Book Review: 'Wonder' by R.J. Palacio

Wonder by R.J. Palacio

Title: Wonder
Author: R.J. Palacio  (Website)  (Wonder Facebook)
Age Group: Children's
Release Date: February 14, 2012
Pages: 320
Publisher: Knopf Books for Young Readers

It's a great wonder how I put off reading this book for so long!  Between the realistic characters and situations this book was both emotional and eye-opening.  I shed my fair share of tears during several parts and would not mind shedding them again during a re-read of this great book.

August (Auggie) is a strong, likable character that I think anyone can relate to, physical differences or not.  Everyone has some awkward or embarrassing "something" and through Auggie's story he shows that looking different is okay and he is like everyone else.  Palacio depicts some awful, yet truthful, realities of what those with "differences" go through on a daily basis, especially to young people.  The looks, comments, and bullying are very reminiscent of what I witnessed myself when I was in fifth grade and I really felt the pain August went through.  Through Auggie's perseverance and positive choices he shows that the only ones who are "different" are those who are not kind to others.    

Despite this book being geared toward the younger reader set, I would recommend it for all ages.  The main themes of finding acceptance for being yourself and bullying transcend the juvenile age group and are very relevant today.  Many instances struck a chord with me and reminded me of the hard times growing up.  I think if I had read this book when I was younger I would have been a lot more confident in being myself instead of trying to hide and not draw any attention to myself.  I would argue that this book can give many young people advice of how to handle tough situations, like bullies, and it shows that good things do come out of the bad.  The most important lessons I think this book portrays are: 1) you should be brave and strong despite whatever tough situation you may be in and 2) even though some people may look different from you they are probably some of the nicest people around and extending yourself to be their friend is one of the nicest things you can do. 

I absolutely loved this book and hope that R.J. Palacio does a follow-up at some point...possibly when August gets to high school? (*hint hint*) :)