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Wonder

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Wonder Reviews | Toppsta

Book Rating: 5 based on 87
87 Reviews
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Now an Oscar nominated film starring Julia Roberts, Owen Wilson and Jacob Tremblay.

'My name is August. I won't describe what I look like. Whatever you're thinking, it's probably worse.'

Auggie wants to be an ordinary ten-year-old. He does ordinary things - eating ice cream, playing on his Xbox. He feels ordinary - inside. But ordinary kids don't make other ordinary kids run away screaming in playgrounds. Ordinary kids aren't stared at wherever they go.

Born with a terrible facial abnormality, Auggie has been home-schooled by his parents his whole life. Now, for the first time, he's being sent to a real school - and he's dreading it. All he wants is to be accepted - but can he convince his new classmates that he's just like them, underneath it all?

WONDER is a funny, frank, astonishingly moving debut to read in one sitting, pass on to others, and remember long after the final page.

Wonder Reviews | Toppsta

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First Line

"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 have an XBox. Stuff like that makes me ordinary. I guess. And I feel ordinary. Inside. But I know ordinary kids don't make other ordinary kids run away screaming in playgrounds. I know ordinary kids don' get stared at wherever they go."

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Now an Oscar nominated film starring Julia Roberts, Owen Wilson and Jacob Tremblay.

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Quotes

  • It’s not enough to be friendly. You have to be a friend.
  • When given the choice between being right or being kind, choose kind.
  • Kinder than is necessary. Because it's not enough to be kind. One should be kinder than needed.

