment, including a ton of swag and a very memorable evening. He was absolutely incandescent that night, and his parents told me afterwards that it was one of the happiest experiences in his young life. When his mom told me a few months later that he’d passed away, it was terribly sad. But I was so grateful to have had that brief contact, and to have helped bring a tiny bit of joy into his last months.

It was, just as Wonder is, a reminder that it’s so much easier to look the other way, because of impatience or fear. But sometimes reaching out to another human being can be a life-changing experience, for everyone concerned. As many have said before me, taking action doesn't just change the other person, it also changes you.

] Tears were streaming down my face as I finished this book—and the funny thing is, they were primarily tears of joy. Wonder is written with the kind of sensitivity and insight that I had hoped for when I read, and it went the extra mile to be an uplifting story that made me want to embrace life and the people in it, too.

I also very much appreciate that this middle grade book is written for its intended age group, not just a book for adults in the guise of a children’s book, even though it’s certainly one that can be enjoyed by readers of any age. “There are always going to be jerks in the world, Auggie,” she said, looking at me. “But I really believe, and Daddy really believes, that there are more good people on this earth than bad people, and the good people watch out for each other and take care of each other.” A story like this comes along just a few times in a lifetime, and I fervently hope that readers will find their way to it. This short book that doesn’t waste a single page in squeezing your emotions so tightly you feel like you can't breathe, but when they're finally released, you may find that your heart is full of even more empathy, compassion, and love than you thought possible. We expect to be surprised by cruelty, but how wonderful it is to also be surprised by kindness.

This review also appears in. An advance copy was provided by the publisher. About the Inspiration Behind the Story The ice cream incident in this story actually happened, but perhaps not in the way you might think. Learn about the surprising inspiration behind this story on the. She's definitely an author to watch. Ye gods, what a wonderful book! I don't read a lot of realistic middle grade fiction.

I tend to gravitate toward fantasy. But this is probably the best such book I've read since Sherman Alexie's The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian. The main character August (Auggie) Pullman is a ten-year-old boy with severe facial abnormalities. Little kids scream when they see him.

Older kids make fun of him and call him a freak. Auggie is home-schooled through grade four, but for middle school his p Ye gods, what a wonderful book! I don't read a lot of realistic middle grade fiction. I tend to gravitate toward fantasy. But this is probably the best such book I've read since Sherman Alexie's The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian. The main character August (Auggie) Pullman is a ten-year-old boy with severe facial abnormalities. Little kids scream when they see him.

Older kids make fun of him and call him a freak. Auggie is home-schooled through grade four, but for middle school his parents decide to send him to a private school, Beecher Prep, in New York City. Wonder is the story of his fifth grade year, told partly from Auggie's perspective, and partly from the other kids in his life -- his sister Via, her oldest friend Miranda, Via's boyfriend Justin, and Jack and Summer, Auggie's new friends at Beecher Prep. Each narrator has a distinct, completely believable voice. Palacio writes with just the right balance of humor and pathos, making each character both flawed and sympathetic. She 'gets' kids -- how they think, how they talk, how they have the capacity to be both horribly mean and incredibly brave and kind.

I recognize these characters from my years of teaching middle school, and I'm sure young readers will recognize them too. The book rings with authenticity. The short chapters and shifting narrative make this a quick, easy read. It's a feel-good book with a great message, and the ending is a tearjerker in the best possible way. I'd recommend it without hesitation to most middle grade readers, girls or boys, even those who may not normally pick up realistic fiction. Personally, I prefer my ARC cover. You like?:) [image error] August has always known that he's different.

But he's learned to long accept that people will always stare at his face, and there's nothing he can do about it. So why not just live life the best way possible?

With a loving family always by his side, although originally not at all happy about starting school, he soon starts to warm to the idea. Having been home-schooled for many years he is now more vulnerable than ever. Like any person t Personally, I prefer my ARC cover. You like?:) [image error] August has always known that he's different. But he's learned to long accept that people will always stare at his face, and there's nothing he can do about it. So why not just live life the best way possible? With a loving family always by his side, although originally not at all happy about starting school, he soon starts to warm to the idea.

Having been home-schooled for many years he is now more vulnerable than ever. Like any person that's a new student, August faces many mixed reactions from fellow students.

Some are welcoming like Summers and Jack. Others not so much like Henry and Julian. But add to that something which will make you definitely stand out - and not in a positive way - and you are bound to have a rough few days. I just want to say this straight out.

If I was August, heck no would I be brave enough to walk through those gates. He is just ten years old but his sensibility, ability to laugh at himself and his courage just blew me away.

I think he is such a wonderful human being. I can't gush enough about him. What I particularly love about the book is how we are able to see August through others too.

Of course this is Augusts journey, but it's interesting to see how others see him. Via, his sister, is the one I found most interesting. She's a teenager and at that age where she is still discovering new things about herself day by day. And although she adores her brother, she's grown up learning never to complain, to never want or expect anything from her parents. She's always known that August is first priority since her parents are so over -protective over him, but little by little, it's clear that she's starting to grow a little resentful. And she hates herself for it, because she loves her family so much.

What really shined for me was not just August himself, but his loving tight - knit family. The kind that you see in cartoons or children's books. The bedtime stories, the hugs and kisses. It's so lovely to just watch from afar and see how supportive and sweet they are towards one another.

And hey, when we get to the last few pages it's just full on inspiring. Some very touching, quotable moments there.;). I feel like I want to attach a giant asterisk to those two stars up there: * I acknowledge that this opinion will not be shared by 90% or more of readers. I know that most everyone is going to love this book: it’s a very sweet, heartwarming story.

And on top of that – it’s well written and flows really nicely. I finished it in one afternoon.

For a really well thought-out, positive review I would read. If you insist on staying here – be prepared for dissent and lot of middle-school remi I feel like I want to attach a giant asterisk to those two stars up there: * I acknowledge that this opinion will not be shared by 90% or more of readers.

I know that most everyone is going to love this book: it’s a very sweet, heartwarming story. And on top of that – it’s well written and flows really nicely. I finished it in one afternoon. For a really well thought-out, positive review I would read. If you insist on staying here – be prepared for dissent and lot of middle-school reminiscing on my part. You’ve been warned.

And now to the task at hand! This is the story of August, a ten year old boy who’s attending school for the first time. He was born with major facial deformities, and has been homeschooled from early childhood.

His parents think it’s time for him to attempt a real school environment, but he isn’t sure. In public, he’s often greeted by curious stares or even open revulsion. Will he be able to survive middle school? This book got under my skin a lot more than I ever expected it to. I thought that my major complaint (if any) would be that it was too light, too sweet.

