Wonder by R.J. Palacio
August Pullman is a normal kid with an abnormal face. He was born with severe birth defects that kept him from attending regular school, but when this book begins Auggie is healthy and ready to start 5th grade at Beecher Prep. He is as nervous as any kid would be on their first day of school, only Auggie knows his unusual face will set him apart from every other kid he meets, and not necessarily in a good way.
I knew I would like this book at the end of the first chapter when Auggie said, "I won't describe what I look like. Whatever you're thinking, it's probably worse." I knew I would love this book when suddenly Auggie's turn to talk was over and different characters got to tell their own versions of events. Over and over, this book kept surprising me with its warmth, humor, and drama. Every character felt real enough to touch.
The strongest aspect of Wonder is the way first-time author R.J. Palacio weaved multiple perspectives into Auggie's story, really driving home the sense that this story isn't just about one extraordinary boy--it's about how a community can be changed by unique circumstances. Please excuse the pun, but I have to say this is a truly wonderful offering about family, friendship, and the importance of looking beyond appearances. In my book, it's a must-read for ages 8 and up.
Rating: 5 out of 5
To recommend other titles to the committee, please email newberysuggestions@kcls.org .
August Pullman is a normal kid with an abnormal face. He was born with severe birth defects that kept him from attending regular school, but when this book begins Auggie is healthy and ready to start 5th grade at Beecher Prep. He is as nervous as any kid would be on their first day of school, only Auggie knows his unusual face will set him apart from every other kid he meets, and not necessarily in a good way.
I knew I would like this book at the end of the first chapter when Auggie said, "I won't describe what I look like. Whatever you're thinking, it's probably worse." I knew I would love this book when suddenly Auggie's turn to talk was over and different characters got to tell their own versions of events. Over and over, this book kept surprising me with its warmth, humor, and drama. Every character felt real enough to touch.
The strongest aspect of Wonder is the way first-time author R.J. Palacio weaved multiple perspectives into Auggie's story, really driving home the sense that this story isn't just about one extraordinary boy--it's about how a community can be changed by unique circumstances. Please excuse the pun, but I have to say this is a truly wonderful offering about family, friendship, and the importance of looking beyond appearances. In my book, it's a must-read for ages 8 and up.
Rating: 5 out of 5
To recommend other titles to the committee, please email newberysuggestions@kcls.org .
Deb @ Woodmont:
I agree with Destinee that part of what makes this title so strong is the way the author skillfully writes from a variety of persepctives. While I would argue that the most fleshed out characters are Auggie and his sister, even minor characters' perspectives rang true in their brief appearances (most notably her boyfriend, as well as her former best friend).
I must say, the very last chapter felt the tiniest bit schmaltzy. The author had done such a fantastic job throughout the book of showing both Auggie's and other members of the communities' development, and the last chapter felt unneccearily tell-y.
That criticism aside, this was a fantastic read, full of believable, realistic yet sympathetic characters, multiple interesting perspectives, humor and warmth. Perhaps a contender, and definitely a must-read!
Rating: 4.0 out of 5.0
Angela @ SC
I agree with both Destinee and Deb that the different perspectives really pushed it to the next level. When Jack Will explains how at first he was "encouraged" to be nice to the new kid and how he became Auggie's actual friend felt real and moving. I was also touched by the sister's perspective on how she's had to be extra independent and how hard that has been on her.
While I agree the last chapter was a tad schmaltzy, I found it believable that a principal and parents would do that at an assembly.
I was really glad to see the appendix of Mr. Browne's Prcepts because I we only got a few through the story!
Rating: 5 out of 5
Bekka @ Des Moines
I absolutely loved this book. Each character’s narration is refreshing and gives additional insight on his or her motives. If you are not already “Team Jack”, then you will definitely be a fan once you read the events from his point of view. As Deb mentioned, some of the minor characters truly shine once their perspectives are described.
The last couple of chapters are the weakest part of the book. At first I thought that I was simply disappointed because I was sad that the story had to end. Then I was able to pinpoint the reason. Palacio resisted being preachy but she caved during the last few chapters. Luckily, the reader will be invested in all of the characters. Perhaps some people will even embrace the extra heartwarming moments. This book brings out so many emotions that you’ll be drained yet exhilarated by the last page.
I already know that this will be one of my favorite books, not only one of my top children’s books but it will be in my overall 2012 best reads category. Enjoy!
Rating: 5.0 out of 5.0