Wonder is a novel by R. J. Palacio published in 2012, which has since been adapted into a 2017 coming-of-age film. It follows the story of a young boy, August (Auggie), as he transitions from a homeschooled environment into his first year of middle school in New York City. Auggie, on most fronts, is like any ten-year-old boy. He likes Star Wars, is active and talkative, and is eager to make friends. That said, Auggie also happens to have mandibulofacial dysostosis, a facial deformity that leaves him looking quite different from other kids.

While transitioning from homeschool to prep school at ten years of age would be hard for any pre-teen, Auggie’s parents are particularly concerned about him, knowing how other kids might react to his facial deformity. Wonder follows the story of Auggie’s first year at school, through his perspective, the perspective of his friends, as well as of his sister, who is sometimes overshadowed by Auggie.

The story begins with Auggie’s visit to his new school, where he meets the principal and a few carefully-vetted kids that show him around the campus. Even among the group of students, however, Auggie already runs into a few comments that feel like taunts, foreshadowing the school year to come. 

Despite the bullying, however, Auggie’s ability to socialize makes him some allies, one of whom he meets early on and trusts to be a reliable friend. However, during a school-organized Halloween event where all of the students are masked (and Auggie basks in the comfort of being able to hide himself from others), Auggie discovers something devastating, and realizes that one of his friendships might not be everything he thought it to be.

Ultimately, Wonder tells a story that’s relatable to all. For many, it brings back memories of a middle school age gone by, a time that is uniquely challenging. The story feels honest and wholesome, bringing up questions of what it means to belong. It is also a reminder of how unrestrained human nature may lead to cruelty and encourages its readers to think about when they, too, might’ve felt like Auggie within their own world.

Editor’s Note: If you want to learn more about Wonder, click here to check out another book review.