Book Summary – Wonder

Book Summary – Wonder

“Wonder” is a book by R.J. Palacio about August Pullman, a 10-year-old boy born with a rare facial difference. The book is divided into eight parts, each narrated by a different character, including August, his sister Via, and his school friends like Jack Will and Summer. The book follows August’s journey as he starts school for the first time, makes friends, faces bullying, and finds strength in himself and others.

The book explores themes of empathy, acceptance, friendship, and self-esteem. August is a captivating and inspiring character, and the book is an emotional reflection on what it means to be different in a society that values conformity. “Wonder” is a powerful book that teaches an important message of kindness and compassion, and is an essential read for people of all ages.

Book Summary – Wonder

When was it first published and by whom?

“Wonder” was first published in February 2012. The book was written by R.J. Palacio, which is a pseudonym for the author Raquel Jaramillo. The book was published by Random House Children’s Books in the United States, and by Intrínseca in Brazil. Since then, “Wonder” has become a global bestseller, selling millions of copies worldwide and being translated into over 50 languages.

 

Curiosities

1. R.J. Palacio is a pseudonym. The author’s real name is Raquel Jaramillo.
2. The book was inspired by a real-life experience of the author. In an interview, Palacio revealed that the inspiration for the book came from an experience she had with her 3-year-old son at an ice cream shop. Her son saw a child with a facial difference and began to cry. From there, Palacio began to imagine what it would be like to be that child, and the idea for the book was born.
3. The book was a critical and commercial success. It has been translated into over 50 languages and has sold over 6 million copies worldwide.
4. “Wonder” was adapted into a film in 2017, with Jacob Tremblay playing the role of August Pullman. The film also starred Julia Roberts and Owen Wilson as August’s parents.
5. Palacio wrote a related book titled “Auggie & Me: Three Wonder Stories”, which tells the stories of three secondary characters from the original book.
6. The book has been used as a teaching tool in many schools around the world, particularly to teach empathy and tolerance.
7. In 2014, Palacio was honored by the school her son attended with a graduation ceremony that included a copy of “Wonder” in each graduate’s goodie bag.
8. The central message of the book is based on the famous quote by Plato: “Be kind, for everyone you meet is fighting a hard battle.”