The world needs more books like Wonder. Auggie, who was born with a facial difference that has kept him from school, is finally starting 5th grade at Beecher Prep. Just like any child (any person), he just wanted to be accepted. The story is told from many points of view and once readers meet Auggie, they'll never forget him. This is a wonderful story that will stay with you long after you put it down.

I'm clearing out my feedback shelf. I was sent this review copy in 2012. I did not write a review at the time.

Wonder by R.J. Palacio is a wonderful novel and I'm so glad I had the privilege to read it.

Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for allowing me to read it.

WONDER was such an important read that I couldn't put down, and left me thinking afterwards. Its message is so powerful. As a bookseller, I have gone on to see this title become highly successful and it is still on school reading lists. Whenever kids coming in wanting something different, or needing something about how we perceive one another for school, I recommend WONDER. I even recently recommended the picture book for a parent reading at school who wanted a book on disabilities and including everyone that she would then donate to the library!

Received the digital RC long ago and finally got around to rereading it for the review in 2018.
What more can I say about this book that has not been said already? To answer my own question, I am not sure.
But my kids read the book before me and pestered me to get to reading it with their 'mom, don't tell us you have not read the book yet' when I initially read it a few years ago. And I wanted to reread it before seeing the movie a few weeks ago so this review is from that re-read.
This book is a gem - an emotional tear-jerker that touches your heartstrings so very often - inspiring, full of hope, that feeling of awe at the beauty of human nature and its strength. In the midst of all the news that is so sad, stories like this lift the spirits. So thank you for this book!!!

Wow! What an engaging, captivating story! Ten-year-old Auggie Pullman has far more to deal with than other kids and does so with grace and humor. His severe facial deformities make the transition from homeschool to middle school a daunting challenge. Most of the story is told by Auggie, with additional perspective from his older sister and some friends. The writing is concise, yet beautiful. The characters are well drawn. The situations feel real. Life's lessons are spelled out in a clear but non-preachy way. It's almost impossible not to cheer for Auggie! He is an impressive character who makes you laugh and cry and think about what's really important in life. While this book is marketed for children, it has much broader appeal and will make a great read for teens and adults, too.

My newest group of students who came over from the elementary school were thrilled to see that I have all the Wonder books on my shelves, as well. Since September, when they make it back on shelf, they don't last the day. In other words I looking at getting multiple copies, budget permitting!