But this book has a lot of depth. It contains six (or more – I kind of lost track) points of view. The narrative is handed off relay-style from one pair of eyes to another, starting with August and moving forward to his sister Via and then to his friends. I think this was largely successful; although, (and this is just my opinion) I think that if you need to distinguish multiple POV’s using differences in spelling/capitalizations/fonts then you probably shouldn’t be writing multiple POV’s. Justin’s chapter (written in present tense and with no capitalizations) and the emails/texts between Auggie and Jack (which were horrific in their spelling, even though the two boys have perfect spelling in their respective sections) felt distracting. But for the most part I found this to be a very engrossing, intelligent, thoughtful read.

I related really strongly to the chapters from Via and Summer, in particular. However, I think that the main reason that I just could not connect with this book is that I fundamentally disagree with its central lesson, which boils down to: “be kind.” To explain myself properly, I need to relate a little history of my own (and this is where this review gets personal). One of my best friends for the past (almost) seventeen years is disabled.

I don’t like saying that, because she hates that word. I can hear her voice in my head right now, doing an exaggerated parody of the word handicapped: “ hayun-d-CAPPED!”, which she also hates.

We met in 8th grade French class and quickly bonded over a shared love of movies and just about everything else. We were practically joined hip-to-wheel (she would totally laugh at that) from grades 8-11, when I tragically had to move to another state.

Even so, we’ve remained close. I attended her wedding three years ago and we’ve commiserated over the “newborn phase” now that she’s had her first child.

My friend has very limited mobility on the entire right side of her body. As a small child, she walked using a walker, but made the decision as she got older to start using a wheelchair. People often stared when she walked – she moved so differently than everyone else. They stared less when she was in a chair. But there’s one thing that my friend has always hated even more than curious or disgusted stares: when people asked her why she needed a wheelchair. I don’t know how many times a well-meaning friend or adult sat down with her and asked – all concern, all solicitude – for “her story.” She got so tired of it that she started making up fake answers.

This one was my favorite: “ I-I-I don’t know, man! I was f-fine yesterday! I could walk! Y-you gotta help me! I think it’s contagious!” And then she would proceed to clutch at whoever was asking. When we were fifteen, we spent one day together going around the mall and her neighborhood in wheelchairs. I used one of her older ones.

It wasn’t like some sophisticated attempt at a social experiment on my part – I just wanted to get a small glimpse of what it was like for her. In hindsight, I think that I could probably be accused of the kind of arrogant curiosity that she hated – but she was forgiving enough to go along with my idea and if it bothered her, she never mentioned it. What I remember most was how kind everyone was. How solicitous. How they looked at us with soft gazes, as they said things like, “ do you girls need any help today?

I finally got a small inkling of what it must be like to deal with that for your entire life: a constant wave of kind smiles and soft voices and helpfulness; a constant blindness to everything about you. It says: you are not someone to be taken seriously, to be respected. You are someone to be pitied. A few of the many reasons that I love my friend so much are that she’s outspoken, blunt, honest, and bold. When we were teenagers, she would go right up to boys and flirt shamelessly with them.

She would state her opinions loudly with no apologies. It was like a dare. It was like she was saying: I dare you to disagree with me, hate me, lust after me.

My friend didn’t want to be treated with kindness; she wanted to be treated like a person. She wanted to be loved, hated, desired, or ignored just like everyone else.

And now I finally come to the point: why I couldn’t possibly connect with this book (some spoilers follow). I don’t think that I’m giving too much away when I say that Auggie gets a happy ending. Or at least, it’s supposed to be. Auggie the character seems over the moon about it all. He just loves it when the former bullies in his class start patting him on the back and calling him “little dude” like he’s their special mascot.

That’s what real friends do! He’s just so happy – as his friends are growing up and discovering the opposite sex, as his beautiful friends Summer and Jack seem destined to be a couple. It’s so great! Good thing he doesn’t want any of that! He’s just content to remain the asexual third wheel forever. And he’s ecstatic to receive an award – for kindness! – that even he acknowledges was given to him because he’s the kid with the disability.

And of course they all just cheer and cheer as he walks up to the podium – in front of everyone – so happy!! Even though he hates being in front of crowds. It’s picture time! Even though he’s had a lifelong aversion to having his picture taken – let’s get a million! With all of his close, close (only started acknowledging him two seconds ago) friends.

Okay, so - sarcasm aside. I do realize that not every disabled experience is the same.

Maybe Auggie would like to be acknowledged - I don't know. But when everyone’s congratulating themselves for being so kind to him, it makes me feel insulted on his behalf. Doesn’t he want to be taken seriously? Doesn’t he want to be seen as more than just the special kid? Doesn’t he want to be respected as a person? All I have is my own experience, and it tells me that it’s better to treat people with dignity and respect than with kindness. And so the central point of this book (for all that it is very well-meaning) seems at best simplistic to me – and at worst – insulting.

'I finally got a small inkling of what it must be like to deal with that for your entire life: a constant wave of kind smiles and soft voices and help 'I finally got a small inkling of what it must be like to deal with that for your entire life: a constant wave of kind smiles and soft voices and helpfulness; a constant blindness to everything about you. It says: you are not someone to be taken seriously, to be respected. You are someone to be pitied. ' Interesting perspective that people were kind to you and your friend only because of pity. Could they have been kind because they are kind?

And, how would you have judged the people who just ignored you? Or other people who might have laughed at you, or made fun of you? Basically, people are jerks, or uncaring, or pitying disabled people? I would hope there are people out therre who are just plain kind. 23 hours, 9 min ago.

Update: Saw the 10am movie this morning. Paul bought our tickets --while I covered my face with my hat until we got to our seats in the dark theater. I have a small surgery this coming Monday in the doctor's office on my nose (thank heavens for the numbing prescription cream) >>before the shots and knife come at me. Then the bigger surgery, Nov. 29th, at the hospital, --so I wanted to see this film (escape from hiding inside my home) --as my inspiration --before more cutting on my face! Update: Saw the 10am movie this morning. Paul bought our tickets --while I covered my face with my hat until we got to our seats in the dark theater.

I have a small surgery this coming Monday in the doctor's office on my nose (thank heavens for the numbing prescription cream) >>before the shots and knife come at me. Then the bigger surgery, Nov.

29th, at the hospital, --so I wanted to see this film (escape from hiding inside my home) --as my inspiration --before more cutting on my face! I admit to not being able to watch this film without tears. It was WONDER-ful!!!!! The movie has a terrific cast: Jacob Tremblay, Julia Roberts, Owen Wilson, Mandy Patinkin, and Izabela Vidovic.

The film doesn't only focus on Auggie. It also revolves around his sister, his parents, his dog, conflicts and friendships with other students at school, and bullying. A very heartwarming film..and little Auggie is still my hero!!! Re- READ this last night.Augie is my inspiration. The movie opens here Nov. With 2 more surgeries on my face this month - forehead and nose area. Little 10 year old Augie is my imaginary friend!!

I feel ready - scars will just be scars — and beauty really does come from the inside. And love is Love!

