“You really are a wonder, Auggie. You are a wonder.”
Spoken like a true mom, Auggie (August Pullman – the main character of the book Wonder) said this in awe of her own son towards the end of this book.
But the thing is Auggie is anything but an ordinary young boy and from the first line of “Wonder,” by R. J. Palacio, he (himself) tells the reader point blank:
“I know I am not an ordinary ten-year-old kid. I won’t describe what I look like. Whatever you’re thinking is probably worse.”
You are probably asking why Auggie describes himself as anything but ordinary and then goes on to say people run away from him screaming when they see his face.
As Goodreads describes “Wonder“:
August (Auggie) Pullman was born with a facial deformity that prevented him from going to a mainstream school—until now. He’s about to start 5th grade at Beecher Prep, and if you’ve ever been the new kid then you know how hard that can be. The thing is Auggie’s just an ordinary kid, with an extraordinary face. But can he convince his new classmates that he’s just like them, despite appearances?
I have to be honest and tell my readers from the get go that I never heard of this book until I started to read e-book through Overdrive for free through my public library as I shared here.
I saw the cover as I was scrolling through recently returned books. I read through the description and was intrigued. So, I put my name down on the wait list and got a company within hours that day. I had happily just finished the book I was previously reading.
As a former middle school teacher (and now parent too), I feel very strongly about teaching my own girls to treat others equally and fairly no matter what they may look like.
Hopeful for My Girls…I also am hopeful that my girls will be treated fairly by others their own age as they are growing up and in school.
See as a former middle school educator, I happened to be witness to past students feeling they were being treated unfairly or poorly by their peers (what would fall short possibly of bullying) , as well as knowing other students who were more aggressive and whose actions could have been taken for that of the aggressor or bully.
In these past cases, I was quick to intervene by making sure that these kids even if they couldn’t become friends could at the very least co-exist in school with each other.
It was my responsibility to make sure all my students not only learned what they should as far as academics, but also that they felt safe and protected in my classroom.
In “Wonder“, I was highly impressed by the educators’ role in handling the suspected bullying, as well as some of the parents a few were not on board, but towards the end thankfully amended their stance).
And yet as I was composing my thoughts on this book for this blog post, I had shared on Goodreads that I had indeed finished this book and was immediately asked by a good friend and blogger from Dinosaur Superhero Mommy, what I thought of “Wonder“.
I explained to her:
“This book was truly inspiring and gave me such hope that we can as teachers and parents make a difference to help. Granted this situation with the main character’s face was extreme, but I can see why this book is being used to help teach and educate young kids now against bullying.”
The thing is when I began to read “Wonder,” I didn’t know anything other then the description from the public library, but as I read it Emma had just started kindergarten for her first week of school, where ironically I was nervous, but trying to keep out hope that her first foray into elementary school would be filled with all good things for her.
Proudly holding it up to let all know she finally made it to the first day of Kindergarten!
I also just happened to be checking out the elementary school calendar for the month of September and there was a small picture of the cover picture of the author’s image of Auggie to explain that they were having a community discussion/assembly with the third to fifth graders about this book.
The more I read “Wonder“, the more I knew why the school is indeed using this book to help educate our kids in the community about why all children should get along even if they aren’t friends or necessarily would be outside of school and how being tolerant of one another in school is the key to making school not only a pleasant environment, but also a place they can feel safe and secure learning.
And yet I am no fool and know the world truly isn’t a perfect place, but can be a gentler and nicer place, especially for our young kids would be welcomed.
Throughout the book, we get to see the story through not only the eyes of Auggie, but others in the book like his older sister, the kids he does befriend in his new school and even the so-called ‘bully’ (Juilan), where we are treated to his side of the story and to understand his motives.
What we found out was that bullying isn’t as clear cut as you may think. Many times, as was here for Julian, fear was a major motivator. See Julian was afraid of the Auggie’s appearance and this fear was something that was preexisting even before he was introduced to Auggie as a classmate.
The main take way:
is that fear truly shouldn’t lead to bullying or any negative treatment of kids’ fellow peers.
You might might be asking if I would recommend “Wonder” and to whom?
First, I know it is written and can even be read by young kids, but am so happy that I did read this book, because I feel this book can also teach this mom (and former teacher) a lesson or two.
So, in answer to the original question, YES! I would totally recommend “Wonder” as a book to read to all teachers, especially new, plus all parents (new and old), as well.
Because as much as I have seen in the past on the subject of bullying or young kids not getting along, this book left me with ‘hope’ and ‘wonder’, to that if we come to together (parents and educators, as well) to promote this, we can truly make a difference in our kids’ world for the better.
