Book Nook – Wonder 2026

Wonder

Written by R. J. Palacio

You may be familiar with this title because, perhaps, you have seen the movie or the

stage production, but as is often the case, a book has more depth and breadth than a

movie. Indeed, this book itself is so much more wonder-full.

The book was inspired by an experience R. J. Palacio had with her two young sons.

She was haunted by her youngest son’s reaction to another child’s facial abnormalities

and was concerned about how that child must have felt. So, she set out to tell a story

that promotes kindness and understanding.

Though this is a wonderful chapter book for an older elementary-aged child, it is even

worth reading as an adult. Meet Augie, a 10-year-old, going to school for the first time

as a fifth grader after being home-schooled on account of a genetic condition (Treacher

Collins Syndrome) which resulted in his cranial facial abnormalities. You will learn more

about this phenomenon in the chapter, Genetics 101. Now he is going to move from his

protected environment to a mainstream school. Not only will Augie have to face the

challenges that can automatically arise being the “new kid at a school” but being

“different” as well.

Augie sees himself as just an ordinary kid who just happens to look different. His desire

is for us to see past his looks to see him as just that, ordinary.

The author tells us Augie’s story through the eyes of the different characters in his life,

who each respond differently to him. Readers may find themselves identifying with one

particular classmate’s behavior or pondering how they might act given a similar situation

in their own lives. What kind of courage does it take to reach out to someone who is

noticeably different? How does social and peer pressure stifle or encourage one’s

behavior? What effect does bullying have on a victim as well as the perpetrator? How

do siblings face challenges in their family dynamic? So many possibilities to ponder as

you read Wonder and learn of Augie’s story.

This book is filled with wonderful precepts for all ages. “When given the choice between

being right and being kind. Choose Kind.” Respect, compassion, and civility are all

highlights with this story and did inspire a global movement. Choose Kind.

R. J. Palacio has written two other books around the characters of Wonder. We’re All

Wonders is a delightful picture book about Augie for your younger children. Augie and

Me tells Augie’s story from the perspective of six other children that were not highlighted

in Wonder.

All three books will help children of all ages understand and cope with any

uncomfortable feelings they may have upon encountering those with physical

challenges. Perhaps, these books will also inspire compassion for all our myriad

differences.