Book Review: Wonder

'Wonder' written by R.J.Palacio

'Wonder' is a book about a ten year old boy named August Pullman, also known as Auggie. Auggie was born with a facial abnormality and has never been to school before, instead being home schooled whilst he recovered from surgeries and also to protect him from the cruel world. This book follows Auggie as he starts school in fifth grade.

This books has the ability to really play with your emotions and I particularly like how the story is told from different characters' perspectives as it changes how you feel about them when you understand the bigger picture behind each character's thoughts and behaviors. I couldn't help but find a place in my heart for Auggie, the book does not take a sympathetic, pitying view towards Auggie. instead it makes you think how strong and brave he is, he doesn't let anything stand in his way or knock him down, he just keeps moving forward. It really puts into perspective those bad hair days when you don't want to leave the house in case people notice...there really are far bigger worries than that. The characters feel as though they jump out the book and you find yourself thinking about them even when not reading the book.
I think the scene at the fairgrounds was an incredibly well written scene. Some boys from another school notice Auggie and behave disgustingly towards him and whilst reading I found my heart racing and I was unable to put the book down until I knew it was all okay. It really gripped me and made me feel for those characters. I found this book provoked so many emotions from sorrow to happiness and Auggie's story is an inspiring one.

I think there are very few things to dislike about this book, personally I found the writing a bit too simplistic and would've liked more depth, but then it is aimed at children/teenagers and I found a few typos which were off putting whilst reading.

Although this book is written for children/teenagers, although I do believe there is an adult edition available? I would recommend this book to all ages because I think all of us could take something from this story and apply it to our own lives, whether that be the lesson to be brave enough to be who you are or the lesson to not judge others because they are different. There are so many great lessons to take from this book.

Rating: 8/10