Wonder

In September, our Book Club selection was “Wonder” by R. J. Palacio. This book is nothing short of wonderful! I think the general consensus is that not only should you read this book EVERYONE should read this book. 

It is a story of a young boy named August who was born with a severe facial deformity. He has been home schooled and the story begins when August and his family are making the decision to send him to a regular school with children his age.  As we follow August and his family throughout the year we see good and bad and grow to love the family and appreciate love and kindness in the world.  Though it addresses difficult topics, it is not depressing or preachy. The writing is artful and insightful and lifts the viewer to see love, kindness and joy beyond the flawed, meanness of the world.

The author has chosen to give us multiple view points in different chapters, each uniquely written, to allow us to enter into the difficult and yet beautiful lives of people facing such a challenge.  It is tenderly written, both with humor and emotion, exposing good and bad, in short, a delightful way to fall in love with a family of characters one can connect with on many levels.   

It is targeted to a younger audience, such as about 5^th grade but is very difficult to put down no matter what your age. Truly, “Wonder” is one of the best books out there and the overall theme, being kind to others, is one that we can all use.  If you haven’t read it yet, seriously, go find it and read it!