Meet Auggie Pullman. Star Wars fan, dreamer, joker, and first-time Middle Schooler. As ordinary as Auggie feels, he knows that he is different. People treat him differently, people look at him differently (if they look at him at all). Born with severe facial abnormalities, Auggie will always stand out in a crowd. Even after countless operations, his face is malformed enough to induce curiosity, horror, and pity in the strangers around him. And now, it has been decided that he will leave his safe home-schooling routine, and enter Beecher Prep Middle School.
Anyone who has ever been to school can probably guess what happens next. However, despite the stares, whispers, and gasps, Auggie makes a friend. Then two. And, slowly but surely, the bright spark that is Auggie’s humour, bravery, and intelligence shines bright enough for the whole grade to see, as his schoolmates learn that ‘ugly’ is only skin deep.
This is a beautiful story which will stay with you long after turning the final page. Narrated by Auggie, his sister Via, his friends Jack and Summer, and other complex and sympathetic characters, Wonder tackles a tough subject with sensitivity and warmth. Similar to The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-time, this book will be enjoyed by adults and younger audiences alike, and reminds us of the value of kindness, understanding, and acceptance.