Additional Resources

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22nd September '18
I read it myself (an adult)
Wonder 9780552565974
5 stars
After hearing extracts from multiple students reading to me, I thought I had best read it cover to cover for myself. The book is definitely better than the film and does not disappoint. From the first chapter you are immediately able to connect with Auggie, a young boy with facial deformities. As he sets off for his first day of school, you can only hope that he is accepted and has the chance to show off his clever knowledge. A wonderful story for children teaching about acceptance no matter what someone looks like, it's peoples personalities which make them who they are. I really enjoyed how it is written, with one chapter being written with no punctuation, almost giving way to different characters personalities and traits. Fantastic book to engage young readers.
10th December '18
Yzabelle read it themselves aged 9 aged 9
Wonder 9780552565974
5 stars
I think that Wonder is a really good book that has a great storyline and its quite sad in some places
This book is about a 10 year old boy called August who doesn't at all feel confident about the way he looks and is teased about his looks by a horrible boy in his class.
15th June '18
JujuxFlamingo read it themselves aged 11 aged 11
Wonder 9780552565974
5 stars
This book was so great to read. I was really sad at some points, and happy/excited at others. The book teaches you about friendship and kindness. It's about a boy that was born with "Cleft Palate" and joins a school for the very first time. It's an amazing book- for children and adults. Although, I thought the ending was going to be completely different- but I liked anyway.
27th March '18
Ali read it themselves aged 12 aged 12
Wonder 9780552565974
5 stars
An incredibly moving yet exciting book, about a young boy with a major disability. The story is about him trying to go to a new school, and fit in with the other children. But, his disability makes everything a lot more difficult for him. This book is amazing, and a really good read for anyone.
15th June '18
JujuxFlamingo read it themselves aged 11 aged 11
Wonder 9780552565974
5 stars
This book was so great to read. I was really sad at some points, and happy/excited at others. The book teaches you about friendship and kindness. It's about a boy that was born with "Cleft Palate" and joins a school for the very first time. It's an amazing book- for children and adults. Although, I thought the ending was going to be completely different- but I liked anyway.
13th October '18
Fp2019 read it themselves aged 9 aged 9
Wonder 9780552565974
5 stars
I really liked this book as it really kept me interested and made me want to know what happened next. The characters were all different to eachother and they all had their own different things which made them individual. 
This is one of the best books i have read i have really enjoyed it and was glad my teacher recommended it. 
3rd December '18
bookworm2007 read it themselves aged 11 aged 11
Wonder 9780552565974
5 stars
This was a really good book although it made me cry so much I really enjoyed it and I couldn't put it down. It is about this boy called august who has a mark on his face and gets teased about it at school.
15th November '16
MarcyB read it themselves aged 10 aged 10
Wonder 9780552565974
5 stars
I loved this book because there was nonstop adventure and unexpected happenings. this book is VERY emotional and touching because it always feels like that book was made for you especially. it is almost like the book reflects your own life and emotions  So if your looking for a decent sized book to feast your eyes upon i would choose this book if i were you.
17th January '19
I read it myself (an adult)
Wonder 9780552565974
5 stars
Wow, what a story! It deals with some quite sensitive issues and parts of it are very sad. However, it deals with these issues in a way that young readers will understand and relate to.
The very short 1/2/3 page chapters make the book very easy to read. It can be read for short periods, or you may find it difficult to put down once you have started it.
August Pullman is 10 years old and he lives with his mum and dad and sister Via, short for Olivia. We are not told this straight away, but the story is about the appearance of August. In fact it is not until page 88 that Via gives us a detailed description of what August's face is like. The story is then largely about August and how he copes with starting at a new school. Other children ask
       "what happened to your face?"
       "were you in a fire or something?"
Each part of the story is narrated by a different character, including August himself, his sister and each of his best friends. This works well because the problems faced by August are given from different view points.
A lovely story, well worth reading. Sensitive and difficult issues are tackled, but there is a good sprinkling of humour.
6th November '18
TommyZoom42 read it themselves aged 10 aged 10
Wonder 9780552565974
5 stars
Such an amazing book. I have high functioning autism and attend a special needs school. This book is the embodiment of our school ethos. No judgement and inclusion!
7th June '18
OllieP read it themselves aged 10 aged 10
Wonder 9780552565974
5 stars
Wonder is a really amazing book. Probably my favourite book so far. My best bit of the book was when Jack Will defended August in the forest against loads of 7th graders. I would definitely recommend this book to every one in school above year 3. 
29th January '18
Goldencrown1011 read it themselves aged 11 aged 11
Wonder 9780552565974
5 stars
 WONDER
I love this book! This book is very enjoyable to read and quite emotional. It almost made me want to cry! I would recommend this book to anyone over the age of 6/7. This book really is a wonder! I enjoyed every second of it! I strongly recommend this book.
4th April '18
ChildGenius read it themselves aged 9 aged 9
Wonder 9780552565974
5 stars
This captivating book is about a child with a deformed face who has been homeschooled for his life. However, he is then sent to school and he doesn’t like it because of the bullying there , due to his deformed face. The book talks about the bullying and other issues from many peoples perspective. I thoroughly enjoyed the book.
8th April '16
I read it myself (an adult)
Wonder 9780552565974
5 stars
this book was amazing and truly inspirational. I am an adult and read this as an adult but its my belief everyone 9+ should read this book. So many lessons to learn and so much that stays with you. if I was a teacher I would ensure this book was read and discussed.
As soon as my daughter is old enough I will be buying her this book.
10th September '18
OEM read it themselves aged 12 aged 12
Wonder 9780552565974
5 stars
This book is so inspiring! 
It completely changes the way you look at the world (in a good way).
It is all about kindness, caring and friendship.
The book is so positive, and also very funny, making it a great read for anybody of any age.
I definitely recommend you to read this book, I can guarantee you will love it! 
6th November '18
I read it myself (an adult) & to Bourne aged 11 to 16
Wonder 9780552565974
5 stars
Fantastic book that really makes you think. The characters feel real and you are drawn into their lives.
Students at our secondary school love it and it never stays on the shelf.
17th August '17
I read it myself aged 11 aged 11
Wonder 9780552565974
5 stars
Wonder is probrably my all time favourite book, full of twist and turn, you never know what is going to happen next. Such a touching book about a young boy called August, who was born with a rare facial disformality. Because of his condition, when he starts school after being homeschooled for all his life (10 years), he gets bullied by a horrid child named Julian. Fortunately, Jack, Julian's former friend, takes the time to talk to August. And so does Summer a kind girl who wants to be a friend to August. All three of them become strong friends. Soon August realises that you don't have to be ordinary to fit in. Wonder is a book that everyone can relate to. I would recommend this to anyone who want a really touching and moving book. When you have read the first one (Wonder) the second one is also amazing (Auggie and Me). I hope you like the book as much as I did!  
4th December '18
KeaniH read it themselves aged 11 aged 11
Wonder 9780552565974
5 stars
I think that Wonder is a great book with a great storyline. It's about a 10 year old boy called Auggie that doesn't feel confident about the way he looks. When he starts Year 5, he is teased about his looks by a horrible boy in his class, who doesn't appreciate people who look different and unique to him. It's sad in some places but I still think the book deserves a five star rating. 
17th August '17
I read it myself aged 11 aged 11
Wonder 9780552565974
5 stars
Wonder is probrably my all time favourite book, full of twist and turn, you never know what is going to happen next. Such a touching book about a young boy called August, who was born with a rare facial disformality. Because of his condition, when he starts school after being homeschooled for all his life (10 years), he gets bullied by a horrid child named Julian. Fortunately, Jack, Julian's former friend, takes the time to talk to August. And so does Summer a kind girl who wants to be a friend to August. All three of them become strong friends. Soon August realises that you don't have to be ordinary to fit in. Wonder is a book that everyone can relate to. I would recommend this to anyone who want a really touching and moving book. When you have read the first one (Wonder) the second one is also amazing (Auggie and Me). I hope you like the book as much as I did!  
16th March '16
Calvin read it themselves aged 10 aged 10
Wonder 9780552565974
5 stars
This book is a novel about a boy named August who has facial disfigurement, who goes to a new school and makes new friends and goes on an adventure.
This book is an understanding book because if you have a deformed face or tics or something like that, then read this book.  I would recommend it to my school classmates, because they have a lot of teasing about what people look like and stuff.
August and Jack are the main characters.  August has a facial disfigurement and hearing aids and goes to a new school and makes new friends and one of them is Jack.  Jack has a baseball cap, he has a perfectly fine face and he is friends with Summer, Jack goes to a new school and makes friends with August.
It was the best book I have ever read because it helped me understand that it does not matter what people look like it only matters that we all be friends.
14th March '18
Cutie read it themselves aged 10 aged 10
Wonder 9780552565974
5 stars
I was in love this book.it was so emotional and sometimes funny.my favourite part of the book was when Auggie was happy and had loads of friends at the end. The part which made me cry a little bit was when daisy died but that’s how life goes.
8th June '18
AshtonT read it themselves aged 10 aged 10
Wonder 9780552565974
5 stars
wonder is a book about a boy who has a facial deformity and had to go to school but he got bullied because of his face but he made two friends who helped him and made him feel like a normal child this book gets emotional at some parts
23rd December '18
I read it to GLM1 aged 10 aged 10
Wonder 9780552565974
5 stars
Having watched the film myself, I thought this would be a good read for my 10 year old son but also ended up reading it myself and we both thoroughly enjoyed it.
A touching story which teaches a lot about overcoming obstacles, bravery and mostly about kindness to others.
I would recommend this book to children and adults alike 
17th October '18
I read it myself (an adult)
Wonder 9780552565974
5 stars
I had read all the hype about this book and and was pleasantly surprised. Telling the story of August who attends school for the first time ever. And he knows he is different. He has a genetic abnormality which means his face is different. The story tells of the highs and lows of entering high school for the first time, knowing whether friendships are fake or real and how great determination can overcome everything. This story is uplifting and life affirming and I urge anyone with teens and teenagers themselves to read this book. 
6th November '18
I read it myself (an adult) & to Year 5 and 6 Book Club aged 9 to 11
Wonder 9780552565974
5 stars
We read this for our school Book Club for Years 5 and 6.  Any child who has read the book we are discussing is welcome to come along to the meetings, so the numbers are flexible.  This book was a very popular choice (suggested by one of the children) so we had about 12 children eagerly discussing it.  It is a great book for beginning discussion around how children who are different are treated and what it feels like to be the child that is different. I particularly liked the relationship between August and his sister who, although devoted to August, definitely feels sidelined in the family dynamics.  This is a feel-good story without shying away from some difficult topics and I would have no hesitation in recommending it to children to read.
27th April '18
ZaneL read it themselves aged 11 aged 11
Wonder 9780552565974
5 stars
This book was an interesting read. I would definitely recommend it for anyone and readers my age. It is a good book to talk about being kind to others and how to love everyone. 
26th January '19
I read it myself (an adult) & to Lollypop aged 9 aged 9
Wonder 9780552565974
5 stars
I love it!!!!!its my fave book ever
4th April '18
Class 5-6CB read it themselves aged 9 to 11
Wonder 9780552565974
5 stars
This book was so moving. We read it as our class novel and there were so many discussion points about kindness, friendship and love. 