All that mushy jazz!!! Wonder is wonderful and the movie looks like a Wonder too!!!

Looking forward to seeing the film. The author created an incredible character. Augie lives in the minds now of millions of people around the world. Huge honors to the author!!!! I read this book yesterday (wonderful Teen book for for 'adults' like me too). I wanted a book to rest with (One sitting-3hour-page-turning book).

This was it!!!!! I smiled -I cried -- Priceless!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I am so glad that I finally got around to listening to this story. 'Wonder' had been sitting on my TBR list for a really long time, but I had been waiting for a time to listen to it with my daughters. That time finally arrived last weekend, when we had to spend a full day in the car on a trip. I had read many great reviews for this book, so I had really high hopes going into it. In fact, I was worried that I would be disappointed, as I often am with a book that is surrounded by so much hype. I am so glad that I finally got around to listening to this story. 'Wonder' had been sitting on my TBR list for a really long time, but I had been waiting for a time to listen to it with my daughters.

That time finally arrived last weekend, when we had to spend a full day in the car on a trip. I had read many great reviews for this book, so I had really high hopes going into it. In fact, I was worried that I would be disappointed, as I often am with a book that is surrounded by so much hype. However, I can say that this book did not let me down in any way. In fact, it exceeded every expectation that I had. I absolutely loved this story! 'Wonder' tells the story of a young boy, August Pullman aka 'Auggie', who is going to begin attending school for the first time ever.

Auggie has been homeschooled for years by his mother because he was born with severe facial deformities, requiring multiple operations over the course of his young life. Despite the myriad of surgeries that he has undergone, he still lives with significant facial disfigurement. Now, Auggie will be entering the fifth grade at Beecher Prep. Told from multiple POVs, this book provides a thorough account of Auggie's experiences. I was especially impressed with the raw honesty of his sister's POV. Growing up with Auggie wasn't easy, as she always came second to his needs. She struggled with resentment and guilt over having those feelings, as she truly loved her brother but craved the attention of her parents also.

Auggie's POV was also brutally honest. He was well aware of how other people viewed him.

Yet, no amount of awareness can make a child immune to the stares and cruel words. Download Savvy Tv Driver Windows Xp. His story was heartbreaking, but inspiring. It was also easy to relate to the POVs of others, including Jack, the boy who befriends Auggie at school.

Although some of his actions were upsetting, he was only human. I had to remind myself that he was just a young boy, battling his own insecurities and trying to fit in at a very impressionable age. Even good people do bad things sometimes. As a parent, I both admired and sympathized with Auggie's mother. My heart went out to her. I could only imagine how difficult it would be to enroll your child into school, wanting to provide as normal a life as possible, while also wanting to shelter and protect him. I don't know what I would've done in her shoes.

Not surprisingly, this was an incredibly emotional story. At times, it was downright depressing. However, I couldn't help but fall in love with Auggie and his resilience. This story broke my heart, but it also inspired me. Most importantly, this story will make you reflect on your views and behaviors. This story highlights the cruelty of people's actions, bred from ignorance and fear.

Never have I read a story that so effectively prompts readers to examine the impact of their actions and words. For children, this was a wonderful lesson in empathy. This book prompted some thoughtful discussion with my daughters (5 and 10) about bullying and the 'golden rule'. Although some of the story went over the head of my 5 year-old, who was primarily hung-up on the hilarity of the 'farting nurse', my 10 year-old didn't miss a beat. I have no doubt that this story will stick with her and make her more considerate and empathetic toward other children.

'Wonder' is the type of book that should be required reading in schools and I'm glad to hear that it is in some schools already. Just like 'The Diary of a Young Girl' (Anne Frank's Diary), this book is a book that guides you to be a better, more thoughtful, person. It is beautiful and engaging. No doubt about it, this book left it's mark on me.

I highly recommend this book to everyone, young and old! Check out more of my reviews. I feel a bit like a cold-hearted snob for giving this book two stars.

I am not saying that it isn't an uplifting story definitely worth being told (and read), but I can't deny that there were a few aspects I had problems with and that the story didn't trigger the emotional reaction I expected it to. Wonder is the story of August Pullman's first year at school. Auggie is a ten-year-old boy born with a facial anomaly that has required him to undergo countless operations and made him an outsider wit I feel a bit like a cold-hearted snob for giving this book two stars. I am not saying that it isn't an uplifting story definitely worth being told (and read), but I can't deny that there were a few aspects I had problems with and that the story didn't trigger the emotional reaction I expected it to. Wonder is the story of August Pullman's first year at school. Auggie is a ten-year-old boy born with a facial anomaly that has required him to undergo countless operations and made him an outsider with other kids his age.

This book is the story of him facing his fears of being stared at and excluded, of him growing up and of his family letting go. His story is told from six different perspectives. We have of course August himself, but also his older sister Via, her boyfriend Justin, her friend Miranda and Jack and Summer, two kids August befriends at school. Male and female perspectives, very young teens, older teens – yet their voices all sounded more or less the same to me.

Furthermore, I felt that some points of view didn’t really add to the story Funny enough, the voice that got to me the most wasn't August's but his sister Via's. Basically, she has lived in her little brother's shadow all her life. I found it rather sad to read her thoughts, how she always had to fend for herself when her little brother was the center of attention and how she sometimes hates herself for wanting to take that attention away from him. She really was the character I could identify with the most, and her voice definitely rang true to me. This doesn't mean I couldn't sympatise with August himself, too, but the four additional perspectives I could have easily done without. In general, the writing is kept simple, fitting and true to the ten-year-old responsible for most of the narration, but towards the end, the heavy use of the word 'dude' really got on my nerves.

It seemed to be for authenticity purposes, but it bordered on ridiculous (I know, this is the nitpicker in me coming out.) A very important role throughout the book play precepts August's English teacher, Mr Browne, presents his students at the beginning of every month. These precepts are often addressed in the story, and one of them, probably the one used to underline the overall message of the book, rubbed me the wrong way. It is the following quote by an American psychotherapist and author: 'When given the choice between being right or being kind, choose kind.' Wayne Dyer Now, don't get me wrong: being kind certainly isn’t a bad decision. But should I really value being kind over being right? Should I tell lies not to offend a person's feelings for example? Should I omit my own feelings in order to not hurt anyone else?

Tell me, where would this concept lead us? Towards a better world?

I somehow doubt it. In the end, when I recapitulate the whole book, there are simply too many 'toos' that come to my mind: the different voices were too similar, Auggie’s parents too good and too understanding, the 'villains' too evil, the ending too perfect, the overall tone a little too preachy. And I have one question: Do ten-year-old kids really date?! Thanks a lot to Random House and Netgalley for the review copy.

I hate reviewing books that I'm crazy about. I never can get across how wonderful they are. This is one of those books.

