Wonder is about a boy named August who was born with extreme facial deformity. The book is about his first year going to school because he had been home-schooled his whole life. He is in the 5th grade. This book is well written. It made me laugh and it made me cry by page 87. The funny thing is I didn't cry over Aggie as much as I did some of the other characters. The themes of not judging others and of always being kind are weaved throughout the book. The author doesn't give explanations for all poor behavior but in reading through the book there are characters you think are mean or selfish that you realize had reasons for their behavior. It reminds me how hard middle school and high school can be, even when you look normal. It reminded me that while there are truly mean and bitter people around, most people are kind-hearted and do want to do what is right, they just sometimes don't know how to or are afraid to step out from the crowd and be that person to say something.
One of my favorite quotes from the book was given by the director of the school to the 5th and 6th graders who were graduating. He gives a quote by J.M. Barrie that is found in 'The Little Bird.' It says, 'Shall we make a new rule of life...always to try to be a little kinder than is necessary?' He then speaks of a quote from Christopher Nolon in, 'Under the Eye of the Clock.' In this quote a boy named Joseph realized he can recognize the face of God in those who showed him kindness and caring. The school director goes on to say this to his students.
"If every single person in this room made it a rule that wherever you are, whenever you can, you will try to act a little kinder than is necessary--the world really would be a better place. And if you do this, if you act just a little kinder than is necessary, someone else, somewhere, someday, may recognize in you, in every single one of you, the face of God."
If you're looking for a great book--this is one to read.