My class (Years 5 - 6) loved it, with almost all of them giving it a five star review. The book itself shares the journey of August, as he embarks on his first year at school (Grade 5) and the troubles this causes him and those around him. It teaches us of the importance of being kind and loving. The only book to have been given a round of applause when finishing. 
6th November '18
I read it myself (an adult)
Wonder 9780552565974
5 stars
I was absolutely hooked as soon as I started reading this! I am a primary school teacher and wanted to read it to my next class, so decided to read it myself first during the summer holidays.  I read it from start to finish in one day, ad I jusy couldn't put it down.  Such an emotional story that can pull heaps of empathy out of anyone!
30th January '18
I read it myself (an adult)
Wonder 9780552565974
5 stars
The best book I read in 2016, I read a chapter in the shop and got hooked so I brought it. I felt Auggies pain by just reading, its so well written and anyone can relate to the story; which is heart breaking sad that pulls at your heart strings. I must add that the film was a blast too it was light and heartwarming yet sad
14th March '19
R~M~Jones read it themselves aged 13 aged 13
Wonder 9780552565974
5 stars
Wonder explores the difficulties a unique child faces in everyday life. I read this book in my English lessons and found it hard to close at the end of each lesson. I loved reading Wonder and would recommend it to anybody from year 5 upwards.
 
Wonder is charged with emotion and each character is extremely well crafted. All of the chapters are from the perspective of a child who knows August. To have multiple narrators throughout the book is an inventive technique used by the author, the shifting point of view grants the reader an extended outlook of events in the story. It doesn't create a complicated plot, yet a simple one that is relatable for a wide variety of people.
 
Personally, my favourite character is Via. She is an interesting person and brave. In the face of being overshadowed by her brother, she remained strong, independent and mature. While a child her age would typically be resentful and jealous, she still loved August with all her heart.
 
