Summary

Wonder, a 2012 novel (and a 2017 film) originally written by R.J. Palacio, follows the story of Auggie (August) Pullman, a seemingly ordinary kid who’s making the transition from home-schooling to a middle school. While a transition of this nature would be difficult for any kid, it turns out that Auggie is actually rather extraordinary. He suffers from a condition known as mandibulofacial dysostosis, which leaves him with a distinct facial deformity that makes his appearance quite jarring, especially to kids who may not know how to deal with differences.

Each chapter of the story is told from a different perspective, beginning with Auggie’s thoughts on going to a new school, before transitioning to his sister, who we eventually find out has been impacted by Auggie’s condition in ways of her own. Auggie’s friends get opportunities to share their own struggles and by shifting from one perspective to another, the reader is reminded that beneath the surface, perhaps all people are extraordinary in ways of their own. 

Major Themes

• Belonging and Identity — Auggie has an obvious facial condition that sets him apart from his peers, and the subsequent taunts and jokes that he faces from others are a reminder of what it means to visually not fit into a group. The behaviors of middle schoolers, while perhaps more openly cruel, reflect themes that exist in society at large. 

• Impacts of Discrimination — It’s not only Auggie that’s impacted by his difference. His sister and his friends are all impacted by extension. His sister is always known by her relationship to him, and she relishes the opportunity to be unknown, or “normal” when she goes to high school. One of Auggie’s friends faces taunts from other kids for being friends with Auggie, and this friend ultimately is faced with difficult decisions on how to choose kindness.

• Parenting — Auggie’s mother and father are seen early on in the novel debating on whether or not to send Auggie to school. On the topic of bringing up kids, Andrew Solomon, writer and Professor of Clinical Psychology says: “I want my children to be happy and I love them most achingly when they are sad...I can teach them to own what is wrong in their lives, but if I succeed in sheltering them from adversity, I will have failed as a parent.” Wonder explores the role of parents as both protectors and teachers, as well as the delicate balance between the two.

After exploring the themes and summary of Wonder, take the opportunity to discuss this book with your tutor. 

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