Hi! My name is Josefina. Just as Lujjy, I’m fond of literature. As we are good friends, I will also be submitting some posts to the blog from time to time. I know I’m not your usual writer, but I hope you like my posts as much as you enjoy Lujjy’s. Here is a review of the book Wonder, by R. J. Palacio. Cheers!
Summary of Wonder
August Pullman has the typical American life: he eats ice-cream, plays football and even owns an Xbox. But he can’t see nor be seen as an “ordinary” child. Born with a cleft palate, August has been operated several times during his life. All to become much of a “normal” kid.
However, our protagonist has to go through something even more complicated: starting his studies at a real school. Used to being homeschooled by his mother, August will have to face (and with his face) all that it means to attend school.
While he continues his journey to ordinariness, his family will have to work on strengthening the support net they are to him. Not an easy peasy task to take up when you are a grown-up parent. Neither an older sister who has just graduated from middle school and is about to start a journey of her own. And apparently on her own as well.
“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.”
Wonder, by R. J. Palacio.
Personal Comments
I believe this book is a call out to our reigned-by-looks society. The author manages to make this message clear throughout the whole story. Not only does it appear apparent in the character of August, but also in the people that surround him. By changing the point of view of the story, R.J. Palacio transforms the book into a polyphony where all characters are allowed to be in the spotlight. This holistic approach makes the storyline meander while allowing the reader to notice how every little aspect of the plot affects each character. I personally liked this more realistic insight along with the relatableness that it brings.
If you are a teenager, this book is perfect for you. Parents should also give this book a try. I wouldn’t recommend it to children, though. Even though it’s easy to follow because of its simple language, younger people might not get the full meaning of the story. So if you are a younger reader, you’d better wait! I promise it will be worth it.
If you are looking for a fast pace book with a rather psychological approach, I guarantee Wonder is worth indulging. You can find it on Amazon and Book Depository.
Star rating
4 out of 5!
Have you read this book? How many stars would you give it?
I hope you liked this review! You can check out others here.