This story is meaningful because it raises awareness of the difficulties a child similar to August can endure in modern society. It conveys the idea that everybody has a story as unique and complex as your own. In reading this book I faced an abundance of emotions: sadness, happiness, guilt, empathy, hilarity etc. What makes the book so unique is the light-hearted, humorous style in which it is written. It won't fail to make you smile, it's a wonderful outcome considering the serious subject the book covers. 
26th January '19
I read it myself (an adult)
Wonder 9780552565974
5 stars
So emotional.really drags u in.would definitely recommend it
2nd November '18
I read it myself (an adult) & to Key stage 2 (y3 to y6) aged 6 to 10
Wonder 9780552565974
5 stars
Love this book. Perfect for upper ks2. A great story about a boy who is different and struggles to fit in.
8th June '17
Mads1811 read it themselves aged 9 aged 9
Wonder 9780552565974
5 stars
I really like this book but I feel sad for author lots when reading it with my mum
25th May '18
EbonieM read it themselves aged 10 aged 10
Wonder 9780552565974
5 stars
I enjoyed this book because it gives you the opportunity to have an experience that August does. I pretended to put myself into the book.
19th January '19
I read it to mattieavfc aged 10 aged 10
Wonder 9780552565974
5 stars
After watching the film, my 10 year old brother and I were inspired to read this book together. We read it together and also read it separately. It is a beautifully, touching story which focuses on bravery, kindness and brings up a lot of sensitive issues that are usually dismissed in kids books. We thought it was a lovely story, very influential and brought about a lot of smiles and tears from the both of us. Would recommend for adults as well as children. One of the best books we've read in a long while!
12th December '17
I read it to Class 5-6CB aged 9 to 11
Wonder 9780552565974
5 stars
We've only just started it as a class book and already it is engaging reluctant readers in a class text. A brilliant book so far!
14th December '18
I read it myself (an adult)
Wonder 9780552565974
5 stars
It is a common to say that books can take you to other worlds, and that is certainly very true in the case of this book.  Starting with August Pullman, we as the reader are drawn into the life of a boy with severe facial deformation.  His parents have done what they can to protect him from the outside world, the looks, the stares and the horrible comments, providing him with a safe, nurturing and loving upbringing.  Having home schooled him, they reluctantly decide that it is time for Auggie to go to school, in spite of their fears of how other children might react to him. What follows is the tale of his first year of school, the difficulties he faces and the challenges that he overcomes.  Told from a number of perspectives, we hear from his sister, his new friends, his sisters boyfriend and others the impact that Auggie has on their lives.  Interestingly, we don't get to hear from any of the adult characters (perhaps that is another book?!), but the telling of the story from so many perspectives gives a great overview of what happens and demonstrates to the reader how easy misunderstandings can happen, how we all perhaps need to look deeper into why people behave the way they do and perhaps not be so quick to judge those around us. The theme of friendship runs through the book, and how what happens when mistakes are made.  Is it possible to forgive?  Should you keep confidences? When can issues not be resolved?  

I have not yet read this with my children, but I look forward to when I do - my elder son begins secondary school next year and I think this will be a great book to read before then.  It will be a great way to start conversations about friendship groups, bullying and how to cope with the new friendships that will form. 

I would also say that if you like this book, perhaps try some John Green books which are similar in terms of great writing that explores a slightly older age group (teens) and the trials and tribulations of that age group.
25th June '18
I read it myself (an adult) , to Callum2010 aged 7 aged 7 & to Gymnastjay aged 5 aged 5
Wonder 9780552565974
5 stars
Such a moving book. I’m thoroughly enjoying reading it with my children. Shows just how important kindness can be. 
28th January '16
I read it myself (an adult) & to Jem aged 10 aged 10
Wonder 9780552565974
5 stars
Wonder is about young boy, August Pullman, who has a congenital facial abnormality. We hear how he copes with his unusual appearance, and enter the lives of his family, sister and friends- and how he copes with children's reactions: not always kind ones. It is inspirational and thought provoking; at times it is funny and also sad. It finishes very positively and is a quick read. Suitable for age 10 and up. A few Americanisms which are annoying but not off putting.
4th August '17
I read it myself (an adult)
Wonder 9780552565974
5 stars
"To me, though, I'm just me. An ordinary kid."

What a beautiful story. One that so many people could learn so much from. 

