Wonder - by R.J.Palacio
August Pullman- (Auggie to his parents and sister) is a ten year old boy. Like any other kid his age, he likes playing on his x-box, eating ice creams and watching starwars. He is a great child with a cool sense of humour. But all his life, Auggie has had to deal with people staring at him, kids running away from him and sometimes just averting their eyes from him. The reason ? Auggie was born with severe facial malformations- a condition called "Mandibulofacial Dysostosis". Not many people know the real Auggie simply because he has never been given the chance to be him. He is just ignored most of the time.
August gets homeschooled by his mom when he is young because he has to undergo various medical procedures. When he turns 10, his parents decide to enroll him in a school. The book "wonder" follows Auggie's journey from the first day of fifth grade to the last day of fifth grade.
So, now that you know what the book is about, I'm sure you are wondering if you want to read this book which deals with such a strong and difficult subject. I will have to confess- so did I. But trust me, just read this book.Go on this journey with August. I laughed and cried with him and admired his quiet strength all through. So, stick with Auggie till the very end and you will end up loving him.
R.J.Palacio's writing is so simple and beautiful. All the characters are so well rounded and real. Narrated by August, this book is sad, moving, frank, funny and an absolute delight to read. All in all, a well written book.
This book is listed as a young adult book. But, I feel we all need to read it irrespective of our age.It teaches us a thing or two about life and gives us a lesson in empathy. Personally, this book showed me that life though difficult at times, is worth living to the fullest. We need to give ourselves a chance at life and not be disheartened. I was reminded of this quote I read-
“Life may deal you a bad hand or take away a good hand you were already dealt. The way you play the hand is how your life is defined. Just like in poker you can end up winning no matter how bad the cards are you have.”― Benjamin Bayani, The Nation.
Until the next book, happy reading guys...
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