There are not many books out there that openly talk about serious conditions such as facial deformity. Wonder is a story about a 10-year-old boy named August Pullman who was born with a condition called facial deformity. The story begins with August Pullman starting fifth grade and he is attending a public elementary school for the first time.

“Whatever you’re thinking, it’s probably worse” the book opens up with Auggie explaining his face to the audience. He is used to the stares and mean comments people make about him, but is still terrified to learn he will be going to a middle school for the first time in his life.

The thing is Auggie is an ordinary kid with just a not so ordinary face. Throughout the story, he has to convince his classmates he is just like them, even if he looks different. August had been homeschooled his whole life due to his tough surgery schedule. By the time he turns ten, his mother (Isabel Pullman) and his father (Nate Pullman) believe it is time for him to experience the real world and go into a public school.

There were no signs of a welcoming community as Auggie sat at lunch everyday by himself. Out of nowhere, a couple of nice kids named Jack and Summer came up to Auggie and striked up a conversation. Jack’s loyalty to his friendship to Auggie was put to the test because of his difference in appearance and the feeling that he needs to be popular but the two end up being best friends.

While I read this story, I felt teary-eyed and inspired as Auggie’s story in middle school unfolded. I believe that every kid should be required to read this book in school and learn more about face deformities. This book will be hitting the big screens on November 17, 2017 and you can experience Wonder through motion pictures.

RJ Palacio wrote a inspiring and uplifting book that had readers through a whirl of emotions. Along with the book displaying realistic situations, Wonder is a feel-good book and is great for readers and kids at all ages.