Wonder what Zeeba’s been reading

So this week I read a book called Wonder by R J Palacio.

I’m usually a bit wary about books that talk about a child with a birth defect since they usually make a spectacle of the child or make them the victim to reel in readers who then sympathize, but never fully understand the character. So I picked up this book how I imagine a dog would pick up an iffy-looking stick. But everything about this book was breath-taking.

It is about a young boy who was born with severe facial defects, who after being home schooled for most his life, decides wants to attend a real school. There he meets friends and some “villains”. He wants to win them over by showing he’s not what he looks like but a normal boy who loves his X Box and everything all little boys like. What amazed me was the author’s ability to tell this story without making it too complicated for kids while keeping the tone warm and endearing for adults at the same time.

The prose was amazing because it keeps it very simple for children to read and the speed fast to keep their attention. However, the message in the book of fighting through adversity and the strength of those around oneself giving one the strength to face anything is one that would be relatable to adults as well.

The narration style also makes this book a gorgeous read. Taking a page out of Jodi Picoult’s books, Wonder uses various narrations through its many characters, making it easier for the reader to get a lot of different perspectives on the same topic. It also keeps the narration fresh.

My favorite part of this book remains the ending. Not going to spoil it for anyone, but suffice to say it does not resort to cliché endings of grand gestures or sickly sweet morals that make it predictable.

Like the lead character Auggie, this book is heart warming, fresh and uplifting. I would definitely recommend it to kids and adults alike. – Zeeba