Sorry Christina. Words do hurt. The universe has not been kind to Auggie Pullman. He was born with facial deformities. He has had multiple surgeries but he still gets people stopping when they see him and ugly remarks made about him. He had been homeschooled up until the fifth grade due to his many recoveries from the surgeries and I think to protect him from other people.

His I hate reviewing books that I'm crazy about. I never can get across how wonderful they are. This is one of those books.

Sorry Christina. Words do hurt. The universe has not been kind to Auggie Pullman. He was born with facial deformities.

He has had multiple surgeries but he still gets people stopping when they see him and ugly remarks made about him. He had been homeschooled up until the fifth grade due to his many recoveries from the surgeries and I think to protect him from other people. His parents decide it would be better if he was exposed to people and he begins a private school.

Middle school. Middle school kids are the spawns of the devil. I have a 11 year old boy who is in the fifth grade.

He hates to read. I have no clue how I had a kid that hates books but go figure. I'm going to purchase this book and I'm going to read every single word of it to him. If I have to tie him down.

It would be pretty impossible to properly review this book without getting just a touch spoilery. I think I could actually sum up rather succinctly what it was that made this book only get three stars from me, and also what I'm sure will be many readers' deciding factor as to whether they will love it or not. Basically, you should love this novel if you like stories that end with this: [ 'It was one of those great June days when the sky is completely blue and the sun is shining but It would be pretty impossible to properly review this book without getting just a touch spoilery. I think I could actually sum up rather succinctly what it was that made this book only get three stars from me, and also what I'm sure will be many readers' deciding factor as to whether they will love it or not. Basically, you should love this novel if you like stories that end with this: [ 'It was one of those great June days when the sky is completely blue and the sun is shining but it isn't so hot that you wish you were on the beach instead.

It was just the perfect day. Everyone was happy. I still felt like I was floating, the Star Wars hero music in my head.' ] However, if you're looking for the slightly less spoilery version, you'll have to settle for me talking about the tone of this book instead.

Turn away now if you want to be completely surprised. This is a book about a boy - Auggie - who was born with a severe facial deformity and, despite years of surgery, is still left with a face that scares small children and shocks adults. He has been homeschooled his whole life, until one day when his parents decide attending middle school may be an important step towards Auggie gaining some kind of normality. He faces the stares, name-calling and ostracisation that come with being different in school - only a million times worse than normal. My biggest problem with this book is just how happy and uplifting it is.

I know that sounds terrible, but I wanted it to be grittier. Someone like Auggie must have so much emotional turmoil but I felt it was lost amongst the happily ever after-ness. It was too sweet, too nice, too unreal. It's like that moment when Neville Longbottom gets those ten kind-of undeserved house points that guarantee Gryffindor the house cup. Except it's far worse because Auggie's story is supposed to feel real, not like he lives in a magic castle and has just defeated a dark wizard. It was too perfect to believe in. There are bad guys in this book, sure there are, but only one of them remains unredeemed and he loses his popularity.

In other words: the good guys triumph and the bad guys get punished. I wasn't feeling it.

It seemed so unbelievable to me that the only person who doesn't get a happy ending is the evil kid. But three stars still means I liked it!

This book was an entertaining page-turner and I had no problems with the really young age of the narrators. Yes, narrator s, because the book switched between the point of view of Auggie, his sister - Via, Jack, Summer, Justin and Miranda. And by some miracle this actually worked! The only one I didn't enjoy reading was Justin's, I thought it was a bit of a waste of paper. Other than that, I liked reading about how Auggie's looks affected his relationships with the aforementioned. However, I still think some of the kids were nicer and more understanding than they would be in real life at their age. And one last thing, this book did bring tears to my eyes but it had nothing to do with Auggie - be prepared for one surprising and upsetting part that I wasn't expecting.

August Pullman burrowed under my skin and punched me in my tear ducts pretty early on in this book. Maybe it was his Star Wars obsession, or his sense of humor, or his general spirit that captured me but it was probably all three—and so much more.

As a kid with craniofacial abnormalities, he's heard it all, all the awful names kids (and adults) can come up with. He's seen all the horrified looks. Until this year, though, he'd never been to school. Wonder follows Auggie as he starts his year unti August Pullman burrowed under my skin and punched me in my tear ducts pretty early on in this book. Maybe it was his Star Wars obsession, or his sense of humor, or his general spirit that captured me but it was probably all three—and so much more. As a kid with craniofacial abnormalities, he's heard it all, all the awful names kids (and adults) can come up with. He's seen all the horrified looks.

Until this year, though, he'd never been to school. Wonder follows Auggie as he starts his year until he graduates from the fifth grade. The story is told from multiple viewpoints: Auggie, his sister, her boyfriend, her sister’s ex-best friend, and two of Auggie’s friends from school.

The technique worked for me in this case, as it was fascinating to see events from different perspectives and to feel what each character was feeling. I keep trying to decide which narrator I enjoyed hearing from the most but they each gave me something to think about: What it means to be comfortable, how much influence parents have on their children’s personalities, how taking one minute to do something for someone else can make all the difference. I sound like a motivational speaker right now. Treat everyone with kindness! Teach your kids to look beyond looks! Let’s all just take care of each other! Middle grade books are hit or miss for me.

I truly feel they must be some of the hardest books to write; children's books as well. Conveying messages to impressionable age groups while still telling an engaging and well-constructed story is a feat. I can see how some readers may view this book as heavy-handed or forcing moral values. I guess I just didn't see it. The book reads like what it is supposed to read like: A book about a young boy who is and manages to remain a wonderful and caring human being despite being subjected to numerous events that would make me want to go weep in my room. I think children are smart enough to know that not every child in Auggie's situation is surrounded with so many wonderful people.

They go to school. They know that other kids are not always nice, especially to anyone who deviates from whatever is 'normal' (if anything is normal).

If books for children always told the truth, far more kids in books would be picked up by sex traffickers, be in abusive households, and struggle with food insecurity. Believing that the universe will take care of everyone is a bit delusional - that is not the case. But teaching children to believe that good things can happen to everyone and that there are more kind than evil people in the world? I don't see the harm in that. There is a fine line between playing on the emotions of your readers and emotional manipulation. I’m not a big crier in books - I can only think of three or four books that have made me tear up at all - but I cried several times in this book.

(On a plane, no less!) I think there was only one segment of the book that felt overdone and that had to do with the family dog. And while I may or may not have snuggled with my dog after I read that section, I didn’t cry because I’m not sold on the necessity of that portion of the book. However, I will concede that the dog’s character provided the perfect vehicle to introduce discussions of blind love and souls/bodies and those were highlights for me. (Hearing Auggie's thoughts about maybe coming back as a handsome man broke my heart a little bit.) The only other thing that didn't work for me was the usage of song lyrics. Then again, I’ve never been the biggest Natalie Merchant fan.