Choose kind.
27th January '19
reading gladiator read it themselves aged 9 aged 9
Wonder 9780552565974
5 stars
I really liked this book even though it is really sad. It teaches you a lot of lessons such as don't judge people the way they look. I would recommend this to anyone 8 or older. I hope this review has helped!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
27th January '19
hpbooklover read it themselves aged 11 aged 11
Wonder 9780552565974
5 stars
I read this book back when I was 9 years old then read it again when I was 10. I found it really emotional and interesting.
it can teach you a lot of important life lessons such as not judging people by the way they look before you get to know them.
I recommend this book to anyone aged 9 and over.
I hope this review helped.
25th April '17
I read it myself (an adult)
Wonder 9780552565974
5 stars
A brilliant read about a topic not normally written about in fiction. August's facial deformity is noted and dealt with by close friends and family. I liked the fact that the story is written from different view points allowing you to make up your own mind about August. His sister fades into the background as his parents are so concerned about August's wellbeing. Read it and see whose side you are on.
3rd November '18
tom1 read it themselves aged 11 aged 11
Wonder 9780552565974
5 stars
This was the best book ever - I loved it from the first page to the last - I loved that it was written by each of the characters and I loved Auggie the best of all.
It is sad but a happy book too. I read some on my own - I am 11 - it was easy to read but it was nice to read it with my mum as sometimes it was a bit sad in places. 
I think everyone should read it before they watch the film too!
30th April '18
I read it myself (an adult)
Wonder 9780552565974
5 stars
Wonderful book which I think every child from year 5 up should read.  Never judge a book by it's cover is the hidden message.  Moving and I was unable to put the book down.
22nd March '18
I read it myself (an adult) & to Oak class year 6 aged 10 to 11
Wonder 9780552565974
5 stars
I absolutely loved this book. It is very thought provoking and makes you realise how judgemental some people can be. The book is written from different peoples points of view which is really clever and shows you how different people see the same situation. My year 6 class are now reading this book and they also love it.
9th May '18
I read it myself (an adult)
Wonder 9780552565974
5 stars
This is a fabulous book. my daughter was reading this in school and there we going to slowly so we went and brought it our self's so she could finish it quicker. A real cannot put down book. A good story of a child 's life which we call all take something from good morals and how to behave with kindness and respect. read by myself 43 ellie 11 and mia 14
29th October '18
I read it myself (an adult)
Wonder 9780552565974
5 stars
My 11 year old daughter read this first and loved it so much that she recommended I read it! 

It is an amazing book to teach children empathy and I've recommended it to teachers as a KS2 class reading book.

There is one section in the book where someone let's August down, it is so well written that it made me cry as an adult. The characters are all so believable and relatable.  

Thoroughly recommend this book! 
28th December '18
I read it to Chestnut 6 aged 10 to 11
Wonder 9780552565974
5 stars
A wonderful, heart warming tale, of a young boy with a facial disfiguration and his journey from being home schooled to the wild lands of a real school in America. The story is wonderfully told from different character's perspectives for each chapter, so that you really get to know the characters, and also see different scenarios from different character's points of view. This story has funny moments, heart warming moments, tragic moments, and moments of hate and rage - the vast range of emotions displayed by different characters at different moments make great teaching and learning points. But generally the stories main message is that there is wonder in everyone, no matter what they look like. Brilliant!
1st July '18
I read it myself (an adult)
Wonder 9780552565974
5 stars
I loved this book, I'd heard so many things about it, I needed to read it for myself and I wasn't disappointed. It kept me hooked from the first page. I loved how the story was told from different characters perspectives, it helped get to know Auggie better. Auggie is such a sweet boy, I just wanted to hug him.
4th November '18
I read it to 6W aged 10 to 11
Wonder 9780552565974
5 stars
Wonder is such an important book for children to experience. It explored themes of love, loss, empathy, friendship and being different! 
Auggie is a character that all children relate to. He is funny, intelligent, has a warm and loving family and he feels ordinary in every way. What makes him extra ordinary is his appearance. Attending school for the first time, he has to deal with stares and name calling and making friends. 
This book really helped my class to be empathetic and I feel as though it had a massively positive impact on them! 
8th September '16
I read it myself (an adult)
Wonder 9780552565974
5 stars
An absolute 'must read' for children transitioning into secondary school or facing a challenge/change. Beautifully written - this book tells the story of a strong and determined young boy named August, who day in day out has to live with being judged by those around him and even by himself. I read this as an adult and it really made me think about how differently things can be interpreted and also how doing something small and somewhat insignificant to you can have a huge impact on someone else. Each chapter is from the viewpoint of a different character and is therefore incredibly insightful. I laughed, I cried and I recommended it to friends. 
6th December '18
Rachy read it themselves aged 9 aged 9
Wonder 9780552565974
5 stars
This book is about a boy called August who has never been to school before. I found this book gripping as I wanted to read on to find out what would happen next.
18th March '18
I read it to Class 3 aged 7 to 8
Wonder 9780552565974
5 stars
I thoroughly enjoyed reading Wonder as an adult and found that the children I shared the story with found it as inspirational and thought provoking as I did. August is a wonderful character and I particularly enjoyed seeing the situation from so many points of view. I must say, Via is such a fascinating character, and completely relatable to the young readers. A book to share and wonder over!
21st May '17
I read it myself (an adult)
Wonder 9780552565974
5 stars
Several children in my year 5 class were reading this book, and recommended it to me-so glad they did!  This book is very special, and its moral ending will stay with you forever.   I was emotional invested in the characters in the book-i cried twice! It follows the life of August, a fifth grader who was home schooled, then chooses to attend a regular school.  He has a severe facial disfigurement, and the story of what happens to him during that school year is cleverly told through his, and others characters' eyes. 
It's an amazing read, I read it in one day as I just couldn't put it down.  The ending blew me away.  I would say anyone 9+ should read this - it really does make you think. Totally loved it! 
22nd April '18
I read it myself (an adult)
Wonder 9780552565974
5 stars
I'm very late to the Wonder party, I know - I avoid massively hyped books until it's all died down a bit (I'm not sure this one is going to die down soon, mind!). Occasionally the hype is right: Wonder is a peach of a book. Pitch-perfect, honest, characters you just love from the outset with all their joys and flaws. I think it's important to remember this is a middle-grade book with middle-grade characters. There's a lot of scope for disability-related lit to be gritty and painful (though not compulsory; Truly Wildy Deeply is the most uplifting book you can imagine), but whilst you don't want to sugar-coat disability, you do need to be mindful of your audience and their relative life experience.

