Wonder is defined by the Oxford dictionary as “the feeling of surprise mingled with admiration, caused by something beautiful, unexpected, unfamiliar, or inexplicable.” Wonder by R.J. Palacio manages to convey this exact feeling. When Wonder was originally published in 2012, Palacio would never expect the movement her book would ensue. Her book inspired acceptance, kindness, and giving others a space to feel welcome, no matter their differences. Now, she has sold over 15 million copies worldwide, and the book has been translated into over 50 languages.
I was in the third grade when I first laid my eyes on the book. Interested by the book’s unique cover, and its captivating blue background, I checked it out from my elementary school’s library and took it home with me. The very first sentence — “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 play ball. I have an XBox. Stuff like that makes me ordinary. I guess. And I feel ordinary. Inside” — would linger in my mind for a week after reading it.
Auggie Pullman, who has undergone numerous surgeries due to his condition, has been homeschooled by his mother. He was born with a facial difference, referred to as mandibulofacial dysostosis, or Treacher Collins syndrome, a rare disorder that causes facial malformations, affecting the development of facial features in children. Due to this condition, Auggie has had multiple surgeries which deter his ability to attend school continuously. The story begins as he prepares to attend Beecher Prep, a mainstream school, for the first time as a fifth-grader. Auggie is apprehensive about how other children will react to his appearance.
The formatting of the book is told from multiple different perspectives in Auggie’s life. Via (his older sister), Summer (a friendly peer), Jack (a friend who at times is morally gray), Miranda (his sister’s best friend), and Justin (Miranda’s boyfriend). At the young age of 9 years old, this was my first experience of seeing different perspectives used to build a story, and I was incredibly intrigued. I vividly remember sitting on my couch in my old apartment, on a warm weekend day, and I just couldn’t bring myself to put the book down. I had both empathy and concern for Auggie. Still, as a young girl, I hadn’t experienced much of the idea of viewing the world from different perspectives in a fictional novel, and this book broadened my horizons.
Palacio found the perfect balance between compassion and humility through this book. It transcends the saying “be kind,” and instead, actually moves the reader to understand how to be kind, and more importantly, forgiving. The strength that Auggie has developed by fifth grade is something we all must consider in our lives as growing people. At times, although I would feel resentful towards Julian, the main antagonist and bully of the story, I would be reminded that he was also a child navigating his own world and issues. Although his actions are not justified, he himself is a very complex character. Palacio is able to remind readers of his humanity.
The Perspectives
The novel shifts perspectives, offering insights from different characters. This technique deepens the reader’s understanding of each character’s internal struggles and growth.
Via, Auggie’s older sister, loves him dearly but struggles with her own feelings of neglect, as her family’s focus is often on Auggie. She navigates her own social challenges in high school while grappling with her identity and the impact of Auggie’s condition on her life.
Jack initially befriends Auggie under the guidance of their principal, Mr. Tushman. However, he grows to genuinely care for Auggie. A pivotal moment occurs when Jack unintentionally insults Auggie, leading to a rift between them. Jack’s journey to redemption highlights themes of forgiveness and understanding. Jack finds himself in his own internal conflict. He struggles with choosing between what is right, and redeeming his friendship with someone he cares about, or choosing to befriend the more “sought-after” group of friends in the school.
Summer befriends Auggie out of genuine kindness and compassion. Her friendship with him demonstrates the power of standing up against peer pressure and societal norms.
Auggie’s transition to school is challenging. He faces stares, whispers, and outright bullying from some students. However, he also finds kindness in unexpected places. In the end, his classmates Summer and Jack become his friends, standing by him despite the social risks.
Auggie faces significant bullying, particularly from a student named Julian and his followers. Despite these challenges, Auggie’s courage and resilience shine through. The school community’s eventual shift in attitude towards Auggie illustrates the impact of empathy and kindness.
Later in the middle of the book, Auggie’s class goes on a nature retreat, a turning point in the novel. During the trip, Auggie and Jack are confronted by older students from another school who taunt Auggie for his hearing aid and for his facial differences. This leads into a fight between them until Henry, Amos, and Miles, who were also boys from Beecher Prep, confront the other boys and try to tell them off. The Beecher Prep group ends up running away from the campsite and realize that they are far. On the way home, everyone stays concerned for Auggie, and they comfort him. This shows a shift among the characters. Amos, Henry, and Miles were Julian’s friends who also had originally taunted Auggie, but through this event, they supported him and helped him get up. Although incredibly hurt, Auggie continues to persist and stay resilient in the face of conflict. Through this conflict, he realizes all the support that he truly has.
The school year ends with a graduation ceremony, where Auggie is awarded the Henry Ward Beecher Medal for courage, kindness, and friendship. Auggie receives a standing ovation and this moment signifies the acceptance and respect he has earned from his peers. The novel concludes on a hopeful note, with Auggie feeling more confident and embraced by his community. Leaving his first year at public school more supported than he entered.
Wonder tackles the issue of bullying head-on, portraying its detrimental effects on individuals and the broader community. By presenting bullying from multiple perspectives — both the victim’s and the perpetrator’s — the book fosters a nuanced understanding of the issue. It shows the pain and isolation that bullying can cause, while also offering hope and strategies for overcoming such challenges.
The novel champions the idea of acceptance and inclusion. Auggie’s journey to find his place in a new school environment mirrors the universal quest for belonging. This theme resonates with anyone who has ever felt like an outsider, making the book relatable to a wide audience. Palacio’s portrayal of a community that learns to embrace diversity is both uplifting and inspiring.
The multi-perspective format also contributes to the development of well-rounded characters. Each narrator offers insight into their personal struggles, growth, and the ways in which their interactions with Auggie shape their lives. This deep character development makes the story more engaging and allows readers to connect with each character on a personal level. Wonder excels in evoking genuine emotions. Palacio’s writing captures the fears, joys, and challenges of childhood with authenticity and sensitivity. Readers are drawn into Auggie’s emotional world, experiencing his highs and lows alongside him. This emotional resonance makes the book not only compelling but also memorable.
Auggie’s resilience in the face of adversity is a central aspect of the novel’s emotional appeal. His courage and determination to overcome obstacles serve as an inspiration to readers. The book encourages a positive mindset and the belief that one can triumph over difficulties with perseverance and support from loved ones.
The novel has had a significant impact on promoting positive behavior and social change. It has inspired various “Choose Kind” movements and initiatives in schools and communities, encouraging people to commit to acts of kindness. This real-world impact is a testament to the book’s power and influence.
If there is one takeaway from reading this article, Be Kind.
The novel champions the idea of acceptance and inclusion. Auggie’s journey to find his place in a new school environment mirrors the universal quest for belonging. This theme resonates with anyone who has ever felt like an outsider, making the book relatable to a wide audience. Palacio’s portrayal of a community that learns to embrace diversity is both uplifting and inspiring.