And as Auggie summed it up perfectly after finally getting recognized by his family and friends for the truly WONDER – ful and amazing young man he is on the inside and outside, too:
“Everyone in the world should get a standing ovation at least once in their life, because we all overcometh the world.”
I, for one, couldn’t agree more, because hope and wonder for this and so much more is what it is all about.
To be a kid again…definitely wish only WONDER – full things for Emma now in school.
And one final note for today ironically enough, I had a kindergarten coffee hour meeting on last Friday morning for all the kindergarten parents in Emma’s school today and after attending that meeting am so very hopeful for all the WONDER – ful things to come for her this year in kindergarten and school!
Also, one of my affiliate partners (Gymboree) is extending the offer to all bloggers and website owners to Join the Gymboree Affiliate Program Today!
They truly have an amazing program for those looking to make a few extra dollars through advertising. So, definitely click the above link and join today!
Robin (Masshole Mommy) says
That sounds like a wonderful book. I have to get a copy and read it myself.
Tracie says
I read this last year and really enjoyed it. Katarina read it as well, and it is one of her favorites. It does a great job of teaching important lessons.
Rosey says
I have seen the acceptance/non-acceptance thing in the schools too. It’s never easy to be on the receiving end of the latter. The book sounds good!
I hope your girls have a WONDER full year too. 🙂
Seana Turner says
I read it and would recommend it as well. It was an eye opening story, and I felt reading it right before the start of school was good timing. Glad to see it is getting so much attention:)
Ginny Marie says
Another teacher that I know also highly recommends Wonder. I really need to read it! Do you think it’s appropriate for my 9 year old to read?
Dara says
I feel like this would be a good book for Gabbie to read.
Bev says
I’ve been meaning to read “Wonder” for awhile now. It sounds like a fantastic book, both for adults and children, especially as a teaching tool for tolerance. I used to work with children on the autism spectrum, so it’s also very important for me to teach Eve about understanding differences as she gets older. Thanks for sharing, Janine!
thedoseofreality says
Am ordering it right this second! Sounds like the perfect book to read with my Emma. Thank you for sharing about it…I had not heard of it before this.-Ashley
Allie says
Very interesting! Loved your take not only as a mom, but former teacher as well. I think it’s great that your school is having an assembly and discussion about the book – awesome!!!!
Bill says
I’ll wait for the movie. LOL Have a great Monday, Janine. Downright chilly here, but heading for ninety. The last gasp of summer is here.
Diane Roark says
Janine,
Bullying is truly a problem today. My heart breaks for all the kids who get bullied. I truly believe that schools and teachers are doing their best to stop it. I just wish parents knew and CARED how their kids acted when they are around other kids. I have noticed that the older a child gets the less parents know about them. Their is definitely a communication problem between parents and kids (teens).
I would totally enjoy this book. Thank you for all you did as a teacher to stop bullying. Thank you for reviewing this book.
Blessings,
Diane Roark
Amanda @ Growing Up Madison says
Sounds like a great book! I’m always looking for new books to read and this may make it to my Kindle list. My library has an ebook lending program as well that I never really checked out and just like you I hope Madison grows up and is treated fairly not only in school but everywhere as well.
Emily says
I have actually been meaning to read “Wonder.” I bought it when I thought my son was going to have to go back to school without hair (from his chemo) and so I had planned for us to read it together. As it happens, hair grows back really fast, but I do still want to read it and will likely read it with my son. Thanks for the review!
Dana says
I LOVED Wonder. What an amazing book. My son is reading it too – I think it’s a great read for middle school and late elementary school.
Carrie Groneman says
Janine, GREAT minds think alike! I love this post and hope to read “Wonder” myself very soon. Thank you for drawing attention to this issue in your wonderful way. Carrie, A Mother’s Shadow
Christy Birmingham says
Thanks for sharing about this book, Janine! It sounds like it has a great message about anti-bullying!
Rabia @TheLiebers says
I’ve seen that book going in and out of my library for a while, but I haven’t picked it up yet. I’m going to get myself on the list now!
Pure Grace Farms says
Thanks for another great review. Isn’t goodreads awesome!
Echo says
Great review! Putting this one on my list!
Kim says
That book sounds amazing. I was a middle school teacher before kids, too and so can relate both as a teacher and especially as a parent. I know there are lots of mean kids out there (sadly) but all I can do is teach my boys not to be one of those kids.
Kristi Campbell says
This book sounds absolutely stunning, Janine! I’d never heard of it and now I can’t wait to read it. Thank you so much for sharing (and I love the photos of the girls!!!).