Wonder is spot on for 9-12s and I can see why so many teachers use it as a class novel. One of my Y6s requested it multiple times and I'm so glad he pushed me to read it.
23rd August '18
I read it myself (an adult)
Wonder 9780552565974
5 stars
This is such a fantastic book. It's about a boy, Auggie who has facial disfigurements and finds it hard to settle in school. A must read book that I found myself crying at the end. One of my favourite books! 
18th August '18
Happypanda read it themselves aged 12 aged 12
Wonder 9780552565974
5 stars
I really enjoyed Wonder.I liked the way the story was shown from different people’s perspectives and each had their own writing style. The book was very moving and thought-provoking. 
7th December '18
Giggle read it themselves aged 11 aged 11
Wonder 9780552565974
5 stars
This book is great! I had watched the film before I started reading the book so I already knew the storyline but it was fine. My favourite character in this was definitely the main character August because he was different and he embraced that and because he was homeschooled  (Like me!)
I liked Via (August’s sister) too because she loved her brother and wasn’t mean to him because of his face. My favourite part 8n The is book was definitely the bit near the end where August is at summer camp but I won’t say anything about it because then it will spoil the story! I would recommend this book to ages 10 or 11 plus.
17th December '18
I read it myself (an adult) , to School Librarians aged 8 to 11 , to BigKid aged 12 aged 12 & to MidKid aged 10 aged 10
Wonder 9780552565974
5 stars
Meet August. His family call him Auggie for short. Auggie has a severe facial disfigurement, and other health issues, that have kept him home-schooled for most of his life. His exposure to the outside world has been minimal, but of that is about to change as he prepares to start Middle School. This is a major step for Auggie and a decision that hasn’t been made lightly, and as the book begins, you begin to question that it was the right thing to do. As the story unfolds, however, we learn the story from different perspectives of the characters giving an honest, tragic and even funny side to his life. This is a great read for children who are about to transfer into different schools and a lesson to us all that we should be ourselves and always be kind - 'kinder than is necessary'. 

I would recommend this book to children in year 5&6 - in fact, I would say that it's a 'must read'!
19th October '18
Kaylan read it themselves aged 11 aged 11
Wonder 9780552565974
5 stars
I have just finished reading Wonder and really enjoyed it. It made you think and feel what the main character August was going thorugh and what it was like to be him. August was a really kind and funny character but felt that he was different to everyone else. I felt really sorry for him. The book was an emotional rollercoaster and i would highly recommend it.  I also plan to watch the film!
24th February '19
birchbear read it themselves aged 10 aged 10
Wonder 9780552565974
5 stars
I really enjoyed this book and am now reading Auggie & Me. I liked it because it has a lot of important life lessons, such as don't judge a book by its cover. However, I would recommend this book for people with a reading age of 13+.
12th September '18
BigBoyBen read it themselves aged 11 aged 11
Wonder 9780552565974
5 stars
This book is a triumph that allows you to discover how it is to walk in another persons shoes. It makes you feel lucky to be alive and appreciate the small things that work well in your life. 
The characters are described really well which means that you get to know them and relate to them much quicker then in other books.
4th December '17
Duke_G read it themselves aged 11 aged 11
Wonder 9780552565974
5 stars
I really recommend this book. It is AMAZING!! This is a very lovely and emotional story. I loved it though! RJ Palacio is a great author. This book is the kind of book you just can’t put down! You can’t stop reading it! she has also written auggie and me which I would also strongly recommend!!
17th December '18
I read it myself (an adult)
Wonder 9780552565974
5 stars
This is a brilliant book about kindness, friendship and being unique. Told from the perspective of several characters we follow the story of Auggie as he navigates the world of school for the first time. With a medical condition that has affected the way he looks, he was born to stand out, even though he doesn’t always want to. This book is funny, sad and thought provoking. 
3rd March '19
phoenixgirl read it themselves aged 10 aged 10
Wonder 9780552565974
5 stars
This bookl is my favourite book ever
It is really sad and emotional
I liked it because the main character always makes the best of things
3rd March '19
I read it to Year 5 Class 2017-18 aged 9 to 10
Wonder 9780552565974
5 stars
What an incredible find for me as a Year 5 teacher. This book had every single child in my class silently listening to my every word as I read this book to them. August is such a carefully presented character with so many angles to his personality and life as a child with a facial deformity. Through this story, my class and I were able to empathise with August and his family as we got to know them and what they had been through, whilst being educated about his condition and medical treatment. We particularly enjoyed how the story was told from different perspectives to make us feel as if we were part of the story and really got to know each character on a deep level.

