Book Review: Wonder
By: Nishanth Balaji
Wonder by R.J. Palacio is a heartfelt novel that explores themes of kindness, acceptance, and resilience through the eyes of Auggie Pullman, a boy born with a facial difference. The story not only dives into Auggie's personal struggles and triumphs but also explores how the people around him—his family, friends, and even strangers—are impacted by his presence.
Auggie’s World Through His Eyes
At the heart of Wonder is Auggie himself, a relatable and endearing character who just wants to be treated like any other kid. Starting fifth grade at a new school, he faces immense challenges because of how he looks. While Auggie has been homeschooled up until now, starting public school is both a terrifying and exciting experience for him. Palacio does an incredible job of portraying Auggie’s internal monologue—his fears, hopes, and moments of humor shine through. I found myself rooting for him, feeling his pain, and celebrating his victories.
What makes Wonder stand out is how it encourages readers to look beyond outward appearances and understand the humanity within. Auggie’s voice is authentic and full of personality, making it easy to connect with him as he navigates the ups and downs of middle school life.
Multiple Perspectives: More Than Just Auggie’s Story
One unique feature of Wonder is its use of multiple perspectives. While the story centers on Auggie, we also hear from his sister, Via, and several of his classmates. This narrative structure shows how one person’s story can affect an entire community. Via, for instance, loves Auggie deeply but feels overshadowed by the attention her brother gets. Her struggles are different but no less important, adding depth to the novel. I enjoyed how Palacio didn’t limit the book to just Auggie’s experience but broadened it to show how others were affected, helping me understand the ripple effect of kindness and empathy.
Hearing from Auggie’s friends and peers was equally eye-opening. Their evolving relationships with Auggie show how prejudice and misunderstanding can change over time. This part of the novel felt especially relevant, reminding me that everyone has the capacity for growth and change.
The Impact of Kindness
One of the most powerful themes in Wonder is the importance of kindness. Mr. Browne, Auggie’s teacher, frequently talks about precepts or principles to live by, with the core message being "Choose Kind." This message resonated with me throughout the book, as it showed how small acts of kindness can have a huge impact. Whether it’s through the way characters like Summer and Jack stand by Auggie or how others learn to accept him, kindness plays a transformative role in the story.
At times, Wonder feels like a manual for how to be a better person—how to accept differences, how to forgive, and how to stand up for what’s right. It’s a simple but effective message, and Palacio drives it home without ever being too preachy.
Relatable Challenges of Growing Up
While Auggie’s facial difference is a central part of the story, Wonder also touches on more universal themes that most readers can relate to—friendship, fitting in, and standing up for yourself. Whether you're someone who has ever felt different or just struggled with being accepted, Wonder taps into those shared emotions. Auggie’s journey is not just about his appearance; it’s about finding his place in the world and learning to value himself for who he is, not how he looks.
Even though the novel is aimed at a younger audience, I think its themes are ageless. As a teen, I found myself reflecting on how I interact with people who may be different from me and how I can make more of an effort to be compassionate and understanding.
Conclusion: A Story That Stays With You
Wonder left a lasting impression on me. It’s one of those books that stays with you long after you finish reading. The characters feel real, the emotions hit hard, and the lessons are timeless. This isn’t just a book about a boy with a facial difference; it’s a story about being human and learning to be better to one another.
I would highly recommend Wonder to anyone, especially teens, who are looking for a book that is both meaningful and entertaining. It’s a powerful reminder of how important it is to be kind, to be brave, and to choose to see the beauty in everyone around us.
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