I thought this book was wonderful (pun initially unintended but I'm leaving it in so I guess there is intent behind it now) and I absolutely recommend it to parents and teachers who would like to read something worthwhile and inspirational with children as well as to any readers who enjoy middle grade books. “I think there should be a rule that everyone in the world should get a standing ovation at least once in their lives.” A normal boy, with an unusual face, starting school for the first time in his life. August was born with facial abnormalities, went through lots of operations, but his face still looks far from normal. Now he's about to start middle school, and because he's been homeschooled by his mom ever since, he's both scared and excited. It's Amazing. While sometimes sad and shocki “I think there should be a rule that everyone in the world should get a standing ovation at least once in their lives.” A normal boy, with an unusual face, starting school for the first time in his life. August was born with facial abnormalities, went through lots of operations, but his face still looks far from normal.

Now he's about to start middle school, and because he's been homeschooled by his mom ever since, he's both scared and excited. It's Amazing. While sometimes sad and shocking, the happy definitely overshadows the sad.

I admit to shedding more than a few tears. But don't tell anyone. The greatest thing about this book - in my opinion - is that there are so many perspectives to one story. While August is clearly the main character, lots of people get their fair share of pages, and I am so, so glad for it. This beautiful novel is not only about acceptance, tolerance and kindness. It teaches so many lessons. More than just once I stopped reading and thought, Yes, that is exactly how I feel, that is precisely what I think.

Palacio touches so many topics through her variety of characters. Poverty, death, relationships and more The only thing I have left to say is that, from now on, I will try to be kinder than necessary. Wonder is one of those books that just makes me want to say.

'I wish every day could be Halloween. We could all wear masks all the time. Then we could walk around and get to know each other before we got to see what we looked like under the masks.'

We've all been bullied before. Criticized or cast aside because of how we talk, what we wear, or who we hang out with. But I doubt that many of us have experienced anything like what August Pullman went through. Ten-year-old Auggie Yes. Wonder is one of those books that just makes me want to say. 'I wish every day could be Halloween.

We could all wear masks all the time. Then we could walk around and get to know each other before we got to see what we looked like under the masks.'

We've all been bullied before. Criticized or cast aside because of how we talk, what we wear, or who we hang out with. But I doubt that many of us have experienced anything like what August Pullman went through.

Ten-year-old Auggie was born with a severe facial deformity, and despite his shining personality, is plunged into a world with people who cannot see past his appearance. Wonder details Auggie's journey into the fifth grade, and serves as a stark and honest portrayal of the problems with being different. I wish every fifth grader read this book. After reading, I bought this book for my ten-year-old cousin as a birthday gift, before reading it myself. Wonder is probably the best gift I have given my cousin yet. Auggie was an absolutely amazing protagonist.

Palachio carves his character with the utmost precision, creating a sympathetic and strong ten-year-old who readers cannot help but cheer for. He has his whiny moments, like every little kid, but the ordeals he's forced to overcome grant him a giant heart, too. I wanted to give him and all of his friends hugs (which, coming from an adolescent male, may sound strange) and beat up give a stern talk to everyone who was mean to him. The plot worked wonders as well. Though the story is mainly told through Auggie's point of view, there are also five other perspectives readers get to see the story through. Each voice contributed something superb to the development of the plot and to the fleshing out of Auggie's personality and life experiences. There was never a dull moment, and I always wanted to know what would happen next.

I cannot laud Wonder enough. There were several small things that made me love the book, like how Auggie's parents tried to provide him with the best life possible, and how his older sister, Olivia, was in a high school relationship that didn't involve drugs or sex.

When I read Summer's perspective, I thought to myself, why can't every little girl be this spectacular? Browne's precepts, Jack Will, Miranda, Justin, Daisy, and even Julian, all played a part in making this book what it was. I want to end my review by thanking R.J. Palacio for writing what will be my birthday gift to every little kid I see for a long time. This is a book I want my kids to read, my cousins to read, and even for my teachers' kids to read. Heck, everyone should read this. It is a life lesson about kindness, compassion, and human connection.

It is a testament to the strength we all have within us, not only to withstand the pain of stinging words, but to take a stand for what we believe is right. *review cross-posted on my blog,. This book is wonderful. I am very glad to have read this novel. I started reading this out loud to my daughter, but she wasn't having it. I plan to read this to her when she is older, because of her father.

Story time: Once upon a time there was this man named Lance Corporal Cracknell. His platoon or battalion (not sure which it was) was stationed out in Afghanistan and they were doing their daily hump. While walking, third in line, he steps on an explosive.

Luckily, he didn't die, becaus This book is wonderful. I am very glad to have read this novel. I started reading this out loud to my daughter, but she wasn't having it. I plan to read this to her when she is older, because of her father. Story time: Once upon a time there was this man named Lance Corporal Cracknell. His platoon or battalion (not sure which it was) was stationed out in Afghanistan and they were doing their daily hump.

While walking, third in line, he steps on an explosive. Luckily, he didn't die, because the bomb partiality detonated. But he was injured and is now, again luckily, only a below the knee amputee. Side note: he is really cool about the leg injury.

Don't worry about it. He has a nickname for his nub and says it is from a shark bite. Who knew he could be so clever when he doesn't bother me while reading. This is how I sort of relate to this novel. I felt sort of in Via's shoes. Always spotting people who look at my husband. His prosthetic has an middle finger sticker on it, but that is besides the point.

Everyone stares. He tries or maybe he is oblivious to it now, but I notice. Little kids point and ask their parents about it all the time. It is pretty funny. I treat him as I would treat anyone else, even when he plays the pity game. I might be a little bit meaner.

He is ordinary. A lot of people think he is extraordinary, because he does everything a two legged person would do. Like I said he is ordinary. So, Wonder is about a August who has a genetic anomaly, which caused his face to be underdeveloped in the womb.

August goes through multiple surgeries to help him survive, thank goodness, but his face isn't what we call 'normal'. (I will talk about that later and I will definitely rant and rave about it. Sorry, not sorry.) During his 5th grade year he attends a private school and that is where I leave off for you to read for yourself.

I think all young kids should read this novel, because 1) teaches sympathy, 2) Stop bullying for someone who doesn't look or act the same, 3) Appreciate others, 4) Anyone and everyone has problems (either big or small) who needs a helping hand, an act of kindness to get through the day, and 5) the world is cruel and not everyone is going to accept who you are at times, but there are plenty of people who will be behind you. Those are the messages I found in the book. This is where I am going to rant and rave about the word 'normal' and beauty. Our society has this ideal image of what beautiful is. If you don't act, dress, and look a certain way you are not beautiful.

Someone explain to me then why do we all look different? No one looks that certain way. I definitely don't. How can anyone find me beautiful. Baffles me that we can call someone ugly, because everyone is beautiful no matter what you wear or look like. So, this normal thing what is normal anyways.