Jennifer | The Deliberate Mom says
Well, I will definitely have to check out this book after your review. It sounds wonderful. I was bullied (terribly so) from grade 4 – grade 10. As a result, I am committed to ensuring children have emotional safety wherever they are, no matter what they are doing.
Thanks for sharing!
Wishing you a lovely day.
xoxo
Tamara says
Wow. I must read that.
I swear I’ve already seen mean girls and bullies even in preschool. It’s not (yet) about what people look like… I’m sure that part is coming.
Scarlet is so very kind. In fact, I let her say the “F” word over saying “stupid” or “fat.”
Not that I let her say it.. but it’s worse to me if she says the others.
Lisa @ The Meaning of Me says
I did not even know this existed (apparently, I live under a rock) until I saw your post. I’ve just come off of fifteen years in the high school classroom and without even reading, I have a feeling this is something a whole lot of people out there should read. Going to check it out…thanks for the recommendation.
Michelle @ A Dish of Daily Life says
It sounds like a wonderful read. I wonder if any of my kids have read it…I will have to check with them. Definitely a topic that needs to be tackled!
Tara Newman says
I have never heard of this book. Probably because my reading looks like Vampire, Witch, Popular Young Adult, Vampire, Historical Scottish Romance 🙂
lisacng @ expandng.com says
I’ve had quite a few people recommend this book and I’m putting myself on the waitlist for my library. Also just downloaded OverDrive app. I can’t wait to see the bullying was handled in the book and hear what your school is doing with it. Good news for all students. It’s good that the kids can focus on education instead having to worry about bullies.
Aunt Gloria says
So glad to hear bullying is being addressed and young and old are becoming aware of the why’s and wherefore’s of it. I’m afraid we will always have bullies, but raising awareness and offering ways to manage it is so important. And it is also important to accept those who don’t look the way we expect they should. I know you are teaching the girls about differences in people and that gives me hope! This was a lovely review of the book. It sounds like one I would enjoy if I ever got around to reading a book! Love…..
Chris Carter says
Oh this BOOK!!! Cassidy read it last year in fifth grade and couldn’t stop talking about it!! It is definitely on my MUST READ list!! I’m so glad you shared it here to remind me of its value… I must get it ASAP!
The Pinterested Parent says
OK, I think this book sounds fabulous. As you know I have been running into problems explaining to Mai about how people are different & that she cannot point it out. Kids can be cruel & it worries me once she hits school age. I was bullied as a child because of my nationality. It was very painful. I would not my daughter to ever feel that way or inflict that kind of hurt on anyone. This is the best time to stress the importance of these lessons. I am adding this to my must read list. Off to the library.
Brittnei says
Such a good post, Janine! I saw a movie where a girl had the same thing, but she didn’t go to school. People just heard about her and then she decided she wanted surgery before going to school. I think she went as late as this boy. It makes me think of the many things I really want to teach my kids about when they are about Emma’s age or even a little younger since they seem to be much further along than my mom and family say even we were when I was that age. It’s so important for kids to know that some people don’t look a specific way that we are used to and that they are still nothing to be afraid of. Oh! One other thing you mentioned was the stance and reason why the boy Julian was bullying. I feel like sometimes we focus so much on the victim in bullying situations which is totally understandable, but addressing the bully’s issues is equally just as important because many times there is an underlying issue that may not always be as malicious as they actions might seem.
Nellie @ Brooklyn Active Mama says
This sounds like a perfect book to teach children differences! Like you I worry about the aggressiveness of other children towards my child. Thank goodness bullying is way more important NOW than it was in our day.
Pam@over50feeling40 says
Love book recommendations…something bloggers do best. Thanks for sharing with the Thursday Blog hop!
Kenya G. Johnson says
Based on a book Christopher read over the summer, Wonder came up in the section “people who also bought…”. So he and I went to the bookstore so he could sample it. I really wanted him to pick it but don’t want to force books on him. He read a couple pages and said he didn’t think he was ready for it. Maybe later on this year. When he does read it, (he still likes paperbacks), I was going to get it from the digital library and read it at the same time so we could discuss it. I look forward to doing that, especially after your review of the book. Thanks for sharing.
Lauren S. says
Thanks for stopping by the Mommy Needs a Timeout Thursday. Hope to see you this week. Party starts at 8 pm EST on Wednesday night! See you there!
Lauren
Twin Tested, Pin Approved
Nina says
Janine, I read this book too and loved it! So much that I wrote a post inspired by it, about raising kind kids. My kiddo is in TK this year in the big school and I hope that we’ve taught him and continue to teach him how to be kind, to defend others, to be friends, that it’s okay to be curious but never mean. I highly recommend it too!