Wonder

By R. J. Palacio, R. J. Palacio

Book #1 in the Wonder series

A boy with a unique face faces school for the first time, seeking acceptance.

6.5/7 Bookroo experts·4.3/5 Goodreads · 1,219,409 ratings

316 pages· 73,102 words· Est. 10 hour read

$17.99Save 6%

In stock. Also at Amazon or Bookshop.

Bookroo's summary

Auggie Pullman, born with a facial difference, starts fifth grade at Beecher Prep. As he navigates the challenges of being new and different, he yearns for acceptance. Will his classmates see beyond his extraordinary face? Through shifting perspectives, this story explores empathy, compassion, and the courage to stand out. Can kindness bridge the gap between appearances and true friendship?

“ It’s not enough to be friendly. You have to be a friend.”

— from the book

From the publisher

Born with a facial deformity that initially prevented his attendance at public school, Auggie Pullman enters the fifth grade at Beecher Prep and struggles with the dynamics of being both new and different, in a sparsely written tale about acceptance and self-esteem.

Awards

The E.B. White Read Aloud Award (2013)Cybils Award (2012)

At a glance

Format
Pages: 316
Words: 73,102
Reading age: 8–12
Audience: Middle Grade
Lexile: 790L

Themes & topics

Books about bullying Books about diseases, illnesses, injuries, and disabilities Books about empathy Books about self-acceptance Books about confidence

Inside the book

A peek between the covers

What readers & critics say

Reviews

6.5

out of 7

7.0

“Absolutely fabulous. This is a book you don't want to put down. It's authentic, inspiring, empathetic, empowering, and full of positive messages while being super fun and engaging for kids.”

B is for Bookworm

Trusted reviewer

6.0

“This is a fantastic read. It's one of those books that changes you. I like that Palacio gives us the story through Auggie- Auggie (And Via at certain points) tells us the story from his 10-year-old perspective. Auggie's story is unique, but at the same time it's a story that we can all relate to. Auggie struggles with physical challenges that most of us don't, but I don't think the book is supposed to be about the physical challenges. It's really about the emotional battles he faces that we all encounter. What's more, it's a book that reminds us that others are going through silent challenges too. Wonder is a story that forces us to reconsider how we are treating those that are in our lives. Auggie is physically deformed because of birth and development complications, but he is a strong individual that speaks to us about the unfairness, bullying, betrayal, happiness, and love that we all go through.”

The Fun Uncle

Trusted reviewer

For readers who can't stop at one