Again everyone is different. Everyone has different genes (besides identical twins). No one is normal. The only normality is that we are all homo sapiens. We shouldn't be judging people, because they don't look the same. We should be finding common ground, looking into their personalities to see if we click internally. How can we judge if someone is a good fit by looking at physical features?

I hate how cruel our world is and how we can only look at physical features. You can be the cutest/hottest/sexiest person in the world, but have the ugliest personality. Therefore turning you into someone I just don't get along with. I also felt relatable to the parents in this book. I want to shield my daughter from the mean people in the world, like how August's parents want to protect him from cruel words and bullying.

No one should be bullied for what they look like. But, I too want to strengthen my daughter for the cruel outside world. You can only do that with experience. Throwing them to the lions and helping them cope. Therefore, I understand how the parents felt torn apart by how to protect August the best way.

Okay, my daughter is going to be two. Granted, there isn't much experience, but she is really shy. I try to throw her in social situations. Also, if there are mean parents while she is growing up. I will scream at someone.

So, I cried in the beginning of the book due to sadness and worry. I cried at the end of the book because I was happy. I loved the characters.

Must read for all. I might add more to this review, but it is getting late and I am sleepy. Take aways: Be kind to everyone. Stop the hate. My precept: If you fall, just dust the dirt off and jump back on. This was something special.

I’ve seen this book on Instagram for so long and I usually shy away from titles this overhyped, but the hype was right for once! WONDER is the story August Pullman (or Auggie), a little boy facing a rare disease that causes facial deformity and his Journey through school and life in general.

Is also the story of the people around him and of their way of living with Auggie and that is probably what makes it so heartfelt. WONDER is also a work to learn from. I feel its pur This was something special. I’ve seen this book on Instagram for so long and I usually shy away from titles this overhyped, but the hype was right for once! WONDER is the story August Pullman (or Auggie), a little boy facing a rare disease that causes facial deformity and his Journey through school and life in general. Is also the story of the people around him and of their way of living with Auggie and that is probably what makes it so heartfelt. WONDER is also a work to learn from.

I feel its purpose, beyond entertaining us readers, was to make people realize once again that they shouldn’t judge based on the cover. And that is a universal message. Maybe the book was written for a younger audience, but I don’t think anyone that read it could say it isn’t mature enough.

There are points in the story which felt so rewarding that I actually clapped, as stupid as that may sound. The ending is such a point, but I won’t spoil it here.

There were also points where the narrative flow felt a tiny bit disjointed and that, I think, is my only complaint. Overall, I strongly recommend this, especially for younger readers. As I said, there are important lessons to be learned here. I went in expecting sadness, misery, bleakness, joylessness, in the book. I can understand the popularity of the book. I got caught unawares.

This is a book that can be recommended to everybody. There is a lot of joie de vivre present. This love of life is imbued in the short and fragile chapters of the book. There is a lesson present in most chapters, but I chose to read it as a thriller, instead of a fable. I really dreaded something horrible would happen to August.

Instead we get a light-toned I went in expecting sadness, misery, bleakness, joylessness, in the book. I can understand the popularity of the book. I got caught unawares. This is a book that can be recommended to everybody. There is a lot of joie de vivre present. This love of life is imbued in the short and fragile chapters of the book. There is a lesson present in most chapters, but I chose to read it as a thriller, instead of a fable.

I really dreaded something horrible would happen to August. Instead we get a light-toned book that asks us to like it unconditionally.

There is no need for suspending one's disbelief, no need to get pedantic. The multiple narrators don't matter since the focus is only on August. I raise my glass up, and say:'To August, the boy who lived!' 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 5 Wonder stars 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 🌟Recommended for all ages and lovers of Young Adult🌟 🌞🌞🌞🌞🌞🌞🌞🌞🌞 Doctors have come from distant cities just to see me stand over my bed disbelieving what they’re seeing They say I must be one of the wonders of god’s own creation and as far as they can see they can offer no explanation — NATALIE MERCHANT, “Wonder' 🌞🌞🌞🌞🌞🌞🌞🌞 ORDINARY! I know I’m not an ordinary ten-year-old kid.

I mean, sure, I do ordinary things. I eat ice cream. I ride my bike. I have an XBox. Stuff 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 5 Wonder stars 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 🌟Recommended for all ages and lovers of Young Adult🌟 🌞🌞🌞🌞🌞🌞🌞🌞🌞 Doctors have come from distant cities just to see me stand over my bed disbelieving what they’re seeing They say I must be one of the wonders of god’s own creation and as far as they can see they can offer no explanation — NATALIE MERCHANT, “Wonder' 🌞🌞🌞🌞🌞🌞🌞🌞 ORDINARY! I know I’m not an ordinary ten-year-old kid. I mean, sure, I do ordinary things.

I eat ice cream. I ride my bike. I have an XBox. Stuff like that makes me ordinary. And I feel ordinary. But I know ordinary kids don’t make other ordinary kids run away screaming in playgrounds. I know ordinary kids don’t get stared at wherever they go.

If I found a magic lamp and I could have one wish, I would wish that I had a normal face that no one ever noticed at all My name is August, by the way. I won’t describe what I look like. Whatever you’re thinking, it’s probably worse 🌞🌞🌞🌞🌞🌞🌞🌞 My heart is so sore after reading this book, and although I said I will not read Bully books again or review them it seems I always do 😕, The only thing I kept on thinking while reading this is 'beauty is in the eye of the beholder'! Have you ever met a beautiful person and in the end their personality is so ugly that you cannot even remember why you thought they were beautiful in the first place. The same can be said about a person that is maybe ugly on face value, when you meet them, but in the end when you get to know them, they are some of the most beautiful people you ever met because of their personalities. I always say *beauty shines out of people* OR *you do not need to be beautiful to be beautiful* Anyhow - this is beautiful and I will recommend to parents with young kids to read as well!

🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 To the Author: Standing ovation & Thank You I know as a mother how difficult it can be to explain to our kids about people being and looking different than us, and this book will help me I think doing it in the future. 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 This is also a movie being released later this year and I look forward in watching it now! 🌺🌺🌺🌺🌺🌺 Thanks Tricia for the recommendation😘😘. Ten-year-old August (Auggie) Pullman was born with a rare facial deformity.

He’s had twenty-seven surgeries on his face and has always been homeschooled – until now. This year, Auggie is being mainstreamed and will enter fifth grade at Beecher Prep. Fitting in is hard enough when you’re the new kid, but Auggie will have to work extra hard to get his classmates to look past his extraordinary face.

