To be honest, I probably wouldn't have picked up this book to read on my own, but I am so glad I did - this is a book that will stick with me for a long, long time.
Wonder is the story of August, or Auggie, who was born with a severe facial deformity that kept him from attending public school until now. But this year, Auggie starts fifth grade at Beecher Prep, a real school with real students who aren't used to Auggie and his extraordinary face.
What I loved most about this novel are the unique perspectives we get from the characters including Auggie, his sister Via, his classmates, and even Via's boyfriend. Each section of the book is told from the viewpoint of one of these characters, with the book returning to Auggie's perspective in the final chapters. Each character's voice is incredibly unique, honest, and completely believable. Though the minds and voices are unique, the longing in each character is the same; they each long to be accepted and loved simply for who they are.
The overarching theme that I sense in this story is hope. Life is messy and hard but there are moments and people that make it worth living and sharing with others. And if we can be a little kinder than necessary with the people around us, maybe we can bring that moment of hope to someone else.
Highly recommended for kids 4th grade and up - and adults too!
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