While reading this story myself, I was concerned at whether the story was slightly more mature than the children in my year 5 class (due to mention of suicide and bullying). As I began to read the story aloud, I was careful to edit some parts slightly but then I realised that this book could be used as a way of addressing very real issues. As a result of this, I was pleasantly surprised at the rich conversation I was able to have with the children and I genuinely feel it has opened their eyes and allowed them to relate to other people more.

I would definitely recommend this book for teachers to read to their Year 5 or 6 class but I personally wouldn’t encourage children to read it independently, without some discussion about the topics covered.
2nd December '18
I read it to Year 6 readers aged 10 to 11
Wonder 9780552565974
5 stars
We had all heard about this book but not many of us had read it. We really enjoyed the story, it wasn't quite what we were expecting as it's told from several perspectives. We found that we understood Auggie's sister's feelings and also wondered if we'd have dealt with things differently. It's a great book and we think it might be a good one to read again ,after a time, as it really challenged our thinking.
19th July '18
I read it myself (an adult)
Wonder 9780552565974
5 stars
I love the backstory with august and what has happened to him in the past. It is probably the best book that I have read in ages
23rd October '16
SassyJ read it themselves aged 10 aged 10
Wonder 9780552565974
5 stars
Augustus is a young boy that just tries to fit in. But he cannot because he was born to stand out. After years of not going to a public school his family and August make the decision to go to a public school. This book is amazing and made me cry and laugh it's storyline is perfect for all types of readers also it teaches acceptance and to love one another which in this day and time I think it's one thing we're lacking.
8th December '18
I read it to Mookster2000 aged 10 aged 10
Wonder 9780552565974
5 stars
I thought this story was very emotional and it had some gripping chapters and is now made into a film which is really cool!   The layout of the book is great and I would like to see a sequel to this book.

Basically it is about this boy has a deformed face and how finds his life in yr5 and how he survives the difficulty and how he makes friends.
19th January '18
Gg_geoff read it themselves aged 11 aged 11
Wonder 9780552565974
5 stars
Wonder is an amazing book you get hooked on about 
An amazing boy whohas a facial disfigurement
And tells us how he deals with it.
15th November '18
St Augustine’s High School read it themselves aged 11 to 16
Wonder 9780552565974
5 stars
 
Wonder is a book about a boy called August Pullman with facial deformities, whose features are misplaced, and has had 27 surgeries since birth. He is therefore home-schooled but is persuaded by his parents to join fifth grade.
 Just as he expected would happen, people were shocked by his facial appearance and some (he recognised) would ‘hesitate for about a millionth second’.  Early in the book, August Pullman says, ‘I won’t describe what I look like. Whatever you’re thinking, it’s probably worse.’ From the beginning, we can tell that August has low self-esteem and confidence.
Later in the story, we are told that August ‘eats like a tortoise’ and is called things like E.T (extra-terrestrial). August knows how he looks like and asks his mom why he looks ugly. As we proceed into the story, August grows more confident about himself and others. He learns that there is nothing he can do with what he looks like and he has to deal with it.
This heart-warming novel by R.J Palacio has moved hearts and is said to make grown men cry. This book is a book hard to let go of. Every twist and turn through the book brings new elements of surprise, and sometimes even shock. The book takes you and Auggie on a roller coaster ride of emotions that he has to experience in his school year. The book explains the many ways Auggie’s life has been changed by his face deformity including being bullied and standing out all the time.
This book can also be said to be a ‘wakeup call’ for others. It makes us see what people with the same condition and people who are judged have to go through and how it can change their lives. It flicks through the eyes of different characters including his sister, sister’s boyfriend, sister’s best friend, Jack and Summer (his best friends). It has stories for different people so they can express their feelings about what it is like having Auggie around.
This new style of literature gives the reader a wider range of knowledge about what might be going on in Auggie’s life which he doesn’t reveal to us and expands Auggie’s storyline. The style of writing contrasts the writers atitude at that moment, which means some parts are not grammatically correct. However, the choice of language and grammar helps the reader get to know that person better.
Compared to other books that I’ve read, this is definetly top of my list as it is very interesting and is a book very hard to let go of (saying that myself I have read the book 4 times already). I would recommend this book for anyone who can read as it is beneficial for all ages to see how some people’s lives are a daily struggle. It takes us through the eyes of other people,  which makes the reader delve deeper into Auggie’s life. However, I would not recommend this for peope who are looking for grammatically correct books. All in all, I think it is a brilliant book worth having no matter what age or gender. It definetly deserves a five star rating.
12th February '18
Patty cakes read it themselves aged 14 aged 14
Wonder 9780552565974
5 stars
I loved this book 
6th October '16
Gameaddict02 read it themselves aged 11 aged 11
Wonder 9780552565974
5 stars
I really liked this book, I felt really sorry for augustus. I will make sure people at my school dont get bullied
27th June '18
Lolobean read it themselves aged 9 aged 9
Wonder 9780552565974
5 stars
This book touched my heart - sometimes it made me sad, sometimes excited and sometimes happy. I always wondered what would happen to Auggie next. Via (Auggie's sister) is a bit teenagerish (like my brother and sister!), Auggie is realistic because he is not always perfect and I like the way Jack and Julian changed during the book. I loved that I couldn't tell how the book would end.
3rd August '18
I read it myself (an adult)
Wonder 9780552565974
5 stars
What an amazing book. Auggie  is a fantastic character who you cannot help but root for and I loved the family dynamics portrayed in this book too. School politics are very relatable to anyone! I would highly recommend this book, it comes with a really important message.
17th March '19
I read it myself (an adult)
Wonder 9780552565974
5 stars
Auggies tale is so heartwarming. I found it a little odd at first to read the tale from different characters but by the end I loved that it was told in that way. Such a great tale that can open children’s eyes to the world around them, and how their actions can affect others.
30th May '18
I read it myself (an adult)
Wonder 9780552565974
5 stars
I read this book and thought it was fantastic. It is bold and honest throughout - what more could you want when such a sensitive topic is raised? I presented the first chapter to my class during Guided Reading and they fell in love instantly. I was quite anxious about how they would react but immediately they were all engaged and couldn't wait to get their hands on the book to read further into the story. They were honest and said they were intrigued mostly about what he looked like and I explained that this curiosity was normal. It was very easy to relate to the characters and use empathy throughout the book. Children could relate to each of the situations from different viewpoints.