If I found a magic lamp and I could have one wish, I would wish that I had a normal face that no one Ten-year-old August (Auggie) Pullman was born with a rare facial deformity. He’s had twenty-seven surgeries on his face and has always been homeschooled – until now. This year, Auggie is being mainstreamed and will enter fifth grade at Beecher Prep. Fitting in is hard enough when you’re the new kid, but Auggie will have to work extra hard to get his classmates to look past his extraordinary face. If I found a magic lamp and I could have one wish, I would wish that I had a normal face that no one ever noticed at all. I would wish that I could walk down the street without people seeing me and then doing that look-away thing.

Here’s what I think: the only reason I’m not ordinary is that no one else sees me that way. Wonder is overflowing with valuable messages for young readers: the importance of kindness, the value of empathy, the strength of friendship, the benefits of loyalty and courage, the ramifications of our actions, and that beauty is found on the inside.

The story is told from the perspective of five different characters. Auggie is a courageous little boy who responds to other peoples’ negative reactions to his face by taking it all in stride.

Via is Auggie’s older sister who loves her brother but, for most of her life, has felt neglected by her parents who must devote their attention to Auggie. Jack is Via’s boyfriend, and he admits that it’s hard not to “ sneak a second look” whenever he sees Auggie.

Miranda used to be Via’s best friend, before she started dying her hair pink and wearing makeup, but she’s always loved Auggie like a brother. Summer attends school with Auggie and sees that he’s “ just a kid.

The weirdest-looking kid [she’s] ever seen, yes. But just a kid.” And Justin can still remember the first time he saw Auggie, so he’s not happy when the principal of Beecher School selects him to show Auggie around. Aside from Justin’s chapters, which don’t use any capital letters, the appearance and narrative voices of the remaining characters all look and sound the same. Nonetheless, telling the story from multiple perspectives allows for another important message for young readers: people often appear fine on the surface but may be struggling internally and so deserve our kindness and consideration at all times. Unfortunately, conveying the story from multiple perspectives also results in a fair amount of needless repetition. Wonder is an acclaimed, highly praised novel.

Perhaps that’s the reason expectations were high while reading this book, and that may have something to do with reaching the book’s conclusion and feeling underwhelmed. It’s a good read and, more importantly, it’s a useful book for instilling good values in young readers, but it’s difficult not to wonder how this book became quite so popular.

My former high school librarian recommended this book to me when it came out. I should have read it then. Always trust a librarian. This is an impossible book to dislike. It’s so full of human emotions – kindness, love, courage, determination, fear – and so full of beautiful messages. August Pullman is a wonderful boy. Not retarded.

He functions normally and is pretty smart. But he is facially deformed, which makes it psychologically challenging for him to go out, let alone attend school.

But his My former high school librarian recommended this book to me when it came out. I should have read it then.

Always trust a librarian. This is an impossible book to dislike. It’s so full of human emotions – kindness, love, courage, determination, fear – and so full of beautiful messages. August Pullman is a wonderful boy. Not retarded.

He functions normally and is pretty smart. But he is facially deformed, which makes it psychologically challenging for him to go out, let alone attend school. But his mom thinks it’s time for him to stop being homeschooled. At school, he makes friends who help him feel like he belongs and enemies who remind him that he will never be a normal kid.

Auggie wishes to show people that there is more to him than his appearance, but not everyone is receptive. Told from various point of views in a very truthful and heartfelt manner, this story celebrates differences and proves that the human being is more good than bad. .

I’ve been meaning to read this book for a while. I recently saw the movie, which I thought was so well done, but I wish I had read the book first.

Even though the movie was pretty true to the book with a few minor differences, the problem with seeing the movie first is that as I read the book I saw the actors rather than imagining them as the author wrote them. Because the movie was so true to the book, I almost felt at times as if I’d already read it. Having said that, I’m still very glad I re I’ve been meaning to read this book for a while. I recently saw the movie, which I thought was so well done, but I wish I had read the book first.

Even though the movie was pretty true to the book with a few minor differences, the problem with seeing the movie first is that as I read the book I saw the actors rather than imagining them as the author wrote them. Because the movie was so true to the book, I almost felt at times as if I’d already read it. Having said that, I’m still very glad I read it.

I have an affinity towards child narrators who are almost always precocious and know so much more than the adults around them. It was inevitable from the first sentence that I would love ten year old August Pullman. He’s smart and funny and perceptive and has a genetic condition that caused cranio-facial abnormalities and even after 27 surgeries in his young life, he’ll never look like everyone else. While he has been stared at and ridiculed, Auggie has been quite protected by his loving family. The stares and the ridicule and the bullying get pushed to another level, as Auggie sets out for school for the first time in his life when his parents opt for middle school over home schooling. This is by its very nature a story with a message aimed at children and young adults, but it is an important story that I would recommend to people of all ages.

The narrative structure packs a punch. We not only get Auggie‘ point of view but we see Auggie through the eyes of his sister Via, his friends Jack and Summer as well as Via’s boyfriend Justin and her best friend Miranda. Next to Auggie, I was most touched by his sister Via’s narrative telling us how alone she has felt, how independent she had to be to because all of her parents energy and attention went to August. I’m not going to go into any detail about Auggie’s journey through his first year of middle school. It’s one you should discover for yourself. Although, Palacio’s initial inspiration for this story was a little girl she saw outside an ice cream shop, this is a work of fiction.

It’s a sad and uplifting story and I wish I could be less skeptical that things will be better for all children who are different, who are bullied. If you have young children, give them this book to read or at the very least take them to see the movie. They just might learn an enormously important life lesson that could make things better. “Everyone in the world should get a standing ovation at least once in their lives because we all overcometh the world.” -Auggie Pullman August Pullman or “Auggie” is a young boy most unlike any normal kid.

There is no easy way to say it. He was born with facial abnormality. Auggie said it himself in the beginning of the story.

It’s hard to describe what he looks like because it’s probably worse than whatever we might be thinking. Auggie has won my heart right there at the first page of the b “Everyone in the world should get a standing ovation at least once in their lives because we all overcometh the world.” -Auggie Pullman August Pullman or “Auggie” is a young boy most unlike any normal kid. There is no easy way to say it.

He was born with facial abnormality. Auggie said it himself in the beginning of the story. It’s hard to describe what he looks like because it’s probably worse than whatever we might be thinking. Auggie has won my heart right there at the first page of the book. The things this young boy had to endure-the name calling, people’s constant fear, rejection and alienation and not to mention, his physiological difficulties like trouble in hearing, eating and even talking and the dozens of surgeries he has undergone. He is no doubt the bravest young character I have met to be so sport about his condition that he would even make up jokes about what he looks like. Funny, cool, adorable kid.

A certified wonder kid. You are going to adore him. The plot of the story mainly revolves around Auggie’s fifth grade experience as this is his first time to go to school being homeschooled the rest of his previous years. Sounds simple? For a boy like Auggie, nothing in life will ever be simple. This story is one that will completely captivate your heart and challenge your perceptions.

By far, one of the most meaningful stories I have read my entire life. Most genuinely written in different narrative voices, the reader will get pulled to each of the characters as if the voice is directly talking to the reader. This is one book that will make you craugh (cry and laugh at the same time) the entire time you are reading and one that will make you pause to grab a pen and a notebook to write all the amazing thoughts spread in every page of the book. The story reads like a diary and somehow, it kind of reads like the especially with the old moldy cheese reference. This reference made me craugh big time. I thought this would be a really heavy read and that’s partly the reason I’ve been putting this on hold but I guarantee you, after reading this book, your soul will be lifted and your view of humanity will lighten up a bit. “There are always going to be jerks in the worldbut there are more good people on earth than bad people and the good people watch out for each other and take care of each other.

I recommend everyone to read this because I’d like for you to meet Auggie and his wonderful parents, including his awesome sister Olivia, her cool boyfriend, Justin, her friend Miranda, Summer (a girl who loves unicorns and you gotta love any girl who loves unicorns), Jack Will (I have so much love for this boy), Daisy the best dog in the world (sniffs), Mr. Tushman (the best school director in the whole wide world), Mr.

Browne and his monthly precepts, and even Amos, Miles and Henry. These people are amazing and so is this story.

Thanks to, and who goaded me more to read the book. Take a look at their reviews by clicking on their names.^^. On sale: ->$2.50 normally $7.99 8/11/2014 WONDER is a story of a 5th grade boy whose face is deformed. Fifth grade is hard enough but when you look different it is even harder.

August (Auggie) has been homeschooled his whole life and now that he is entering 5th grade his parents think it's time for him to attend a private school. He's nervous because he doesn't look everyone else and when people see his face they cringe. 'Let's face it, the universe was not kind to Auggie On sale: ->$2.50 normally $7.99 8/11/2014 WONDER is a story of a 5th grade boy whose face is deformed. Fifth grade is hard enough but when you look different it is even harder. August (Auggie) has been homeschooled his whole life and now that he is entering 5th grade his parents think it's time for him to attend a private school. He's nervous because he doesn't look everyone else and when people see his face they cringe.

'Let's face it, the universe was not kind to Auggie Pullman.' WONDER is told in several POVs (all children's). Reading about Auggie's life from all these different vantage points made the story have a lot of heart. The short chapters made the book flow nicely. Even though this is a young adult book it has a message for every age group - 'If you act a little kinder than is necessary, someone else, somewhere, someday, may recognize in you, in every single one of you, the face of God.' WONDER is the kid version of.

It pulled at my mom heartstrings, it made me laugh and most importantly it reminded me to - Choose to be kind. READ THIS BOOK. Share it with the young adults and kids in your life. Never let a teaching moment pass you. These are the qualities that define us as human beings, and propels us, on occasion, to greatness.' Auggie - 'You can't blend in when you were born to stand out.' 4.7 stars Blurb: August Pullman wants to be an ordinary ten-year-old.

He does ordinary things. He eats ice cream. He plays on his Xbox. He feels ordinary - inside. But Auggie is far from ordinary. Ordinary kids don't make other ordinary kids run away screaming in playgrounds.

Ordinary kids don't get stared at wherever they go. Born with a terrible facial abnormality, Auggie has been home-schooled by his parents his whole life, in an attempt to protect him from the cruelty of the outside world. No 4.7 stars Blurb: August Pullman wants to be an ordinary ten-year-old. He does ordinary things. He eats ice cream. He plays on his Xbox.

He feels ordinary - inside. But Auggie is far from ordinary. Ordinary kids don't make other ordinary kids run away screaming in playgrounds. Ordinary kids don't get stared at wherever they go. Born with a terrible facial abnormality, Auggie has been home-schooled by his parents his whole life, in an attempt to protect him from the cruelty of the outside world. Now, for the first time, he's being sent to a real school - and he's dreading it. All he wants is to be accepted - but can he convince his new classmates that he's just like them, underneath it all?

This book is considered a children’s book and, even when I usually like them, I hadn’t been able to pick this book up for a while. The time came, you know, and I’m so damn happy I read this wonderful story. Through the book we have different POV’s and all of them work beautifully. First we have Auggie’s and we’re told about his family and the struggles of being in a school for the very first time, since he was homeschooled.

Gosh, Auggie is such a peculiar kid, not by his looks but because he’s so so awesome and darn smart and how he noticed things around him. What he’s gone through has made him a remarkable boy. I also appreciated the simplistic writing, it wasn’t pretentious and I can totally picture my little cousins reading this book and actually understanding everything. We have his sister’s, Via, POV’s and she was a really interesting view. Here we have this girl who loves his little brother and wants to protect him and help him and be there for him anytime he needs her but we also see how badly she wants her parents to pay more attention to her and her problems and that’s normal and right. So yeah, Via was quite great to read. Also, as we go through the story and POV’s we can have a some sort of “solid” idea of what Auggie looks like but at the end of the day, that’s not relevant at all.

I really love how each character was different and how they all have their own story and struggles. Man, you just gotta love their dynamic. I enjoyed all the POV’s but I found Julian’s to be a particular powerful one and I want to know more and more about him. Thankfully, I think there’s a book about him so fuck yes. There were to quotes that stuck with me, though. “What’s cool about really little kids is that they don’t say stuff to try to hurt your feelings, even though sometimes they do say stuff that hurts your feelings. But they don’t actually know what they’re saying.

Big kids, though: they know what they’re saying.” And “Kinder than is necessary. Because it's not enough to be kind. One should be kinder than needed.” Look, kids can be cruel, I know that first hand and there’s no excuse for that. Parents, adults, people in general must address this as it is.

There’s no kids are just kids. There’s absolutely no excuse to be mean to anyone and the sooner people get it and teach kids to stop being little assholes, the sooner things will get better. Because, let’s be honest here: this world is as shitty as people want it to be and we all need to be kinder and start caring about people enough to offer a smile and be sure they won’t make a huge deal out of it. Just be nice to everyone because we’re all living in this shitty world and we should make it less shitty.

Anyhow, back to the story. I’m going to get a few copies and give them to my little cousins because they really need to read this book and learn from it. Palacio lives in NYC with her husband, two sons, and two dogs. For more than twenty years, she was an art director and graphic designer, designing book jackets for other people while waiting for the perfect time in her life to start writing her own novel.

But one day several years ago, a chance encounter with an extraordinary child in front of an ice cream store made R. Realize that the pe R.J. Palacio lives in NYC with her husband, two sons, and two dogs. For more than twenty years, she was an art director and graphic designer, designing book jackets for other people while waiting for the perfect time in her life to start writing her own novel.

But one day several years ago, a chance encounter with an extraordinary child in front of an ice cream store made R. Realize that the perfect time to write that novel had finally come. Wonder is her first novel. She did not design the cover, but she sure does love it. Palacio is a pseudonym of: Raquel Jaramillo.

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