We have recently watched the film at school after hooking ourselves in with the book- it didn't disappoint! 
18th December '18
MunchkinMegan read it themselves aged 11 aged 11
Wonder 9780552565974
5 stars
I knew from the very first page that I was going to really enjoy this book and I was absolutely right! It's a really touching book, I could really feel how the characters were feeling. I liked that the book was from different people's perspectives, I felt that was a great way to get a well rounded idea of everybody and the story as it unfolds from everyone involved. I also really loved the heart-warming quotes from songs and different people- I felt that they went really well with the story and the message that it carries- they're all about how it doesn't matter what you look like, or what you have, that what you should remember is to be yourself.

I couldn't put it down, it was a very easy read, I loved how all the parts tied in with each other. I felt emotionally tied to the story and genuinely loved it so much I could cry. I found it really inspirational. My favourite character, gosh that's hard, is August- he's just lovely, sweet and understanding.

I'd recommend it to everyone.
26th February '19
SauageSmile read it themselves aged 12 aged 12
Wonder 9780552565974
4 stars
This book was sad, funny, romantic, but over all, I just didn`t want to put it down for a second!
30th January '16
I read it myself (an adult)
Wonder 9780552565974
4 stars
I enjoyed reading this book, although really a children's book it is quite readable as an adult. There are a lot of lessons in this book, about how to treat others and how not to judge people by what they look like. It is written in quite a sweet way, which in places is funny and other places quite sad.

I actually think it is a good book to get children to read, to help them to understand what it is like to be different in some way or to have some kind of disability.
2nd September '16
I read it myself (an adult)
Wonder 9780552565974
4 stars
From birth, August hasn’t looked like other children, and we find out through the course of the book more about his appearance. As a result, life has been hard but he is still a happy, funny boy. Then he finds out he is to start school, having been home-schooled by his mother up till now. For someone like August, starting school is never going to be easy…
I thought this was a fantastic book and I found it truly heartbreaking it times. It is one of those books that will stay with you for a long time after reading, and I would say that all young people should read it! There are lots of messages about kindness in the book and I think these are messages that all of us can do with hearing, whatever our age.
I also really liked the different narrators, which gave a whole other dimension to the story. 
6th September '18
I read it myself (an adult)
Wonder 9780552565974
4 stars
An excellent story to teach others about empathy and kindness.
With relevant storylines to the current lives of others around us in the world today, and with amazing characters who you can get on with from page 1, this story really is an excellent choice for any reluctant readers.
6th February '19
Elliox11 read it themselves aged 11 aged 11
Wonder 9780552565974
3 stars
It showed different prospectives of how people view physical disfigurements, I quite liked a boy named Jack because he was a cool character. It made me realise looks don’t matter.
19th February '19
AvaA read it themselves aged 11 aged 11
Wonder 9780552565974
2 stars
Unfortunately I really struggled with this book. I found the characters a bit confusing and lacked description. Although the chapters seemed short I felt they could have added more story line. Maybe I’ll give this another go at a later date, but it’s definitely not one of my favorites. 
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About R. J. Palacio

R. J. Palacio lives in New York City with her family and a black dog called Bear. Her critically acclaimed debut novel, WONDER, has sold 5 million copies worldwide....

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BOOKS BY R. J. Palacio

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